Are Dehumidifiers Useful In Flooded Basements?

Why Dry Out The Basement After a Flood?

Just because you’ve drained the water from your basement doesn’t mean you’re out of the woods yet. Hidden moisture in the air can trigger secondary damage to your home. If water sat for an extended period, the resulting high humidity will cause issues like wood rot, peeling paint, mold and mildew growth. Also, pests and termites are drawn to damp environments, posing further threats.

Without an effective dehumidifier, your basement is at risk of significant deterioration, leading to expensive repairs. A dehumidifier works alongside fans or wet vacs to reduce air moisture and prevent additional damage. Strive to maintain a humidity level below 50%.

Before activating your dehumidifier, open all basement windows to promote air circulation. Clear away any carpets and clean debris from walls and surfaces. Position the dehumidifier about six feet away from the wall for optimum performance, which can typically dry out the basement within 12-24 hours.

Remember, the longer moisture persists, the greater the risk of damage to the structural elements and belongings in the basement. So act fast!

The Advantages of a Basement Dehumidifier

A dehumidifier does more than just dry your home; it can also boost your health and save money. Here are the reasons why a dehumidifier is a worthwhile investment after a flood:

• Safeguards your basements from water damage: Over time, moisture can cause severe damage to household items. In the long run, a dehumidifier can lower the costs of repairs.

• Prevents mold growth: Dehumidification helps deter mold growth, thereby avoiding health issues such as skin rashes, respiratory problems, and dry eyes that can occur from exposure.
• Offers round-the-clock protection: In areas susceptible to flooding and drainage problems, a dehumidifier can be a great addition to your basement waterproofing initiatives. These devices work continuously to keep moisture at bay, regardless of the weather.
• Eliminates dust mites and other microbes: Dust mites, which thrive in warm, humid conditions, can cause itchiness, eczema, and other allergy symptoms. Dehumidifiers make your basement less inviting for these microscopic nuisances.
• Improves air quality: A damp basement may be filled with airborne allergens that can trigger respiratory problems such as coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. By removing excess moisture, you’ll be breathing fresher air with fewer allergens.

What’s the Best Dehumidifier for your Basement?

Dehumidifiers come in various shapes and sizes. The most important thing is to find one that can serve you well and boost the efficiency of your HVAC system. We strongly recommend energy-efficient models that also are self-draining, so you won’t have to empty buckets of water every other day.

So, is a humidifier worth the investment? Yes, every penny. If you require assistance with dehumidifier selection or installation, Tar Heel Basement Systems is your go-to expert. We’re ready to offer a free basement waterproofing inspection and guide you on the next steps with confidence.

Holly Richards-Purpura

Content Writer

Holly is a Content Writer for Groundworks who has written and edited web content for the foundation services industry for 10 years. With a background in journalism, her passion for the written word runs deep. Holly lives in Columbus, OH, with her husband. Along with educating homeowners, she also has a big heart for the Big Apple.