A dehumidifier removes moisture from the air by condensing it into water droplets, collecting the water and then releasing the dry air back into the room. Many air conditioners also dehumidify as part of their function. However, a dedicated dehumidifier has a much higher dehumidifying capacity than most ACs, and dehumidifiers are useful in hot or cold weather.
Dehumidifiers are handy because a humid environment prevents moisture on your skin from evaporating effectively, making it harder to stay cool. However, high humidity levels don’t just cause discomfort; they can also promote mold and mildew growth and affect furniture, paper and foods, like salt and spices. In high humidity, many materials absorb the moisture in the air and stick together, mildew, warp or distort.
Using a dehumidifier may be essential if you have had a water leak or flooding from a storm or if you live in a very damp or humid climate where mold and mildew are prevalent. To dry a room or basement after flooding, use your dehumidifier in conjunction with powerful fans that move air around the space.
