Humidifier Reviews

Dehumidifiers: Types of Dehumidifiers

What is a Dehumidifier?
 
A dehumidifier is an appliance used to lower the humidity in a room. It does the opposite of a humidifier, which raises the humidity. Reducing the humidity level in the air is sometimes needed as excessive moisture in the air can cause mold and mildew which are harmful to health. High humidity also makes people feel hotter than it really is, and laundry takes much longer to dry.
 
All this is because the level of humidity in the air determines how fast or slow water will evaporate. If there is plenty of water vapor locked in the air (like in high humidity), the air can no longer take more water in so any liquid present in the area cannot evaporate, or evaporates very slowly. On the other hand, if there is less water vapor in the air (low humidity), the air seems to suck in the water in the environment, so things like sweat or laundered clothes dry up fast.
 
With a dehumidifier, you can artificially reduce the amount of water vapor in the air to bring the humidity to a more desirable level.
 
Types of Dehumidifiers
 
Heat Pump Dehumidifiers (the Refrigerator types) – This type of dehumidifier has a fan and two coils, one cold and another warm. First the fan draws the air over the cold coil. The sudden drop in temperature causes the water vapor to condense (I.e. turn into water drops). The water is then gathered into a container and is heated by the warm coil and then released at room temperature. This type of dehumidifier is one of the most commonly used.
 
Chemical Absorbent Dehumidifiers (Dessicant types) – Chemicals are used in this type of dehumidifier. Air is drawn in and treated by a substance known as a dessicant, which has the effect of reducing water vapor in the air. The air is then re-released at lower humidity. Chemical-based dehumidifiers are preferred in industrial use rather than home use.
 
Air Conditioners – An air-conditioning unit works as a dehumidifier too. As these appliances cool the air, they also manage the water it produces and then exhaust it outside.
 
No matter what type of dehumidifier you use, it is important to clean and maintain it as per the instructions for it. Dehumidifiers are important in controlling the moisture in the air to keep people healthy and comfortable. Use them properly.