You may only use your basement for storing tools, equipment, and other goods, making it easy to forget it’s even there. However, the basement is just as important as the rest of the house. And if it’s not looked after properly, it can have a serious impact on the value of your home and your quality of life. One way to look at your basement properly is using a basement or small room dehumidifier. Below are 5 signs you need to invest in one today.
SEE ALSO: Basement Dehumidifier Reviews
1. Your Allergies Are Getting Worse
If you suffer from allergies, you may have noticed that your symptoms get worse during humid and damp times of the year. This could be due to the dust mites in the air and mold growth (which can affect those with allergies just as pollen would). Although basements may not be occupied as often as other living spaces, the air from the basement rises and is inhaled throughout the rest of the house. If you are suffering from these allergy symptoms and cannot find any harmful causes in your home, look to your basement and consider installing a dehumidifier to reduce the risks associated with poor air quality.
2. Damp
Any kind of damp in your basement should be investigated thoroughly before the issue spreads and causes more damage. Damp could be due to a range of issues, such as leaks. However, in many cases, damp is caused by the lack of proper ventilation and can be controlled by a dehumidifier. If you rarely use your basement, and therefore rarely ventilate it.
3. Mold Growth
Spotting mold growing in your basement is one of the greatest indicators that you need a basement dehumidifier. As soon as any mold is spotted, you need to reduce the risk immediately (as it can get worse quickly, making it harder to remove). Mold is caused by excess moisture and can be extremely dangerous to people if left untreated. Seriously consider a basement dehumidifier if you’ve got mold growing in your basement.
4. Bad Odor
Basements may not always have the visible signs of mold and/or damp on the floors and walls, but they may have an awful “damp” smell instead. These smells are an indication of something not being right in your basement and are usually caused by some form of mold in the area. It may be that an area of your basement became wet and dried while you were away. Whatever the case, it is best to invest proactively in a dehumidifier and then investigate further.
5. Condensation on Your Windows
Sometimes condensation can appear and not be a problem; however, if you’ve noticed a substantial increase in the amount of condensation appearing on your basement windows, you may have a problem with circulation in the area. Basement dehumidifiers will aid in getting rid of the excess moisture in the air, preventing the problem from worsening.
If you have any of these issues, you’ll benefit from a basement dehumidifier. Not only will it improve the conditions of your basement, it will also increase the quality of your entire home environment.
