Why Every Home in Indiana Needs a Dehumidifier: How To Determine The Right Size Based On Your Needs

As we all know, living in Indiana means you’re going to see a wide variety of weather conditions, from hot and humid summers to cold, snowy winters. Sometimes spring drags on forever and sometimes we skip fall all together. Because of the humidity here,  homeowners in and around Indianapolis can have difficulty maintaining indoor air quality and comfort can be a challenge. One essential tool in your HVAC arsenal is a dehumidifier. But why exactly do homes in Indiana need a dehumidifier, and how do you choose the right size for your home? Let’s talk about it.

Why Homes in Indiana Need a Dehumidifier

1. Combat High Humidity Levels Indiana’s summer weather can be notoriously humid. High humidity levels can lead to a slew of problems, including mold growth, dust mites, and just overall discomfort. A dehumidifier helps maintain optimal indoor humidity levels, making your home more comfortable and healthier for you, your family, and your pets.
2. Prevent Mold and Mildew Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments. High humidity can cause condensation on walls, windows, and other surfaces, creating the perfect breeding ground for mold. Using a dehumidifier can significantly reduce the risk of mold and mildew, protecting both your health and your home’s structural integrity. You may have noticed this if you’ve ever been in your basement and noticed that it smells funky or feels humid or moist.
3. Improve Air Quality Poor indoor air quality can aggravate allergies and respiratory issues. By reducing excess moisture, a dehumidifier helps keep allergens like dust mites at bay, leading to cleaner and healthier air. We all want to be comfortable and safe in our own homes.
4. Protect Your Home and Belongings High humidity can damage wooden furniture, flooring, and other household items. It can also cause paint to peel and wallpaper to bubble. A dehumidifier helps protect your home and belongings from moisture-related damage.

Choosing the Right Size Dehumidifier for Your Home

When selecting a dehumidifier, it’s crucial to choose the right size to ensure it can effectively handle the moisture levels in your home. Dehumidifier capacity is measured in pints of moisture removed per day. Here’s a quick guide to help you determine the right size for your needs:

Assess the Area’s Square Footage Measure the area where you plan to use the dehumidifier. This will help you determine the capacity required. For instance:

-500 sq. ft. or less: 10-pint dehumidifier

-500-1,000 sq. ft.: 20-pint dehumidifier

-1,000-1,500 sq. ft.: 30-pint dehumidifier

-1,500-2,000 sq. ft.: 40-pint dehumidifier

-2,000-2,500 sq. ft.: 50-pint dehumidifier

Consider the Humidity Level If the area is particularly damp or has high humidity levels (e.g., a basement), you may need a larger capacity dehumidifier. For very wet areas, consider adding 10-20 pints to the above recommendations.
Factor in Special Conditions If your home has large windows, poor insulation, or is in a flood-prone area, you might need a more powerful dehumidifier. Homes with multiple occupants or pets can also benefit from higher capacity units due to increased moisture from activities like cooking, showering, and breathing.

Of course, if you don’t want to deal with walking off your square footage or trying to determine what size is right for your home, you can always just call us here at Homesense and we’re happy to provide a free quote. Also, don’t forget that we’ve grown our business by taking great care of customers, especially in niche areas like Irvington, Meridian Kessler, Broad Ripple, Carmel, Zionsville, Fishers, and all around Indianapolis so we’re used to a variety of different construction methods and home styles.

Additional Tips for Optimal Dehumidifier Performance

• Placement: Place the dehumidifier in a central location for optimal air circulation. In basements, position it away from walls and furniture.
• Maintenance: Regularly clean and replace filters to ensure efficient operation. Empty the water reservoir as needed, or use a continuous drain option if available.
• Humidity Settings: Aim for a humidity level of 30-50% for optimal comfort and air quality.

Final Thoughts

Investing in a dehumidifier is a smart move for homeowners in Indianapolis and throughout Indiana. By choosing the right size and maintaining your unit properly, you can enjoy a more comfortable, healthier living environment year-round. Whether you’re battling summer humidity or preventing wintertime condensation, a dehumidifier is an essential part of your HVAC system.

For more tips and expert advice on maintaining your home’s HVAC system in Indiana, stay tuned to our blog or contact your local HVAC professional today!