A dehumidifier is an electronic device that takes moisture out of the air. Individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions may find dehumidifiers as useful tools to help with their breathing. Dehumidifiers are an integral part of the janitorial process especially with regards to respiratory health. It enhances a cleaned and disinfected environment by eliminating allergens and other particulate matter which may cause illness. The objective of this article to highlight the environmental and health benefits of dehumidifiers in the commercial and residential space.
During the summer months or in warmer climates, dehumidifiers may help remove the level of moisture (humidity) in the environment by a certain percentage thus allowing for improved breathing (30-50% is optimal). This is particularly important for people who may suffer from conditions such as Asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or may have certain seasonal allergies. Due to his ability to remove water content from the environment, dehumidifiers are useful when controlling for growth of fungus like mold mold, pollen, or dust mites. The presence of these environmental allergens may cause wheezing, sneezing, chest pain, eye irritation and itching in both humans and animals.
A dehumidifier works by drawing warm air currents into its coils via a fan. The warm air contracts as it is fed through the refrigerated coils of the machine, and condensation is left inside the dehumidifier. As this condensation collects, one droplet of water at a time, it falls into a storage tank attached to the dehumidifier. Cooler, drier air is then released back into the environment from the outlets on the side of the machine. A dehumidifier should be able to bring the moisture in the air down to a relative humidity of 30 to 50 percent. Many dehumidifiers come with a meter that measures the relative humidity in a space.
In addition to keeping the environment cleaned and disinfected, devices such as dehumidifiers will keep the environment clean by removing unseen matter which may trigger adverse health among occupants. Check out our blog article on Impact of Indoor Air Quality here
