UPDATED: December 29, 2023
Looking for a permanent dehumidification system that will help solve the issues you are having with moisture and humidity issues in your basement? You have come to the right place.
Before we get into the specifics and recommended models of dehumidifiers, we want to explain basic problems that indicate the need for a unit in your basement.
What Causes a Wet Basement?
Excess moisture in basements is very common. The soil and ground that surround your home can easily transfer inside through walls, windows, vents, and more. Most basements have limited amounts of sunlight and airflow that also prohibit moisture from escaping. Excess moisture can lead to higher indoor humidity and mold growth. If you are experiencing any of the issues listed below, adding a dehumidifier to your basement will help prevent mold and mildew in your home or property.
How to Identify & Resolve Basement Mold Issues
Does your basement feel “wet?”
If you walk down into your basement and your skin feels tangibly damp, humidity levels are higher than they should be. If the ground surrounding your home is wet and your basement is not, there is huge potential for the water to enter your home; water disperses from areas of high concentration to those of low concentration.
Did you know…1 inch of rain is equal to 27,154 gallons of water (per acre). That means 1 inch of rain on a 2,800 sq. ft. house is equal to 1,743 gallons.1
Odors
Typically paired with a musty smell, high humidity is known to intensify odors. A musty smell in the basement can indicate a variety of problems including the growth of mold and/or mildew, or even possible rot.
Measured Humidity Level 55%+
The surest way to know if you are having humidity issues in your basement is to purchase a hygrometer and measure your basement’s humidity level yourself. Not to worry, an inexpensive ($10) hygrometer will do the job. If the meter reads greater than 55% humidity, you know your basement is more humid than it should be.
Dust Mites
Dust mites, microscopic bugs that feed on human skin flakes, are in roughly 4 out of 5 homes in the United States, according to the American Lung Association(1). Exposure to dust mites can cause severe allergic reactions and trigger asthma. A great way to fight these common pests is to keep your home’s humidity level below 50% which keeps them from multiplying – including in your basement.
Frost/Ice Build Up
If you see frost and ice buildup on cold surfaces, this is another indication that the moisture level in your basement is higher than should be.
Visible Rot/Decay
The number one cause of rot in the home is the presence of high moisture levels. Wood can change color, structure, and even firmness if moisture levels are higher than normal for extended periods of time. This could result in costly structural repairs and furniture replacement.
Peeling/Cracking Paint
Blistering, cracking or peeling paint on walls, floors, and other painted surfaces is also a good way to tell you’re having humidity issues.
We’ve got you covered!
The IW25 dehumidifier is a great choice for basements. When compared to a Whole House System, not only does the installation take a fraction of the time, but it’s also a fraction of the cost both to purchase and to install. The IW25 also has special features that other dehumidifiers don’t offer. In the event of a power outage, the IW25 IN-Wall/ON-Wall dehumidifier was designed to automatically restart, keeping your home protected. This dehumidification system drains directly into existing plumbing (or a hub drain if applicable), or can be used with the optional Integrated Condensate Pump, so there’s no hassle with emptying condensate from reservoir tanks.
Designed for everyday use in smaller spaces such as basements, the IW25 is energy efficient, which is good for the environment and saves you money on electric bills. Maintenance is minimal and easy, you only need to clean the easily accessible and washable/reusable filter monthly. Even better, the unit is tankless so you don’t have to worry about removing any water from the reservoir tank, or an overflowing unit. It runs quietly (sound levels 46 dbA**, comparable to a mini-refrigerator) and will not intrude your family’s daily activities but will improve comfort and health. The sleek design and wall mount installation keeps the unit nearly invisible and out of the way. The IW25 includes a 5-year warranty on parts and labor (optional accessories not included) providing moisture control and healthier air in your home for years to come.
Questions to Consider before Installing the IW25 Dehumidifier in your Basement
The IW25 dehumidifier was designed for multi-family housing but can work to maintain humidity in a range of smaller spaces including basements. Since basements are partially underground, moisture can easily infiltrate the foundation and surrounding walls. In order for the IW25 dehumidifier to help maintain moisture levels, any leaks or potential water problems will need to be addressed before installing the IW25.
- Are you currently using a portable dehumidifier to remove moisture from your space?
- What is the capacity/ how many pints of moisture will the dehumidifier remove from the air daily?
- How often does the portable dehumidifier run?
- What is the square footage of the basement?
- Is the basement unfinished or recently renovated?
- Can the dehumidifier be installed in a central location?
Contact the IDS sales team for help deciding if the IW25 is the best fit for your application.
Why we recommend the IW25 IN Wall/On Wall Dehumidification System for basements:
Tankless | Quiet | Reliable | Sleek
- Removes 33 PPD in 1,500 square feet
- Recesses IN Wall or Mounts ON Wall
- Designed to fit within 16″ O.C. stud spacing or hang on wall
- Directly in 2 x 6 walls
- Through 2 x 4 walls
- Installs easily for new construction or retrofit applications
- Sound levels less than 46 Dba**
- ETL listed
- Uses R-32 Refrigerant
- Plastic front cover w/metal chassis
- Tamper proof grill screws
- On/Off switch & humidity control behind the tamperproof front cover
- Built-in digital humidistat
- Washable/reusable air filter
- Automatic restart (in the event of power failure)
- Hardwired or Plug in Option (standard 120V outlet)
- 10′ cord
- Alternate power routing
- Tankless, drains directly to plumbing
- 10′ condensate hose
- Easily connects to hub drain, hard pipe or to a drain (depending on install location)
- Versatile drain routing
- Condensate pump available when gravity drain is not an option
If you are looking for a quick, easy, affordable solution to fight moisture in your basement, the IW25 IN Wall/ON Wall Dehumidifier is the solution for you.
Sources:
- https://www.lung.org/search?term=dust+mites#stq=dust%20mites&stp=1
- https://www.usgs.gov/special-topic/water-science-school/science/rain-and-precipitation?qt-science_center_objects=0#qt-science_center_objects
*Layout and moisture conditions vary in every apartment and home; in typical conditions, the IW25 can maintain the RH of 59% or less but is not guaranteed.
**dBA is tested in a controlled environment; levels may vary due to install and install location
