What should I set my dehumidifier at in the basement?

Accurate dehumidifier settings for basement

Molds tend to become a problem at a relative humidity of 60% and above. Therefore, we recommend that you keep your basement dehumidifier within a range of 40% to 60%. More accurately, set your dehumidifier to maintain an exact 50% humidity.

Is 60 humidity too high for a basement?

Indoor relative humidity (RH) should be kept below 60 percent — ideally between 30 percent and 50 percent, if possible. Low humidity may also discourage pests (such as cockroaches) and dust mites. The key part that we forget when it comes to basement dehumidifier setting is the temperature.

What is acceptable basement humidity?

As a general rule, you basement should keep a relative humidity level of 30 to 50 percent. Not only does this range reduce the risk of harmful bacterial growth, it also prevents several health risks associated with low humidity.

Will mold grow at 55 humidity?

Sometimes, humidity or dampness (water vapor) in the air can supply enough moisture for mold growth. Indoor relative humidity (RH) should be kept below 60 percent — ideally between 30 percent and 50 percent, if possible.

Should a dehumidifier run constantly?

When you first operate your dehumidifier, it would be good practise to run it continuously until the RH falls below the 60% mark or fills up the water tank, which ever comes first. Once RH is below 60% you can then use the dehumidifier during day and off during the night.

Is 70% humidity in basement too high?

A relative humidity level of 70 percent or higher creates the perfect breeding ground for mold growth. Leaving basement mold unchecked could amount to unhealthy indoor air, causing sickness to your family and aggravated upper respiratory issues.

When should I run my dehumidifier in the basement?

May said that, as a guide, it’s best to use a dehumidifier when your basement feels humid or when you’ve spotted some of the signs outlined above. Running a dehumidifier for around 12 hours a day will enable you to manage indoor moisture while ensuring your energy costs aren’t too high.

When should you turn off dehumidifier in basement?

If the temperature or humidity drops below the ideal level, you will want to turn the dehumidifier off. You never want the coils or water to freeze because it can cause lasting damage to the device.

How do you fix high humidity in a basement?

5 Tips to Reduce the Humidity Level in Your Basement
  1. Open the Windows. A great way to get air circulating in the room is to open up the windows whenever you’re down there. …
  2. Keep It Clean! Storing too many items in your basement will create clutter. …
  3. Seal Up Any Gaps. …
  4. Turn Up the Heat. …
  5. Get a Dehumidifier.

Do I need to run dehumidifier in basement in winter?

Because humidity levels vary throughout the year, so does the need to run your dehumidifier. During cold winter months, the air in your home is usually dry, which means a dehumidifier is not necessary.

Does basement humidity affect upstairs?

But humidity in the basement or crawl space affects the upstairs too. Since air flows into the upper levels of your home from the basement or crawl space, it brings the humidity from down there with it.

Should I keep a dehumidifier in my basement?

In spaces that are naturally more damp, such as basements and crawl spaces, a dehumidifier will help dry the air, reducing musty odors and preventing mold growth and other issues caused by excess moisture. A basement dehumidifier helps maintain an ideal indoor relative humidity (RH) level in the space.

Are basements more humid in summer or winter?

The ideal humidity in a finished basement is about 50 percent, although that fluctuates from 30 to 50 percent through the seasons. Winter humidity is usually much lower than summer humidity, so you may want to run a dehumidifier or an exhaust fan in the basement in warmer months to lower basement humidity.

Will a fan in the basement help reduce humidity?

A fan itself won’t really help with the humidity levels in your cellar, but it will help with getting air moving into the room from other areas such as the rest of the house and outdoors. Having a fan on a low speed regularly in your basement will improve airflow – thus moving the wet air out and the dry air in!

Do I need to run dehumidifier in basement in summer?

Many basements in warm humid climates need dehumidification during the summer months to keep mold growth at bay. If you notice a musty smell or odor in a room, it will probably benefit from a dehumidifier, as drier air is not only healthier for you but will also be less likely to smell or have a stale, musty odor.

How long does it take for a dehumidifier to dry basement?

6. How long will it take to get the moisture under control? As long as the dehumidifier you choose is large enough for the area it is working in, and there are no specific damp problems, then a dehumidifier will normally reduce the humidity to the chosen level within a few days to a week.

What temperature should a basement dehumidifier be set at?

Ideal Dehumidifier Operating Temperatures. The ideal operating temperature for refrigerant dehumidifiers is between 70 and 90 degrees F.