What should I set my dehumidifier at in the basement?
What should I set my dehumidifier at in the basement?
You’ll want to be sure to keep your basement dehumidifier at 60% or less at a minimum. Ideally, however, the best setting is around 50% or so.
Is 60% humidity too high for a basement?
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. Low humidity may also discourage pests (such as cockroaches) and dust mites.
How much humidity should be in a basement?
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.
What is a good humidity settings for basement in the summer?
Most commonly, summer weather can increase humidity and winter can decrease humidity. Warmer summertime air comes into your home bringing its excess humidity with it. This excess humidity in basements is often well above the recommended 30-50% relative humidity levels.
What percent humidity should I set my dehumidifier at?
between 30 and 50 percent
Putting Your Dehumidifier to Work Here’s expert advice, from CR and Energy Star, on getting the most from your dehumidifier. Set the humidity level. The optimal relative humidity level is between 30 and 50 percent, according to Energy Star (and 30 to 40 percent in colder areas during heating season).
Is 70 humidity too high for basement?
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. Also, home-destroying mold could also cause costly foundation damage.
What should basement humidity be to prevent mold?
50%
May says high humidity is the leading cause of mold growth in the basement. Mold and mildew flourish when the relative humidity level is above 80%; therefore all basements—finished or unfinished—should be kept at or below 50% relative humidity.
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.