Do you feel like your home is sticky or damp, even when the AC is running, especially during humid summers in Canada? This happens mainly due to an increase in the humidity level. Though it seems harmless at first, you may experience the effect on your comfort, health, and even your home in the long run. This is why investing in the right whole-home dehumidifier is crucial for long-term comfort, health, and home protection.
Natural Resources Canada recommends choosing ENERGY STAR certified dehumidifiers, which meet strict energy efficiency and performance standards for improved indoor air quality and lower energy costs. Unlike portable units, a whole-home dehumidifier works quietly in the background to consistently maintain optimal humidity levels throughout your home.
Since there are so many portable options available, selecting the right dehumidifier can feel confusing. This buying guide provides you with all the necessary information, such as the right size, crucial features, energy efficiency, and cost, so you can enjoy clean air every day. Let’s get started!
How Do Dehumidifiers Work?
A dehumidifier reduces the level of water vapour in indoor air by removing excess moisture and maintaining a comfortable humidity level. Whole-home dehumidifiers work efficiently with your HVAC system to control moisture throughout your home and reduce the need for manual intervention.
Here is how a whole-home dehumidifier manages indoor humidity step by step.
- Hot, humid air is drawn into the dehumidifier through the return ducts.
- The air passes over cooled coils, causing moisture to condense into water
- Collected moisture is drained away through a condensate line
- Drier air is reheated to room temperature before being redistributed.
- The system continuously monitors humidity levels and adjusts automatically.
Signs You Need a Dehumidifier
Many homes in Canada have hidden excess moisture that residents may not even notice. Spotting the early signs can help avoid costly repairs and reduce health concerns. Here are common signs that indicate you may need a dehumidifier to maintain a comfortable and healthy indoor environment.
- Damp or musty odors that persist in rooms, closets, or basements indicate hidden moisture and possible mold growth.
- Mold or mildew stains that appear on walls, ceilings, furniture, and bathroom tiles are mostly caused by high humidity.
- When condensation forms on windows or other glass surfaces, especially during the warmer months, it is a sign of excess moisture in the air.
- If paint on the walls is peeling, wallpaper is bubbling, or wood is warped, these are clear signs that indoor humidity is negatively affecting your home’s structure.
- Allergy symptoms may worsen, and breathing can become more difficult due to dust mites and mold that thrive in humid environments.
Benefits of Dehumidifiers
High humidity can lead to health issues, discomfort, and damage to the building. This makes installing a dehumidifier a smart investment for any indoor space, including homes and offices, to maintain comfort and protect health. Some of the common benefits of using a dehumidifier are listed below.
Improves Indoor Air Quality: When excess moisture is removed, the growth of mold and bacteria is limited. Therefore, the air becomes cleaner and fresher, especially for people who are allergic to airborne contaminants.
Enhances Comfort Levels: Air with high humidity often feels warm and sticky. A dehumidifier removes excess moisture, making a room feel fresher and more comfortable while reducing the need for heavy air conditioning.
Protects Home Structure: Excess humidity can damage walls, ceilings, wooden furniture, and floors. A dehumidifier helps prevent warping and long-term structural damage.
Prevents Musty Odors: Damp areas often develop unpleasant smells from mold and mildew growth. Dehumidifiers keep indoor spaces dry and fresh, which is especially useful in humid Canadian climates.
How to Choose the Right Dehumidifier?
Before selecting a whole-home dehumidifier, consider your home’s size, the local climate, and any specific moisture problems you may have. Taking these factors into account ensures you choose a dehumidifier that works efficiently and provides long-term value.
Size and Capacity of the Home – The capacity of a dehumidifier is measured by how much moisture it can remove per day, i.e., quarts. If you live in a humid area or have a larger house, you need a system with higher capacity. Choosing a small unit in such a case may waste energy and leave your home still damp. So, choose a unit with the appropriate size and capacity to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency.
Humidity and Climate of the Area – Homes near the coast or in areas with high humidity require dehumidifiers with higher capacity and efficiency. Consider seasonal weather changes and humidity fluctuations to select a system that can handle your home’s typical moisture levels.
Integration with HVAC System – A whole-home dehumidifier should work well with your current HVAC system. Properly designed ductwork assures even airflow throughout the house and helps your system run efficiently without putting too much strain on it.
Noise Level – Whole-home dehumidifiers are generally quieter than portable units. But sound levels are still important, especially if the device is close to where people live. Search for models designed to work quietly so they won’t disturb daily activities.
Maintenance Requirements – Regular maintenance is important to keep your system running in good condition. Choosing units that provide easy access to filters and components simplifies routine maintenance. Regular filter changes, cleaning, and annual inspections help extend the lifespan of your dehumidifier and maintain optimal performance.
Additional Features to Consider – With the advancement of technologies, dehumidifiers now come with advanced features such as smart control, automatic sensors, and energy-saving modes. Consider these features alongside the essential ones based on your budget and specific needs.
Get Indoor Air Quality Services
Are high humidity levels quietly affecting your comfort, health, and home? Now is the perfect time to install a whole-home dehumidifier and solve the problems caused by excess humidity.
Infiniti Home Comfort is a highly rated company providing professional indoor air quality services. With guidance from a professional, you can select the ideal dehumidifier to make your home comfortable and healthy for the entire family. Enquire now to get started!
