Know the signs. Too much moisture in your home can leave you feeling sticky and uncomfortable. Damp-smelling rooms, mold or mildew on walls, and condensation collecting on windows are all signs that your home has an excess moisture problem.
Locate the source. Homes can have many sources of moisture, among them bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and clothes dryers. Commonly, leaks occur in your basement, roof and attic, crawl spaces, windowsills, and plumbing. Locate and seal obvious leaks - and keep in mind that excess condensation, wood rot, mold, and peeling paint could all be signs of a leak hiding beneath the surface!
Be proactive. The best way to prevent moisture is with proper ventilation. The most effective ventilation comes from well-sized and properly installed fans. Use kitchen and bathroom fans, along with dryer vents, to exhaust steam. Be vigilant, dryng any condensation or pooling water promptly. Preventative insulation and sealing can also go a long way. Caulk and weather-strip windows and doors to keep out humid air, and don't forget to seal around tubs and sinks to prevent water from leaking into your walls.
Choose the right size dehumidifer. A dehumidifier pulls moisture from the air, helping to reduce humidity and improve air quality, but it should be properly sized for the needs of your home. A dehumidifier that is too large will waste energy and lead to higher electricity bills. The size you'll need depends on the size of your room (or basement) and the amount of moisture present in the air. Use the chart below to estimate the capacity you are looking for:
Get a DCSEU rebate. The DCSEU offers a $25 rebate on qualifying dehumidifiers. The more than 300 dehumidifiers eligible for this rebate meet ENERGY STAR® qualifications, helping you save more energy and money while helping to protect the environment. You can apply for your rebate online through March 31.