Using a dehumidifier in a concrete basement a good idea?
Just wondering if I should be using a dehumidifier in my concrete basement. Noticing several cracks in the basement floor. It may be due to settling of the foundation as the house is two years old. But I read somewhere that running a dehumidifier will dry out the concrete too much causing even more cracking. Is this true? Currently, the cracks are limited to the floor and are mostly hairline cracks. There has been no flooding in the basement, no mildew smell, nor water seeping from the cracks. Thanks!
Answers:
It is not true that it causes cracks, my basement is 16 years old, and there are just hairline cracks, the same ones from when we moved in, we run a dehumidifier on a regular basis
Other answers:
yes
yes
a basement is usually moister in the Summer.
mine runs at least 12 hours a day and produces 20 gals of moisture/water within 3-4 days and I have NO cracks,or mildew smell
Then why do it? I would you spend the money on hiring someone to inspect the damage to let you know exactly what to fix. I doubt it is internal moisture. Sounds like stress related, maybe the footing for the foundation wall...but hire an expert for this, save mega bucks in the long run.
...jj
I used to run one in my concrete basement and never noticed any drying out. But perhaps the best thing to do would be to call a contractor that does concrete and ask them.
Still a good idea to use one and will keep your storage items in better cond.Also appliances and plumbing fictures.
most dehumidifiers have a control that sets the percentage you wish to maintain. start about 55%
running a dehumidifier is expensive. it is my op pinion it is better to install a bathroom fan on the wall 6 to 8 inches from the basement floor,vent it directly to the outside,and let it run 24/7 or at least 12 hours a day. it will work great and cost alot less to install and less on electrical bills too
Measure the humidity in the basement over several weeks. If it is high put one in for mold and mildew control and prevention.Set it to a normal setting for your area.You don't have to suck out every drop of moisture.
no it's not true by all means keep the humidifier going it will help
Unless the water freezes, moisture does not cause cracks. And dehumidifiers cannot break the chemical bonds in concrete. So use the damn machine all you want.