A dehumidifier can be a helpful tool when it comes to keeping your home comfortable and free from moisture.
A study showed that dehumidifiers effectively reduce indoor humidity and prevent issues like condensation and mold growth in a suburban home.1 However, some locations can make the device less effective, wasting energy and not solving your humidity problems.
So, which of these spots in your home are not suitable for placing a dehumidifier?
1. Don’t Place It in a Closet or Small Room
Putting a dehumidifier in a closet or a very small room is not a good idea. These spaces are often closed off, and a dehumidifier needs good airflow to work properly. If it can’t circulate air, it won’t remove moisture effectively.
What to Do Instead: Always choose a well-ventilated area, like a room with open doors or windows. This way, the dehumidifier can do its job better.
2. Avoid Using It Near Electrical Appliances
Keep your dehumidifier away from electrical appliances, like washing machines, refrigerators, or computers. These devices can produce heat and moisture, which might confuse the dehumidifier and make it work harder than it needs to.
What to Do Instead: Place the dehumidifier in a separate area where it can focus on removing humidity without interference from other machines. This will help it run more efficiently.
3. Never Put It on Carpet or Rugs
Carpet or rugs can absorb water and moisture. If you place a dehumidifier on them, it can cause the carpet to stay damp, leading to mold growth. Also, carpets can block the dehumidifier’s feet, reducing airflow and efficiency.
What to Do Instead: Use the dehumidifier on a hard surface, like tile or hardwood, for better air circulation. You can also place a waterproof mat under it to protect your flooring.
4. Don’t Place It in a High Humidity Area Like a Shower Room
Even though you might think a dehumidifier would work well in a high-humidity area, putting it in a bathroom or shower room can be problematic. The steam and heat can damage the dehumidifier or affect its performance.
What to Do Instead: Use the dehumidifier in nearby rooms that get humid after a shower instead. This way, it can help manage the moisture without being exposed to extreme conditions.
5. Avoid Areas with Direct Sunlight
Putting your dehumidifier in direct sunlight can cause it to overheat. This not only makes it work less effectively but can also shorten its lifespan. The heat from the sun can lead to premature wear and tear on the device.
What to Do Instead: Choose a shaded spot for your dehumidifier. This will help it work more efficiently and last longer, saving you money in the long run.
6. Don’t Place It Near Windows or Doors
Avoid putting your dehumidifier too close to windows or doors. Openings like these can let in outside air, which might be more humid than the air inside. This makes your dehumidifier work harder to remove moisture, waste energy, and become ineffective.
What to Do Instead: Position your dehumidifier away from windows and doors. This way, it can focus on controlling the humidity in the room without outside air interfering.
7. Never Use It in an Unstable Environment
It’s important to keep your dehumidifier in a stable environment. Avoid placing it on uneven surfaces or in areas where it might get knocked over easily. An unstable setup can damage the unit and lead to spills or leaks.
What to Do Instead: Choose a flat, stable surface for your dehumidifier, like a sturdy table or shelf. This helps prevent accidents and ensures that the unit operates correctly.
8. Avoid Putting It in a Cold Garage or Basement
Putting your dehumidifier in a cold garage or basement can be a mistake. Most dehumidifiers work best in warm environments.
If the temperature drops too low, the machine may freeze up and stop working properly, damaging it and making it ineffective.
What to Do Instead: To control humidity in your garage or basement, consider heating the space slightly before using the dehumidifier. This will help keep it within the optimal temperature range, allowing it to function effectively.
Knowing where not to put your dehumidifier is just as important as knowing where to place it, so you can enjoy a healthier living environment.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.