When your home suffers from water damage, it’s crucial to dry it out properly. A dehumidifier can be a great tool to help with this task. Here’s how you can use a dehumidifier to dry water damage.
A moderately wet carpet of 7 feet by 7 feet could dry within 10 to 48 hours. This is because the dehumidifier pulls moisture from the carpet and the air, while the fans help to speed up the evaporation process.
However, if the carpet is heavily soaked, it might take longer, possibly up to a few days. If you’re using a household dehumidifier or just letting the carpet air dry, it could take several days to a week.
Step 1: Remove Standing Water
Before you start using a dehumidifier, you need to get rid of any standing water. A dehumidifier won’t remove standing water; it’s designed to pull moisture from the air. So, you need to mop up or pump out the water first.
Step 2: Clear the Area
Move wet furniture and personal items to another room. Well, these soggy items are like roadblocks on the highway to Dryville. They slow down the drying process and increase the chances of damage or mold. It’s faster to dry everything separately.
Step 3: Set Up the Dehumidifier
Now, it’s time to bring in the big guns. Place a commercial or structural drying dehumidifier smack dab in the center of the room. These bad boys are designed to pull water from walls and flooring. They are more effective than household models, which can take weeks to dry your home.
Step 4: Use High-Volume Fans
Air movement is key to drying. High-velocity fans can help water evaporate quickly, making it easier for dehumidifiers to pull the moisture out of the air. These fans, also known as blowers or drying fans, can significantly reduce drying time.
Step 5: Empty the Dehumidifier Regularly
The dehumidifier will shut off when it’s full, so you need to empty it often. Some models allow you to attach a drain hose, which can keep it running constantly and dry your home faster.
Step 6: Adjust the Humidity Setting
If you’re using a household dehumidifier, adjust the relative humidity control to the lowest setting. This prevents the unit from shutting off and reduces drying time.
Where to Rent a Dehumidifier for Water Damage
If you don’t own a commercial drying dehumidifier, you can rent one from most equipment rental companies. The cost usually ranges between $40 and $60 per day, with many companies offering lower weekly rates.
Will a Dehumidifier Dry Out Damp Walls?
Yes, a commercial drying dehumidifier can help dry out damp walls. It’s designed to pull water from walls and flooring. However, the drying time will vary depending on the amount of water, the size of the area, the moisture levels, and the capacity of the model. As a general rule, commercial dehumidifiers take between 24 and 48 hours to dry an area, while household models can take a week or more.
Remember, drying out your home after water damage is more than just removing standing water. It’s about using the right equipment and techniques to ensure your home is dry and safe from further damage.