The Benefits of a Dehumidifier

Dehumidifiers are among the most valuable appliances you can have in your business. If you’re thinking about investing in a portable dehumidifier or installing something with more power, your head is in the right place. They are a smart investment that will start paying off right away and keep delivering value for years.

Signs You Need a Dehumidifier

Virtually all businesses should consider investing in at least one dehumidifier. In some cases, it’s a critical need. Even if you have a hygrometer installed — a device used to measure humidity levels — you’ll want to watch out for the telltale signs your moisture levels are too high:

• Damage: Excess moisture can make paint blister and wallpaper peel. It also causes wood to expand, resulting in creaky noises.
• Discomfort: When humidity levels reach 60% and higher, it can start to feel sticky, stuffy, hot and generally uncomfortable.
• Condensation: When there’s too much moisture in the air, it will cool and collect on glass surfaces, forming condensation.
• Mold: Mold is everywhere, all the time. Keeping things dry keeps it at bay. If you see mold, there’s too much water in the air.

What Causes High Humidity?

If you’re experiencing signs of high humidity, it’s important to know the origin. In some cases, high moisture levels are part of the natural climate. Other times, you could be experiencing excessive humidity due to something worse, like a leak, groundwater penetration or a previous flood. Check to make sure your building envelope is sealed, inspect for leaks and look for pooling water.

When Should You Use a Dehumidifier?

Running a dehumidifier is an appropriate move for businesses of all sizes in practically any industry. They have a wide range of different commercial uses. Some of the more common include:

• Environmental improvements: Controlling moisture makes the area more pleasant for employees, visitors and customers.
• Inventory management: Dehumidifiers help ensure sensitive and perishable products and goods maintain safe moisture levels.
• Temperature control: Removing moisture will contribute to more balanced climate control, reducing demand on your HVAC system.

The Benefits of a Dehumidifier

Are dehumidifiers worth it? Absolutely. In the vast majority of cases, the benefits of a dehumidifier far outweigh the cost of purchase. Use them at your business to take advantage of:

• More comfort: Lower humidity makes it easier for the human body to stay cool or get warm, and reduces airborne allergens.
• Improved building integrity: Regulating humidity will help preserve building floors, ceilings, framing, fixtures and the foundation.
• Lower utility costs: Humid air takes more time to cool. Drying things out means you’ll run your air conditioner less, helping you save.
• Natural pest control: Maintaining a low relative humidity will dissuade spiders, ants, roaches and other pests from sharing the space.

Have Mold or Water Damage?

If your building has mold or water damage caused by high humidity levels, let us put things back in order. At URI, we specialize in commercial disaster planning and emergency restoration services. Just give us a call, and we’re on it!

Reach out to us today to learn more about the services we provide.