Where to place a dehumidifier in crawl space?
In many homes, crawl spaces serve as storage areas, as well as providing access to plumbing and electrical systems. However, they can also be prone to high humidity, which can lead to a host of issues, including mold, mildew, and structural damage. Here, we'll explore the best places to place your dehumidifier to keep your home healthier. Let's dive in!
The Importance of Dehumidifiers
Before we dive into placement strategies, let's first understand why dehumidifiers are essential for crawl spaces. High humidity levels in crawl spaces can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, leading to structural damage and potential health issues. Dehumidifiers help maintain the right humidity levels, preserving the integrity of your home and creating a healthier environment.
The optimal humidity level for a crawl space is typically between 50% and 60%. Anything lower (40%) is too dry and higher (65% +) is too damp. Keeping your crawl space within this ideal humidity range helps prevent issues such as mold and structural damage and ensures a healthier environment.
There are a few things to keep in mind when placing a dehumidifier, such as:
Level: Make sure the dehumidifier is installed in a level location, preferably at least 4 to 6 inches above crawlspace ground level.
Placement: Position the dehumidifier at the center of the space, ensuring a supply to each of the end zones.
Drainage: Elevate the dehumidifier one to two feet above the floor and route the hose to a drain at floor level.
Ventilation: Regardless of its power, a dehumidifier will not be effective in a vented space.
Sealing: Prior to attempting dehumidification, install a crawl space sump pump if there is ever standing water in the area.
Obstructions: Keep the dehumidifier away from obstructions like walls or obstacles that could limit airflow.
Choosing the Right Crawl Space Dehumidifier
When selecting a dehumidifier, it's crucial to take into account both the dimensions of your home and the dehumidifier's extraction capacity. Use these calculations to determine capacity:
●500 square feet or less: A small dehumidifier with a 10-pint capacity
●Over 500 square feet: Add 4 pints of capacity for every additional 500 square feet
●1,500 square foot area: A 30-pint model will likely be large enough
●2,000 square foot area: A 50-pint model should be sufficient
●500-1,500 sq. ft. room: A 34–40-pint capacity dehumidifier
●1,000–2,500 sq. ft.: A 40–60-pint capacity dehumidifier
The Importance of Dehumidifiers
Before we dive into placement strategies, let's first understand why dehumidifiers are essential for crawl spaces. High humidity levels in crawl spaces can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, leading to structural damage and potential health issues. Dehumidifiers help maintain the right humidity levels, preserving the integrity of your home and creating a healthier environment.
The optimal humidity level for a crawl space is typically between 50% and 60%. Anything lower (40%) is too dry and higher (65% +) is too damp. Keeping your crawl space within this ideal humidity range helps prevent issues such as mold and structural damage and ensures a healthier environment.
There are a few things to keep in mind when placing a dehumidifier, such as:
Level: Make sure the dehumidifier is installed in a level location, preferably at least 4 to 6 inches above crawlspace ground level.
Placement: Position the dehumidifier at the center of the space, ensuring a supply to each of the end zones.
Drainage: Elevate the dehumidifier one to two feet above the floor and route the hose to a drain at floor level.
Ventilation: Regardless of its power, a dehumidifier will not be effective in a vented space.
Sealing: Prior to attempting dehumidification, install a crawl space sump pump if there is ever standing water in the area.
Obstructions: Keep the dehumidifier away from obstructions like walls or obstacles that could limit airflow.
Choosing the Right Crawl Space Dehumidifier
When selecting a dehumidifier, it's crucial to take into account both the dimensions of your home and the dehumidifier's extraction capacity. Use these calculations to determine capacity:
●500 square feet or less: A small dehumidifier with a 10-pint capacity
●Over 500 square feet: Add 4 pints of capacity for every additional 500 square feet
●1,500 square foot area: A 30-pint model will likely be large enough
●2,000 square foot area: A 50-pint model should be sufficient
●500-1,500 sq. ft. room: A 34–40-pint capacity dehumidifier
●1,000–2,500 sq. ft.: A 40–60-pint capacity dehumidifier
Ideal Locations for Dehumidifiers
Method 1: Hanging from JoistsOne effective way to position your dehumidifier is by hanging it from the floor joists. This method frees up floor space and prevents damage from potential flooding. By keeping the dehumidifier off the ground, you reduce the chances of electrical components coming into contact with moisture, which can enhance safety within the crawl space.
Method 2: Placing on the GroundPlacing your dehumidifier on the ground is another practical choice. Be sure to elevate it slightly on a platform or bricks to avoid moisture contact. Placing the dehumidifier on the ground provides easy access for setup and maintenance. You don't need to reach up to hang it from the joists, which can be beneficial, especially if you have physical constraints or limited crawl space height.
Method 3: Attaching to WallsAttaching the dehumidifier to the crawl space walls is a space-saving option. Wall-mounted dehumidifiers are less obtrusive and can be visually pleasing, especially if your crawl space is used for storage or as an access point to your home's utilities. They blend well with the space's overall aesthetics.
Monitoring & Maintenance
Measuring moisture in a crawl space can be done using various methods and tools. Here are some common ways to assess the moisture levels:
Hygrometer: A hygrometer is a device that measures humidity levels in the air (purchased at Walmart, Amazon, or Industrial supply stores). When assessing your crawl space's relative humidity, consider using a digital hygrometer. For accurate readings, be sure to place it at various locations.
Thermal Imaging: Infrared thermal imaging cameras offer a unique perspective by identifying areas of moisture through temperature variations. Areas with higher moisture content may appear cooler on the camera's screen, making this method exceptionally valuable for pinpointing potential trouble spots.
Visual Inspection: Sometimes, a simple visual inspection can provide valuable insights into moisture concerns. Look for visual cues such as condensation, standing water, dampness, or water stains on surfaces within your crawl space. These observable signs can offer early indications of moisture-related issues.
Ideal Locations for Dehumidifiers
Method 1: Hanging from JoistsOne effective way to position your dehumidifier is by hanging it from the floor joists. This method frees up floor space and prevents damage from potential flooding. By keeping the dehumidifier off the ground, you reduce the chances of electrical components coming into contact with moisture, which can enhance safety within the crawl space.
Method 2: Placing on the GroundPlacing your dehumidifier on the ground is another practical choice. Be sure to elevate it slightly on a platform or bricks to avoid moisture contact. Placing the dehumidifier on the ground provides easy access for setup and maintenance. You don't need to reach up to hang it from the joists, which can be beneficial, especially if you have physical constraints or limited crawl space height.
Method 3: Attaching to WallsAttaching the dehumidifier to the crawl space walls is a space-saving option. Wall-mounted dehumidifiers are less obtrusive and can be visually pleasing, especially if your crawl space is used for storage or as an access point to your home's utilities. They blend well with the space's overall aesthetics.
Monitoring & Maintenance
Measuring moisture in a crawl space can be done using various methods and tools. Here are some common ways to assess the moisture levels:
Hygrometer: A hygrometer is a device that measures humidity levels in the air (purchased at Walmart, Amazon, or Industrial supply stores). When assessing your crawl space's relative humidity, consider using a digital hygrometer. For accurate readings, be sure to place it at various locations.
Thermal Imaging: Infrared thermal imaging cameras offer a unique perspective by identifying areas of moisture through temperature variations. Areas with higher moisture content may appear cooler on the camera's screen, making this method exceptionally valuable for pinpointing potential trouble spots.
Visual Inspection: Sometimes, a simple visual inspection can provide valuable insights into moisture concerns. Look for visual cues such as condensation, standing water, dampness, or water stains on surfaces within your crawl space. These observable signs can offer early indications of moisture-related issues.
By meticulously evaluating important aspects such as the overall volume of your crawl space, prevailing levels of humidity, and how easily you can access the area, you will be well-equipped to make a sound decision regarding the optimal location for your dehumidifier. This process goes beyond just choosing a spot that's most convenient. Instead, it's about ensuring that your expenditure on a dehumidifier truly pays off by effectively serving its main purpose - to control and reduce humidity levels, thereby creating a healthier and more comfortable living environment.