Should I Use a Commercial Dehumidifier in My Basement

Lgr85 Heavy Duty Dehumidifier for Large Basement

The condition of basements in the United States

In the United States, the dry and wet conditions of basements vary greatly, mainly depending on the climate of the region, the construction method of the house, the waterproofing measures of the foundation, and the drainage system. It can be roughly divided into the following situations:

1. Regional differences

Northeastern region (New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, etc.): There is more rainfall, snow in winter, and the groundwater level is prone to rise during spring snowmelt, leading to common issues of dampness and even water seepage in basements.

Midwest (Chicago, Michigan, Ohio, etc.): Near the Great Lakes, humidity is high, and basement humidity is common, requiring dehumidifiers.

South (Florida, Louisiana, etc.): Low terrain, high groundwater level, hot and humid climate, many houses do not have basements directly; If there is a basement, the probability of dampness and mold is extremely high.

Western regions (California, Colorado, etc.): The climate is dry, and basements are usually relatively dry unless near the beach or encountering groundwater leakage.

2. Common sources of basement moisture

Groundwater infiltration: When the waterproof layer of the foundation is insufficient or aging, groundwater will seep into the wall or ground.

Poor rainwater drainage: Poor slope of eaves, drainage ditch, and exterior wall drainage can cause rainwater to seep towards the foundation.

High air humidity: In summer, hot and humid outdoor air enters the basement and condenses into water droplets when encountering cooler wall surfaces.

Pipeline leakage: The rupture of condensate or water supply pipes can also increase moisture.

3. Typical manifestations of dry and wet conditions

Dry basement: With fresh air and no water stains on the walls and floors, it is usually used for storage, laundry rooms, and even converted into living spaces.

Slightly damp basement: The air is a bit stuffy, and occasionally white salt alkali traces can be seen in the corners, which is a common situation.

Severely damp basement: There are obvious water stains, moldy walls, a moldy smell in the air, and even water accumulation, which are more common in old houses or areas with poor drainage systems.

Dehumidification scheme for damp basement

To develop a dehumidification plan for a damp basement, it is usually necessary to combine "source waterproofing, moisture control, and air circulation" to achieve long-term effectiveness. Here is a solution for everyone:

1. Prevent water from entering

Check the external drainage system

Clean the gutter and downspout of the eaves to ensure that rainwater is drained at least 1.5-3 meters away from the foundation.

There should be a slope around the foundation to prevent rainwater from gathering towards the wall.

Foundation waterproofing

A waterproof membrane and drainage board can be used on the exterior of the wall.

Apply waterproof coating (such as Drylok, Xypex) to the interior walls to prevent water infiltration.

Sump Pump

Install a sump pump at the lowest point of the basement to automatically drain when the groundwater level rises.

It is a common solution for areas with high groundwater levels, such as the central and western regions and the northeast.

2. Reduce air humidity

Basement dehumidifier

It is recommended to choose a high-power dehumidifier with a drainage pipe or automatic drainage pump to avoid frequent water pouring. Preair provides professional restoration dehumidifiers for sale. The LGR series dehumidifiers are equipped with a drain hose, water pump, and super-cool technology.

It is best to continuously drain to the sewer or collection pit.

It is more appropriate to control the humidity at around 50%.

A combination of air conditioning systems.

If the basement has been converted into a residential space, it can be connected to the whole house HVAC system and equipped with a whole house dehumidifier.