The dehumidification scheme for underground crawl spaces should take into account dehumidification effectiveness, energy consumption, easy maintenance, and moisture and mold prevention. It can generally be designed in the following aspects:
1. Preliminary preparation and moisture-proof measures
Before placing the dehumidifier, control the external moisture source first, so that the working pressure of the dehumidifier can be greatly reduced:
Enclosed space: Cover the ground and walls with moisture-proof film (6-12 mil thick) to prevent soil moisture from penetrating.
Sealing gaps: Block ventilation openings, cracks, and crevices to reduce the entry of external humid air.
Drainage system: Ensure that rainwater and groundwater have drainage paths to avoid water accumulation.
2. Selection of dehumidification equipment
The underground crawling space has high humidity and low height, and the equipment should be low-noise, compact, and capable of continuous drainage.
Plan A: Dedicated Crawl Space Dehumidifier
Installation method: A dehumidifier for crawl space under house has a horizontal and low-rise design, can be placed in the center of the space or on one side.
Advantages: Designed specifically for low space use, with a large dehumidification capacity (50-130 pins/day), suitable for continuous operation.
Drainage: Connect the drainage pipe directly to the sump or external drainage.
Representative brands: Santa Fe, Aprilaire, AlorAir, Preair, etc.
Plan B: Whole house dehumidifier + pipeline
Installation method: Install a whole house dehumidifier with fresh air intake that can send dry air into the crawl space through air ducts.
Advantages: One machine can simultaneously process the crawl space and main floor air.
Disadvantage: The cost of installing pipes and air vents is relatively high.
Option C: Portable dehumidifier (temporary/economical option)
Installation method: Place it in the crawling space and extend the drainage pipe.
Advantages: Low investment, suitable for situations where humidity issues are not severe.
Disadvantages: Short lifespan, frequent maintenance, not suitable for year-round operation.
3. Operation and Control of Dehumidifier
Humidity setting: It is recommended to maintain 50-55% RH for the crawling space.
Automated control: Dehumidifiers with humidity sensors can automatically start and stop according to the environment.
Air circulation: Small circulating fans can help distribute humidity evenly and avoid dead corners from getting damp.
4. Maintenance and upkeep
Regularly clean the filter screen (once every 1-3 months) to prevent dust from clogging.
Check the drainage pipe to prevent blockage and backflow.
Annual refrigeration system inspection to ensure that the refrigerant and compressor are in good condition.
Example configuration
Size: crawl spaces of 50-100 square meters
Equipment: 70-130 pins/day crawling space dedicated dehumidifier (such as Preair VT70E)
Humidity control: Comes with a built-in humidity controller, set to 55% RH
Drainage: PVC pipe connected to external wall drainage outlet or sump pump
Moisture proof treatment: laying 10 mil PE moisture-proof film+wall sealing coating
Additional: Install a 6-8 inch circulating fan to maintain airflow
Post time: Aug-14-2025