If you live in Illinois, you’re likely familiar with cold winters and moderate to humid summers. With this mix of temperatures and moisture levels, homeowners often wonder whether installing a dehumidifier in their crawl space is necessary. The answer depends on several factors, including your home’s ventilation, insulation, and humidity levels. Let’s explore whether a crawl space dehumidifier is right for you.
Understanding Climate Zone 5
Climate Zone 5 covers much of the Midwest and Northeast, including states like Illinois, Pennsylvania, and parts of New York. This region experiences a full range of seasons, from freezing winters to warm, humid summers. The fluctuating conditions greatly contribute to moisture accumulation in crawl spaces, which, if left unaddressed, can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and poor indoor air quality.
Signs You Need a Crawl Space Dehumidifier
A dehumidifier can help regulate moisture levels, but it’s not always necessary. Here are some signs that your crawl space may benefit from one:
1. High Humidity Levels – If the relative humidity in your crawl space consistently exceeds 60%, it creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew.
2. Musty Odors – A persistent damp or musty smell in your home may indicate excessive moisture buildup in the crawl space.
3. Visible Mold Growth – If you notice mold on wooden beams or insulation, high humidity is a likely culprit.
4. Condensation on Pipes or Ducts – Moisture buildup on surfaces in the crawl space suggests an ongoing humidity issue.
5. Pest Infestation – Bugs and rodents thrive in damp environments, so an increase in pests could mean your crawl space is too humid.
6. Cupping Floors – Excess moisture can cause wood flooring above the crawl space to warp or cup.
Factors to consider before purchasing a dehumidifier:
1. Ventilation: Older homes often have vented crawl spaces, which can allow humid air to enter. Sealing vents can reduce moisture intrusion. If your vents are open, running a dehumidifier will not help.
2. Insulation: Proper insulation, such as rigid foam board along crawl space walls, helps regulate temperature and prevent condensation.
3. Drainage and Waterproofing: If water pools in your crawl space due to poor drainage, a dehumidifier alone won’t solve the problem. Address drainage issues first.
4. Vapor Barriers: A high-quality vapor barrier installed on the crawl space floor and walls can help prevent ground moisture from seeping in, and is a must have if you’re trying to dehumidify your crawl space. This system is called Crawl Space Encapsulation.
When is a Dehumidifier Necessary?
If you’ve sealed the vents, insulated the walls, installed a vapor barrier on the ground and walls, and ensured proper drainage but still struggle with high humidity, a dehumidifier is a good investment. It will help maintain consistent humidity levels, improve air quality, and protect your home’s structural integrity.
What dehumidifier should I purchase?
- Consider purchasing a commercial model instead of a cheap portable dehumidifier from a big box store. The cheap portable ones will cost more to run and have been known to start house fires.
- Purchase a dehumidifier that is specifically designed to be in a crawl space.
- Be sure to get a properly sized dehumidifier. This will depend on how large or small your crawl space is.
- Make sure your dehumidifier has an automatic humidistat so you can set it and forget it.
What benefits is a dehumidifier going to provide?
1. Reduces Mold & Mildew Growth – High humidity encourages mold and mildew, which can damage your home and cause health issues. A dehumidifier helps maintain a balanced moisture level.
2. Prevents Dust Mites & Allergens – Dust mites and other allergens thrive in humid conditions. Lowering humidity can help alleviate allergies and improve air quality.
3. Improves Air Quality – A dehumidifier removes excess moisture, reducing musty odors and making the air feel fresher and cleaner.
4. Protects Your Home & Belongings – Excess humidity can damage wood furniture, flooring, walls, and even electronics. A dehumidifier helps prevent warping, rotting, and corrosion.
5. Reduces Condensation – If you notice water droplets forming on windows, mirrors, or walls, a dehumidifier can help minimize this issue.
6. Enhances Comfort – Humid air can feel sticky and uncomfortable. Removing excess moisture makes the indoor environment feel cooler and more pleasant.
7. Increases HVAC Efficiency – Lower humidity allows your air conditioner to work more efficiently, potentially lowering energy bills.
8. Prevents Musty Odors – Damp environments often develop unpleasant smells. A dehumidifier helps eliminate these odors by controlling moisture.
9. Reduces Pest Problems – Many pests, such as cockroaches and silverfish, thrive in humid conditions. A dehumidifier can help make your home less inviting to them.
Conclusion
In Climate Zone 5, whether you need a crawl space dehumidifier depends on your home’s specific moisture conditions. If humidity remains high despite other preventive measures, a dehumidifier can be a smart addition to protect your home from mold, pests, and structural damage. Regularly monitoring your crawl space humidity levels will help you determine if a dehumidifier is necessary to maintain a healthy home environment.
As you consider the health of your home and what steps you need to take to ensure your crawl space is protected, be sure to contact a company you can trust. Sealtite Insulation & Slabjacking has offered professional crawl space encapsulation and dehumidification services since 2004 and has 600 reviews on Google with a 4.9 rating.
Call the Pro’s at Sealtite today for a free estimate!
855-692-3626