Dehumidifiers are appliances used to reduce the humidity levels in a room or an entire building. They are particularly useful in preventing mildew, mold, and dampness that can lead to various health hazards. However, many people wonder whether dehumidifiers work in cold temperatures since most models are designed to function optimally in warm environments.
How Dehumidifiers Work
Before answering the question, it is essential to understand how dehumidifiers work. These appliances use a fan to draw in the air in the room or space and pass it through a cold metal coil. As the air passes through the coil, the water vapor in the air condenses on it, forming water droplets that are collected in a tank or drained away through a pipe. The dried air is then released back into the room, reducing humidity levels in the process.
Dehumidifiers and Cold Temperatures
Most manufacturers recommend using dehumidifiers in environments with temperatures above 65°F (18°C). This is because lower temperatures can affect the appliance’s efficiency and even halt its function altogether. When the coil in a dehumidifier is too cold, it can ice up, preventing air from passing through and reducing the appliance’s capacity to extract water from the air. This can also lead to damage to the unit’s internal components.
Using Dehumidifiers in Cold Environments
However, this does not mean that dehumidifiers cannot work in cold temperatures. There are dehumidifiers specifically designed to function in low temperatures. These models usually have a defrost function that automatically defrosts the coil when it begins to ice up, preventing air blockages and ensuring optimal function. If you live in an area with cold temperatures, it is essential to buy a dehumidifier that can function in such an environment.
The Bottom Line
Dehumidifiers are excellent appliances when it comes to reducing humidity levels in homes, workplaces, and other spaces. While most models work well in environments with higher temperatures, it is still possible to use dehumidifiers in colder temperatures. You need to ensure that you buy a dehumidifier specifically designed to function in low temperatures, usually below 65°F (18°C), to ensure optimal function and avoid damage to the appliance.
