First things first, what is a dehumidifier?
A dehumidifier is a device that removes moisture from the air in your home. If you or a member of your family suffers from asthma or allergies, a dehumidifier may help alleviate symptoms and make breathing easier.
What are the health benefits of dehumidifiers?
- Dehumidifiers aid in the reduction of allergy symptoms.
Environmental allergens can cause the following symptoms:
- wheezing
- sneezing
- chest discomfort
- irritation of the eyes
- itching
Typical allergy triggers include:
- mold
- dander mites
- pollen
- dander from animals
Dust mites, in particular, require a relative humidity level of 65 percent to survive and reproduce. That’s a level that a dehumidifier can easily control.
Mold growth is also controlled by dehumidifying the air.
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- Dehumidifiers may aid in asthma control.
Moisture in the air makes it heavier and often more difficult to breathe. As a result, people with asthma may struggle in high-humidity environments.
A dehumidifier can make breathing in and out easier on the lungs. Mugginess vanishes, and the air becomes cooler and more comfortable.
According to a 2013 study, there is little evidence to support the use of a dehumidifier as an actual treatment for chronic asthma, but there is also no evidence that using a dehumidifier can be harmful.
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- Dehumidifiers can help to make the environment healthier.
By removing mold and dust, you are also removing invaders such as silverfish, cockroaches, and spiders. People with COPD may benefit from lower humidity levels as well.
If you live in a naturally humid climate, a dehumidifier can also help to cool your home and reduce the need for an air conditioner.
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How does a dehumidifier work?
A dehumidifier works by using a fan to draw warm air currents into its coils. Warm air contracts as it passes through the machine’s refrigerated coils, leaving condensation inside the dehumidifier.
As condensation forms, one droplet of water at a time, it falls into a storage tank connected to the dehumidifier. Cooler, drier air is then released into your home through the machine’s other side.
Your dehumidifier should be able to reduce the moisture in the air to 30 to 50% relative humidity. Many dehumidifiers include a meter that measures the relative humidity in your home, and you can set the humidity to a percentage.
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Disadvantages of a dehumidifier
A dehumidifier may not be suitable for everyone. Using one in your space may have some unintended consequences
Dehumidifiers dry out the air. If you live in an already dry climate (such as a desert or high-altitude area), or if you heat your home with gas or electricity, a dehumidifier may not be necessary.
Conditions such as pneumonia can worsen if the air becomes too dry.
If your home becomes arid, your skin and hair may suffer as well. Eczema (atopic dermatitis) sufferers may be more prone to flare-ups in a dry environment.
When using a dehumidifier, you should be especially careful to stay hydrated.
A dehumidifier has some proven health benefits. The main advantage is that allergens and irritants are reduced in damp areas of your home.
There is also evidence that a dehumidifier can help people with asthma breathe easier.
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