Should You Add a Second Dehumidifier to Your Basement?

The decision to add a second dehumidifier to your basement depends on several critical factors, including humidity levels, basement size, and the efficiency of your current unit. This article explores these considerations to help you make an informed decision.

Factors to Consider Before Adding a Dehumidifier

Humidity Levels: One of the primary reasons to consider a second dehumidifier is the humidity levels in your basement. If the humidity consistently fluctuates above 60-70%, a second dehumidifier can help maintain a more comfortable and dry environment. A hygrometer can be used to measure humidity levels in different areas of the basement.

Size of the Basement: If your basement is large or has multiple areas prone to moisture, a single dehumidifier might struggle to effectively reduce humidity. A second dehumidifier can help in these scenarios.

Water Accumulation: If your 50-pint dehumidifier fills up every 7-8 hours, it suggests a significant moisture load. Depending on how often you can empty the tank or if your dehumidifier has a drainage option, this could indicate that the current unit is struggling to keep up.

Airflow and Circulation: Poorly ventilated or limited airflow areas in the basement can be challenging for a single dehumidifier to manage. Adding a second dehumidifier can improve air circulation and effectively reduce humidity in these spots.

Energy Efficiency: While running multiple dehumidifiers might consume more energy, the potential benefits, such as preventing mold growth and improving indoor air quality, are significant. Consider the energy costs and weigh them against the long-term benefits.

Case Study: Transitioning from Residential to Commercial Dehumidifiers

Previously, I had two 50-pint residential dehumidifiers running, but still, couldn’t get my basement’s humidity below 65%. A 190-pint commercial unit brought the humidity down to 45 in a single night. This case study highlights the effectiveness of larger dehumidifiers in quickly reducing basement humidity.

Alternative Strategies for Controlling Baseline Humidity

Closing Windows and Doors: Controlling the amount of moisture entering the room by closing windows and doors is a practical first step. This strategy can help the dehumidifier do its job more efficiently until the air is relatively dry. However, it might not be a long-term solution, especially if the source of humidity persists.

Dehumidifying Best Practices

Draining the Dehumidifier: Connecting a garden hose to the drain spout on your dehumidifier and directing it to a floor drain can significantly reduce the workload of emptying the tank manually. This also helps prevent backflow and potential messes.

Identify the Source of Humidity: High humidity in a basement might indicate underlying issues such as a water system leak, a leaky basement floor, or a leaky basement wall. Addressing these sources is crucial for sustainable humidity control.

Conclusion

While controlling the flow of moisture into the room is a good initial step, adding a second dehumidifier can be a more effective solution if your basement is large or humid, or if a single dehumidifier is struggling to keep up with the moisture load. Regular inspection and addressing the root causes of high humidity can further enhance the effectiveness of your dehumidification efforts.