Dehumidifiers and Allergies

Dehumidifiers are excellent defense mechanisms against many allergies because they control overly humid environments that breed bacteria, dust mites, and other harmful agents such as mold. All of these agents can trigger allergy attacks. These machines work by extracting moisture from the air, which is collected in a receptacle, drained through a gravity hose, or pumped out using a condensate pump. These units are easy to set up, use, and maintain.

The Importance of Balanced Humidity

The ideal humidity level for your home should be between 45 and 50%. Keeping moisture in balance is important because of the negative effects of overly high or too-low humidity. Overly high humidity can cause allergy symptoms to intensify. The following allergy triggers can grow rapidly in moist environments:

• Mold
• Mildew
• Dust mites
• Bacteria

High humidity allows pollutants to become trapped in the air where they linger indefinitely. The growth of pollutants and humidity also causes a musty smell and can make fabrics and furniture feel damp. If left unchecked, high humidity can also cause condensation to form on windows and cold, hard surfaces. Additionally, long-term high humidity can begin to degrade the foundation and structure of your home.
Overly dry environments create another set of problems. When the moisture level is too low, you may experience:

• Sinus infections
• Sore throats
• Dry, flaky skin
• Dry, itchy eyes
• Feel dehydrated

To find the right moisture level in your indoor environment, dehumidifiers generally come with a built-in dehumidistat (if not, these can be bought separately) to allow you to set the machine to your desired level of humidity. Also, using a dehumidifier in conjunction with an air purifier can dramatically reduce the number of indoor air pollutants that can aggravate your allergy symptoms. Air purifiers clean the air of pollutants so there is less chance of you inhaling airborne allergens, which might aggravate allergy symptoms.

Where You Need a Dehumidifier Most

For allergy-sufferers, there are particular locations where a dehumidifier can have a positive impact on your air quality and allergy symptoms.

• Humid Climates — Dehumidifiers can make a dramatic impact on your indoor moisture level if you live in a very humid climate. These climates are often more difficult for allergy-sufferers to remain symptom-free. Because many geographical areas are humid year round, a dehumidifier can help create an indoor oasis of relief from the high level of moisture that can make allergy symptoms a constant problem.
  

• Humid Areas - Basements, bathrooms, and kitchens are the three most common areas that exhibit a high-humidity problem. (Indoor pools and spas will contribute to the humidity level in your home as well.) These are also the places that can easily be the breeding grounds for mold, mildew (a specific type of mold), and other harmful bacteria. Balancing the moisture level in these areas helps to prevent the air you breathe from carrying pollutants that can negatively impact your allergies.

Your indoor environment needs to be free of the elements that trigger allergy attacks, including dust mites, mold, and pollutant-saturated air. A dehumidifier can address these allergens. If you wonder if a dehumidifier can make a difference in your space, try one out for yourself. Sylvane.com offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all its products. You have nothing to lose, and only allergy-free living to gain.

Still Got Questions?

For more information on specific products and ways to improve your indoor environment, review our extensive product listings and other educational materials. Not sure what's best for you? We can take the guess work out of decision-making. Contact our product experts toll free at 1 (800) 934-9194 for a detailed consultation. Our goal is to make your indoor environment healthy and comfortable.

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