Whole house dehumidifiers -installation guide
Humidity in Atlanta can be challenging from March through October, and even in December and January, there are periods of discomfort. While properly sized air conditioners remove some moisture, certain times of the year pose difficulties.
In spring and fall, when air conditioning may not seem necessary, humidity can still accumulate indoors. Oversized air conditioning systems also cool too quickly and shut off before sufficient moisture is removed, leaving the space feeling cool yet clammy.
Whole-house dehumidifiers solve these problems by operating whenever the relative humidity exceeds a certain level – typically around 50%. Whole-house dehumidifiers can be set much lower than an air conditioning unit, and unlike air conditioners, they do not require any temperature to operate. Read out our Whole House Dehumidifiers Installation Guide to find out details.
How To Install Whole house dehumidifiers– Read And Explore!
Whole-house dehumidifiers are designed to be much more useful than portable dehumidifiers. Instead of dealing with a single area of the house, whole-house dehumidifiers are connected to the HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system and ductwork (a system of metal or plastic tubes that distribute air throughout the home). It also maintains a healthy humidity level, keeping the relative humidity around 45% to 50%.
These systems expedite the return of humid air, along with the removal of excess moisture, through a dedicated return duct (a separate set of air passages used only for air being pulled to the dehumidifier). The dry air is then returned to the supply plenum (the main air distribution box connected to the ductwork). They function even when the air conditioner is off, which is great for the spring and fall when it’s humid. During this time, these systems capture more energy and reserve dew point control for later use without incurring a delta in energy returned.
Best Effective Installation Method Over the Years
Most professionals nowadays recommend connecting a dehumidifier with a dedicated return duct (a separate air pathway for the dehumidifier) to the supply plenum (the main air distribution chamber that supplies air to the various rooms).
First, this setup preserves static pressure (the air pressure within the duct system that affects airflow). Second, it allows the dehumidifier to operate without needing to run the air conditioner. Lastly, it prevents dry air from contacting moisture on the evaporator coil (the cold part of the air conditioner that removes heat and moisture from the air).
Most of the indoor energy is spent on returning this air dry which relative to old systems, requires less energy. It is common for people to remark that the new air, when introduced to the supply plenum, is warmer, but this is soon balanced off by the air cycle.
Related Article: What Does A Dehumidifier Do And How Does A Dehumidifier Work?
Whole House Dehumidifier: How To Install Step By Step
You can easily install a whole-house dehumidifier by following these simple steps.
Selecting the Best Position
Install the dehumidifier in the attic, basement, or mechanical room near the HVAC handler. These locations offer suitable weight support, adequate airflow, and ease of maintenance, helping to optimize ductwork efficiency.
To reduce noise and vibration, the unit is mounted to steel support bars and secured with brackets. Additional support may be needed beneath the unit for drainage and stability. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure access for service and maintenance.
The dehumidifier ties into the existing supply ductwork (the system of tubes that distributes conditioned air throughout the house) via a dedicated return air grille (a vent or cover with slats that pulls in air from the home so it can be dehumidified). This configuration draws humid air from the center of the house and distributes dry air evenly. All joints in ductwork should be sealed with mastic tape (a thick, adhesive sealing tape used on ductwork) to avoid air leaks that can increase operating costs and static pressure (the resistance to airflow in the ducts).
Draining Moisture and Humidity Controls
Each time dehumidification occurs, moisture must be released outside. To maintain proper flow, a PVC drain line (a plastic pipe specially designed to carry away water produced during dehumidification) must be laid, always placed gently downhill, with a consistent downward slope. Not under the home’s foundation, always away from the home’s foundation, to prevent any possible water damage. Whenever possible, try to avoid clogs to eliminate possible surplus moisture.
The entire system is controlled by a humidistat (a device that measures and turns on or off the dehumidifier depending on the humidity level), usually mounted close to the air vent. Factory default settings typically range from 45% to 55% humidity, but can be adjusted as needed. You can control the whole system from an HVAC thermostat (the device that sets the temperature and controls heating, cooling, and sometimes humidity) or a mobile device when advanced technology is used.
How to Select an HVAC Dehumidifier Suited to Your House
Too much moisture in the air can lead to a sticky feeling in the house, encourage the growth of mold, and even put a heavy load on the AC system. HVAC dehumidifiers can also provide a comfortable environment within the house, in addition to protecting furniture and flooring, and maintaining the overall air quality. You can determine which HVAC system works best for you as long as you consider the relevant factors.
Step 1: Use an Instrument to Assess the Relative Humidity
It’s smarter to first establish an effective strategy to determine the relative humidity in the home. The EPA recommends a relative humidity level of 30% to 50% to maintain a comfortable and healthy home environment.
Measuring the relative humidity in different rooms over a few days and recording the results is a clever use of a hygrometer. You should take particular note of the bathrooms, kitchens, and the basement because there is a relative abundance of moisture in those areas. Pinpointing these moisture hotspots is essential to determine the capacity required in an HVAC dehumidifier.
Step 2: The Dehumidifier Should Be Sized Appropriately
Sizing of the dehumidifier is critical. A unit that is oversized will waste a lot of energy, whereas a smaller unit will result in a failure to keep up.
Moderately damp space: 10–12 pints of moisture removal per 500 sq. ft.
Very damp space: 12–15 pints per 500 sq. ft.
When doing this calculation, also take into account:
The total square footage of the house.
The number of people living in the house (because an individual also generates moisture through breathing, cooking, and showering).
Sources of moisture include laundry rooms, basement areas, and kitchens.
Step 3: Review Energy Efficiency Ratings.
Dehumidifiers are almost always on, so running them inefficiently can add up.
Pick Energy Star® certified HVAC dehumidifiers. They are at least 13-21% more efficient than standard models.
Always check the Energy Factor (EF) rating. The higher the EF rating, the more moisture is removed per kilowatt-hour used.
With high-efficiency models, you enjoy the peace of mind that comes with long-term savings, without sacrificing performance.
Step 4: Review Specifications, Features, and Smart Controls.
Dehumidifiers nowadays have the capacity to do more than just extract moisture. They are designed to have certain conveniences:
Automated and shut off. This helps to shut the machine down to reduce energy waste and to prevent overflow.
Wi-Fi capable equipment. This allows the installer to monitor the device and adjust settings remotely, even when they are not physically present.
Silent functionality. This is crucial for placing the device in areas the user will reside in.
These features enhance the unit’s efficiency and alleviate the burden of maintaining desirable indoor settings throughout the year.
With every new HVAC system, check if it includes a dehumidification function. This feature should be integrated so the whole-house dehumidifier works with the entire HVAC system. A professional installer will ensure the unit is properly incorporated with the ductwork (air tubes), return grilles (vents for air return), and drain system for best moisture control.
With every new HVAC system, check the incorporated dehumidification. This must be integrated with the HVAC system to a whole-house dehumidifier to ensure effective moisture control. Professional system installation ensures that the unit is integrated with the ductwork, return grills, and drain system for effective moisture control.
Advantages of Correct Installation
A dehumidifier installed by a professional offers
Comfort in all
Reduced the chance of mold, mildew, and musty smell.
Reduced energy costs by decreasing the strain on the AC.
Better preservation of the wood flooring, furniture, and electronics.
Improved quality of air indoors.
Other Ways of Connecting a Dehumidifier
In some cases, integrating a supply plenum connection may not be possible due to the physical constraints of the home. In the to “comfort in the home” scenario, the dehumidifier return still goes directly to the used HVAC return. In this scenario, the dry air-cooled temperature may drop, but the air handler fan must run. Some energy will be spent, but comfort in the home will be achieved. With the dry air circulating back over the evaporator coil. While less effort may be achieved than the preferred design, this scenario can still serve as a backup plan.
The Benchmark of Fresh Air Ventilation
Imagine a home with little stagnant and humid air. Over and beyond placing the dehumidifier centrally in the house, new, fresh air can be drawn from outdoors, filtered, and dried before being circulated. Even if the air is exposed to outdoor elements, this dehumidifier with a fresh air function helps bring fresh air indoors.
In extremely airtight homes, this is a fabulous feature. In the opposite extreme of a drafty house, fresh and clean air can be brought in without the torture of fetid outdoor elements. Homeowners can set the air with smart home systems to control the intake and keep the air debris-free. The comfort conditions will then stay the same, no matter what the temperature it is outside.
What to Expect in Terms of Energy Efficiency
A whole-house dehumidifier works best when viewed as a comfort upgrade, not as an energy saver. Yes, it uses electricity, but most homeowners will not even notice the charges because they can keep the thermostat set at a much higher temperature in the summer. The air conditioner works harder when the humidity is higher, but the added humidity makes it run more efficiently, which reduces the energy cost. The net effect is more comfort and healthier air at a modest price increase.
Key Benefits of Installing a Whole-House Dehumidifier
A whole-house dehumidifier is advantageous because it provides consistent comfort throughout all seasons, protects against mold and mildew, and promotes healthier indoor air quality. It lets you raise your thermostat and still feel comfortable, reduces the load on your HVAC system, offers some degree of filtered fresh air circulation, and is a must for homeowners in densely populated areas like Atlanta, GA, with high humidity to keep the home comfortable all year. It gives immediate and lasting results.
Related Article: Top Benefits of Installing a Whole House Dehumidifier
Whole house dehumidifiers -installation guide- FAQS
How much is the installation?
Varies based on the unit size, ductwork, and labor. The homeowner can expect to pay within the range of 2000-5000 dollars for a whole-house dehumidifier.
Can I install a whole-house dehumidifier myself?
Due to the presence of ductwork and static pressure balancing, as well as HVAC control integration, we highly recommend professional installation.
How long does the installation take?
Most installations are completed within a day; however, more complicated ductwork can take longer and require additional work.
How long do these systems last?
An entire house dehumidifier typically lasts 8 to 12 years with proper maintenance.
Do I still need a portable dehumidifier?
No. Every whole-house unit is designed to control the humidity level throughout the entire house, eliminating the need for portable units.
Whole house dehumidifiers -installation guide -Just Simple And Effective
Installing a whole-house dehumidifier is one of the best improvements for homes in humid areas. Especially for the HVAC system, using best-practice methods like a dedicated return-to-supply connection ensures that humidity levels are lower, along with an improvement in air efficiency and quality. For homeowners in Atlanta, where humidity is prevalent throughout the year, a properly installed system can enhance comfort in any weather condition, year-round.
