How to Choose the Right Size Dehumidifier

Choosing the right size dehumidifier for your home is important to ensure that it effectively removes moisture from the air and prevents damage from excess humidity. Here are some steps to follow to determine the appropriate size dehumidifier for your space:

Measure the room: Measure the length, width, and height of the room to determine the total square footage. For example, if the room is 20 feet long, 15 feet wide, and 8 feet high, the total square footage is 20 x 15 = 300 square feet.

Determine the desired humidity level: The ideal indoor humidity level is between 30% and 50%. Determine the humidity level in your home using a hygrometer, which measures relative humidity. If the humidity level is above 50%, you may need a larger dehumidifier to effectively remove moisture from the air.

Calculate the amount of moisture to remove: The amount of moisture that needs to be removed from the air is measured in pints per day (PPD). To calculate the PPD for your space, multiply the total square footage by the appropriate factor based on the desired humidity level:

For a room with moderate humidity (40-50%), multiply the total square footage by 0.5.

For a room with high humidity (60-70%), multiply the total square footage by 0.6.

For a room with extremely high humidity (over 70%), multiply the total square footage by 0.7.

Using the example above, if the room has moderate humidity, the PPD would be 300 x 0.5 = 150 PPD.

Choose the appropriate size dehumidifier: Dehumidifiers are rated by their ability to remove moisture in pints per day (PPD). To choose the appropriate size dehumidifier for your space, select a model that has a PPD rating that matches or exceeds the PPD calculated in step 3. For example, if the PPD for your space is 150, choose a dehumidifier that has a rating of 150 PPD or higher.

Keep in mind that other factors may affect the size of the dehumidifier needed, such as the number of windows, ventilation, and the presence of moisture sources like a basement or laundry room. In these cases, it may be necessary to choose a larger dehumidifier or use multiple units to effectively remove moisture from the air.

In addition to the size of the dehumidifier, consider other factors such as energy efficiency, noise level, portability, additional features, and brand reputation when making your selection. Choosing the right size dehumidifier for your space can help to improve indoor air quality, prevent damage from excess humidity, and create a more comfortable living environment in your home.