Ask Experts Questions for FREE Help !
Ask
    logan176's Avatar
    logan176 Posts: 341, Reputation: 6
    Full Member
    		  
    #1

    Jun 15, 2009, 04:03 PM
    Extend AC to Basement or Just Use a Dehumidifier?
    During the spring and summer my unfinished basement gets pretty damp. Before I turned the dehumidifier on the humidity was at 80%. With my 2-year-old dehumidifier on... it went down to 65%. The musty smell dropped considerably, but is not totally gone. Next year I am definitely installing central air. Here's my question...

    When I install central air should I run supply lines and return lines in the basement so the AC will draw the humidity out of the basement? Or should I just buy a newer dehumidifier since my current one sounds like it's on its way out?

    BTW... down the road I will be finishing my basement, but probably not for another 8 years or so.
    wmproop's Avatar
    wmproop Posts: 3,749, Reputation: 91
    Ultra Member
    		  
    #2

    Jun 15, 2009, 05:53 PM
    Quote, When I install central air should I run supply lines and return lines in the basement so the AC will draw the humidity out of the basement? Or should I just buy a newer dehumidifier since my current one sounds like it's on its way out?


    Don`t expect the a/c to draw enough humidity out of the basement,
    Also in most cases,you will be pulling in the musky,smellie basemet air and spreading the smell throughout you home

    Stay with the portable dehumidifier or install a built-in unit with your new system
    dac122's Avatar
    dac122 Posts: 463, Reputation: 17
    Full Member
    		  
    #3

    Jun 16, 2009, 05:09 AM

    You could add supply runs, but returns would only circulate the musty smell.

    Dehumidifiers are specifically designed to remove more moisture than a typical A/C via lower fan speed and lower evap temp. And it will not cool your basement when cooling season is over. Go for a dehumidifier.
    logan176's Avatar
    logan176 Posts: 341, Reputation: 6
    Full Member
    		  
    #4

    Jun 16, 2009, 05:38 PM
    Thanks guys, I think I will forgo the supply runs until I'm ready to finish the basement. Then the primary reason will be for heating.

    When it comes to dehumidifiers, what should I be looking for in a good one? I know I have an 800 sqft basement. Do I just take that number and check the side of the box? Also, if I keep a humidistat next to the dehumidifier, is worth the extra money to get a unit with one built in?

    Feel free to post links to good units. The help is greatly appreciated.
Not your question? Ask your question View similar questions
 

Question Tools Search this Question
Search this Question:

Advanced Search


Check out some similar questions!

Icing Dehumidifier [ 2 Answers ]

Why do the condensing coils on the dehumidifier ice up? This unit is in my basement and I can feel humidity and dampness is present. The unit is set to the #3 position on the dial.

Where buy dehumidifier switch? [ 2 Answers ]

Where can I purchase dehumidifier switch for on my wall that's in condo? The switch is so old and it's going to fall off soon. It is not at Home Depot and I'm in Vancouver, BC. Thank you.

Dehumidifier not working [ 1 Answers ]

My dehumidifier has stopped removing moister. I have a hygrometer and know that my humidex is around 75%, so it should be working. It sounds like it's running fine, just not removing water. Thanks for any help.

Draining a dehumidifier [ 1 Answers ]

I am trying to drain a dehumidifier in my basement. It is stubbed (sort of) for a bathroom. There is the main drain (3 1/2" Pipe) that toilet waste as well as sink waste drains into embedded in the concrete floor, and I assume drains into the septic tank. There is another pipe (PVC, 1 1/2" )...

View more questions Search