Summer is great, but the warmer months can also be sticky and uncomfortable. Canada has a full spectrum of weather conditions, with Southern Ontario often getting extremely humid and warm with temperatures approaching 40ºC. Temperature control systems are widely used to manage heat and humidity, including household fans, air conditioners, and dehumidifiers. Air conditioners are a mainstay in most Southern Ontario homes, and dehumidifiers are increasingly used to enhance living conditions.

What is a dehumidifier?

A dehumidifier is an electrical air conditioning device designed to reduce and maintain humidity levels in the air. These devices help to provide a more comfortable living environment, which enables greater household activity and supports healthier living practices. In addition, dehumidifiers help to eliminate musty odours and prevent the growth of mould and mildew, which makes them ideal for people with asthma or allergies.

People use these devices for the following reasons:

• To create a more comfortable living environment
• To support fitness inside the home
• To reduce dust and allergens from air and surfaces
• To prevent musty odours in the home
• To improve the longevity of furniture, curtains, linen, and clothing
• To lower energy costs by reducing the need for cooling
• To create drier air and improve air quality

How does a dehumidifier work?

Dehumidifiers work by extracting water from the air. As air particles pass through the unit, water molecules are separated and dry air is expelled back into the home. There are two primary types of dehumidifiers: condensate dehumidifiers and desiccant dehumidifiers.

• Condensate dehumidifiers use a refrigerator to collect water. When extracted, water is known as condensate. While this ‘greywater’ content is normally removed, it can be reused for industrial applications or made into a vapour through ionic membrane technology. Reverse osmosis filters can transform the condensate into potable water.
• Also known as absorption dehumidifiers, desiccant dehumidifiers bond moisture instead of separating it. Hydrophilic materials like silica gel enable the bonding process. Some domestic dehumidifiers contain single-use hydrophilic substance cartridges, with commercial units containing dedicated hot air recovery systems.

How can a dehumidifier improve your air quality?

Dehumidifiers help to remove moisture content from the air. While low humidity is not always ideal, it’s often associated with greater comfort levels and improved air quality. Dry heat allows your body to cool more quickly, which relaxes your system and leads to less stress. Dry air also offers more efficient evaporation, which makes you feel cooler and more comfortable inside your home.

Additionally, humid air can lead to unwanted exposure to microorganisms, especially for people with asthma or those who suffer from allergies. While viruses and airborne bacteria can flourish in ultra-dry conditions, mould and mildew are much less likely when your home is dry and cool.

Need help with your dehumidifier?

If you’re looking to purchase, install, or maintain a dehumidifier in Southern Ontario, Aire One is here to help. We also provide air conditioning maintenance, heating solutions, and so much more. As one of the largest HVAC companies in the region, we support the local community with 9 locations, more than 150 trucks, and over 120,000 happy customers. If you want to learn more about our dehumidifiers, please contact Aire One Barrie at 705-302-1964 or request a dehumidifier estimate online.