Yes, dehumidifiers naturally generate a small amount of heat when they run. However, most customers don't notice because the added heat is very small and the dehumidifier removes moisture from the room, so it naturally makes the room feel cooler and more comfortable.
A crawl space dehumidifier releases a small amount of heat during the process of removing moisture from the humid air. But you can barely notice this heat in many cases.
Let’s find out how dehumidifiers work, why they give off heat, and when you should start worrying about it.
Do Dehumidifiers Cool or Heat a Room?
Like other appliances, dehumidifiers add a small amount of heat to the room while removing moisture. But you'll make it feel hot, and knowing how dehumidifiers work, I think you'll understand.
Crawl space dehumidifiers with hoses first use a fan to draw in warm, humid air from the surrounding area, passing the warm air through cold coils. These coils are filled with a refrigerant that cools them by absorbing heat. 3.
When the warm, humid air meets the cold coils, the moisture condenses into water droplets. Warm air contains more moisture than cold air, so when the temperature drops below the dew point, the moisture turns to water.
The water droplets collect in the tank or drain through a hose. The dehumidified air is reheated with the help of warm air coils or fans. The dry air is then released back into the environment. The cycle continues.
Because the dehumidifier will release the reheated air back into the air, there will be some heat, but that heat won't make you feel uncomfortable, rather it will make you feel cooler.
If you feel unusually high temperatures, you may have chosen the wrong unit, neglected maintenance, or used it incorrectly.
Why Does a Dehumidifier Give Off Heat?
There are two scenarios one where it is normal for the dehumidifier to release a little heat as well. Warm airflow from under or behind the dehumidifier is normal and part of the dehumidification process, as long as the unit draws moisture from the dehumidifier.
During the dehumidification process, the compressor generates heat. To avoid overheating the compressor, hot air is drawn in and out of the compressor at a faster rate.
Another scenario is using a dehumidifier for a long period of time but lacking regular maintenance or the dehumidifier's capacity is not correctly sized for the space.
Without regular cleaning of the dehumidifier coils, the coils become dirty and clogged. This reduces the efficiency of the unit so that it has to work harder, thus increasing the heat in the room.
Choosing the wrong device can lead to increased heat. For example, if you choose a small portable dehumidifier for your basement, it will need to run continuously for a long time. This will generate more heat without effectively removing moisture. Similarly, if you use a commercial-grade dehumidifier in your bedroom, it can make the room too hot.
Related reading: Can I Use a Regular Dehumidifier in a Crawl Space?
How Much Heat Does a Dehumidifier Give Off?
A properly functioning refrigerated dehumidifier will typically cause the temperature of the supply or exhaust air to be 15 - 25° higher than the temperature of the incoming air, depending on the load the dehumidifier is required to carry.
For example, if your room temperature is about 100°F, the dehumidifier's discharge air temperature may be 115°F. This is a secondary benefit that can make you feel warmer.
By removing excess moisture from the air, dehumidifiers can help raise the perceived temperature of your home and protect it from the damaging effects of high humidity. However, it does not replace the need for a heater in very cold conditions.
While these devices can be used as a secondary heat source, in very cold conditions you will need a separate primary heat source. In some cases, however, you do not need a separate heat source.
How to Stop a Dehumidifier from Blowing Hot Air?
Here are the things you should keep in mind if you want to stop your dehumidifier from blowing hot air:
Choose the Right Unit
You need to choose the right devices that best suit your room conditions. Typically, a small portable dehumidifier works best for a bedroom. These dehumidifiers add a barely noticeable amount of heat to your room. A whole house dehumidifier is more effective because it’s away from your room, and heat is distributed evenly throughout your home, so you won’t feel it at all.
Place the Device Properly
Keep your unit in a place with good air circulation. Don’t place it in corners or near objects that obstruct airflow. The ideal location is a central area.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Proper ventilation is key for better dehumidification. It improves the efficiency of your unit. It helps if you open your door or window for some time.
Regular Maintenance
Lack of regular maintenance reduces the efficiency of the dehumidifier. And it can lead to adding heat to your room.
Here is what you need to do:
- Empty the tank regularly if you’re using a dehumidifier with automatic drain. Regularly check and clean the dehumidifier coils.
- Check the water drainage system if your unit features a continuous drainage option.
- Regularly monitor and adjust the device's humidity settings.
- Keep the dehumidifier surroundings clean.
Following these steps, you can keep your unit in the best condition and get the best results. Also, it extends its lifespan while improving overall efficiency.
Conclusion
Now you know that a dehumidifier removes humidity by cooling and reheating the air. In this process, it gives off a small amount of heat. How much heat you’ll feel depends on the type of dehumidifier and your home’s conditions.
In normal conditions, using a dehumidifier can make you feel warmer in winter, and you may not need additional heating. However, in harsher conditions, you will need a primary heating source, such as a heater.
If you’re unsure how to choose the best dehumidifier for your room, you can contact us right now. At Aloraircrawlspace, our dedicated team helps our valued visitors and customers like yourself find the best solutions for their needs.
