Dehumidifiers remove the moisture from humid air, replacing it with colder, drier air that makes indoor living more bearable.
The positioning of a dehumidifier is vital to ensure it runs at maximum efficiency. Put in the wrong place could not only be counter-productive, it might also be dangerous.
Knowing where to place your dehumidifier guarantees the machine performs at its best, in the most energy-efficient manner.
A dehumidifier works best when placed near to the source of the moisture issue. It needs plenty of clearance around it to draw in the humid air and expel the condensed, cold air.
It should be easy to drain and kept a safe distance from anything that might clog the filter, such as dust mites and dirt particles.
In which room should I place my dehumidifier?
If you’re struggling with a damp issue, the basement or cellar is a common source of the problem.
A dehumidifier runs automatically; if you position it on the stairwell, close to the access point of the main house; it will do the main portion of its job in the basement, and the rest of the house will also reap the benefit.
Consider using it in a laundry room, especially if your washing machine and tumble drier are always on the go. They produce an excessive amount of moisture which, a dehumidifier can deal with immediately.
The kitchen is a major source for steam and condensation. A dehumidifier will draw out any moisture, although vents and extractor should do the job as long as they’re in full working order.
The same applies to bathrooms and en-suites.
Bedroom dehumidifiers are a bone of contention; however, some users rely on them for a comfortable night’s sleep. Ensure your chosen model has sufficient water storage space so as not to overflow.
Where should I place my dehumidifier?
Once you have decided which room is best for your dehumidifier, the exact placement should be the next consideration.
Air circulation
Dehumidifiers work as a fan draws in air, condenses the moisture out, before expelling the cooler, clean air back into the atmosphere.
It is achieved when a rear-vented dehumidifier has 12″ of clearance from any potential blockage, such as a wall or piece of furniture.
Side and top-vented systems are safe to stand against a wall but still need clearance around them allowing air to circulate.
Electrical hazards
Any machine that houses both water and electricity has the potential for danger. Always be alert for overspills or leakages and don’t position the dehumidifier near to any plugs, sockets, switches, or other electrical equipment.
Dust mites
It is hard to prevent anything airborne from clogging the filter. What you can do is place your dehumidifier away from potential dirt and dust creators. A workshop full of sawdust isn’t suitable; neither is placing it next to a pet bed full of fur.
If you place your unit in the laundry room, keep it away from the tumble drier, as it will attract all of the collected lint and fluff.
Drainage
Allow yourself enough access to empty a full tank without fear of spillage.
If you have a hose running from the machine to the drain, place them as close together as possible.
Loose cables and hoses present trip hazards.
Where shouldn’t you place a dehumidifier?
They work on the principle of air-circulation, so never place a dehumidifier in an enclosed space.
As the fan works harder to condense the humid air, the motor heats; over-heating results in failure of the unit, or worst still, fire.
There should be enough space around the dehumidifier for any generated heat to dissipate safely.
Final thoughts
Knowing where is best to place your dehumidifier might mean the difference between cool, breathable air, and a humid atmosphere where allergy-inducing particle thrives and mould builds up.
As long as the unit has plenty of room for air to circulate, then there is no reason why your home shouldn’t always enjoy perfect humidity.