Maintaining the right humidity levels is one of the most crucial yet overlooked aspects of creating a comfortable and healthy environment. Excessive moisture in the air can lead to a host of problems, including mould growth, unpleasant odours, and even structural damage to buildings. Additionally, high humidity creates an ideal environment for dust mites and allergens to grow, posing risks to respiratory health.
Investing in a reliable dehumidifier like the EcoAir Summit S is one of the most effective ways to control indoor humidity and improve air quality. These devices work by extracting excess moisture, making your living or working environment more comfortable and healthier. However, simply purchasing a dehumidifier is not enough, the right use of the device is also crucial to drive desired outcomes.
6 Mistakes to Avoid
When using a dehumidifier, making even a single mistake can significantly reduce its efficiency, lead to higher energy bills, or cause further humidity issues. Therefore, understanding the common mistakes and implementing effective measures is crucial to maintaining a healthy environment.
Here are six common mistakes people make when using a dehumidifier and tips on how to avoid them.
1. Choosing the Wrong Size of Dehumidifier
One of the most common mistakes is selecting a dehumidifier that is either too large or too small for the room it is intended to serve. A unit that is too small will struggle to remove sufficient moisture, leading to prolonged usage and higher energy costs. On the other hand, an oversized dehumidifier may cycle on and off too frequently, failing to maintain consistent humidity levels and consuming more power.
Make sure to carefully assess the size of the space and the level of humidity. Additionally, reliable manufacturers also provide guidelines on coverage area for each model, making it easier to choose the appropriate size.
2. Placing the Dehumidifier in the Wrong Location
The location of placement of a dehumidifier can also affect its effectiveness. Many users mistakenly position the device too close to walls, furniture, or other obstructions, limiting air circulation. It prevents the dehumidifier from drawing in humid air efficiently, causing it to work harder and less effectively.
The dehumidifier should be placed at least 30 centimetres away from walls and furniture to optimise the performance. Ideally, it should be positioned in the centre of the room or in a location where moisture levels are highest, such as basements, bathrooms, or near windows that frequently collect condensation.
3. Ignoring the Humidity Settings
Another mistake is to overlook the importance of adjusting the humidity settings on the dehumidifier. Many people simply turn the device on without checking or modifying the default settings. Maintaining humidity levels that are too low can cause dryness and discomfort, while levels that are too high can lead to mould and mildew.
The recommended indoor humidity range is between 40% and 60%. Most modern dehumidifiers come with a built-in hygrometer to monitor and adjust the humidity automatically, but it is still advisable to check and adjust the settings manually as needed.
4. Neglecting Regular Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular maintenance is vital for the efficient operation of a dehumidifier. Many users make the mistake of neglecting tasks such as cleaning or replacing air filters, emptying the water tank, or inspecting the coils. Clogged filters and dirty coils can reduce airflow and efficiency, causing the device to consume more energy while delivering subpar performance.
It is recommended to clean the filters at least once a month and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for other maintenance tasks. Additionally, using a vacuum cleaner to clear dust and debris from the vents can help prolong the dehumidifier’s lifespan.
5. Leaving Windows and Doors Open
One of the most common misconceptions is that leaving windows or doors open while the dehumidifier is running will help ventilate the room. In reality, this mistake allows additional humid air to enter the space, forcing the dehumidifier to work continuously without making any significant progress in reducing humidity levels.
Make sure to keep windows and doors closed when the device is in use.
Creating a sealed environment allows the dehumidifier to focus on extracting moisture from the indoor air without being overwhelmed by external sources of humidity.
6. Running the Dehumidifier Continuously
Many people assume that keeping the dehumidifier running all the time is the best way to control humidity. However, this approach can lead to unnecessary energy consumption and wear on the device. Most dehumidifiers like EcoAir DD1 Mini are designed to operate in cycles, turning off once the desired humidity level is reached. Running the device continuously can also lead to overly dry air, which may cause skin and respiratory discomfort.
To avoid this mistake, it is advisable to use the timer function or set the device to automatic mode if available. It allows the dehumidifier to maintain ideal humidity levels efficiently.
A Final Word
Dehumidifiers are a valuable investment for maintaining healthy and comfortable indoor environments, but using them correctly is crucial to achieve the desired results. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can maximise the efficiency and extend the lifespan of your device.
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