A dehumidifier is a great way to remove excess moisture from the air in your basement. It can help prevent mold and mildew, as well as save you money on heating and cooling bills.
But how often should you run the unit in basement? The answer depends on many factors including humidity levels, ventilation rates, room size, etc.
In this article, we will discuss all these factors so that you can figure out when to turn on or turn off your dehumidifier.
How Often To Run Dehumidifier in Basement?
If the basement has high humidity levels and doesn't have good air circulation then you should run the dehumidifier 24 hours a day.
For basements with moderate humidity levels, you should run the dehumidifier for 12 to 16 hours, but not longer than 18 hours.
If the basement has low humidity and good air circulation then you can just turn it on when needed (at least once per week).
For new basements, the humidity levels will be low for a while--until it's been lived in and there have been some leaks. After about 12 weeks of use you'll know what to do more specifically with your dehumidifier.
In high-temperature climates or during very humid times of year, turn on the unit when it's needed and leave it on for 12 to 16 hours.
If the basement has high humidity levels but is well ventilated, you should run the dehumidifier about half of the time. In low-temperature climates or during very dry times of the year, turn on the unit when necessary and keep it on for about 12 hours.
In the winter, turn off your dehumidifier if you're going to be away from home for more than a day or so. That way there's no need to worry about forgetting and leaving it running all that time when you come back.
How Often Should I Run A Dehumidifier in an Unfinished Basement?
If your basement is unfinished and has a finished hardwood floor then don't run the dehumidifier at all. It can cause problems with tannic acid crystals from wood products getting tracked into the house.
In an unfinished basement with a dirt floor, you can run the dehumidifier for up to 18 hours without worry.
Make sure to change your filter every 12 months and have it professionally cleaned about once per year. That's one of the best ways to keep it running efficiently and effectively.
Final Words
Running a dehumidifier is the most effective way to get rid of mold buildups caused by excess moisture in the basement. However, you should better learn more about how often to run the unit to save your money while maintaining the efficiency of the dehumidifier.
Remember to change dehumidifier’s filter regularly, at least once per year to make sure your dehumidifier runs smoothly and efficiently, as well as protect your health from dust and mold accumulation on the old filter.
