Do Dehumidifiers Work With Windows Open? The Good & Bad

Dehumidifiers are known for pulling moisture out of the air. And indeed, they work!

However, Do dehumidifiers work with windows open?

Unfortunately, dehumidifiers will not work well when windows are open. When the windows are open, the constant moist air will affect your dehumidifier’s drying process, which can lead to mold and mildew.

Why Using a Dehumidifier With Open Windows Is Not A Good Idea?

Suppose you live in an area with high humidity. In that case, your dehumidifier must be working as efficiently as possible.

In these cases, you may want to consider keeping your windows closed and using a humidistat to control the humidity level in your home.

So if you’re concerned about the humidity level in your home, it’s best to keep your windows closed when using a dehumidifier.

Here are 5 reasons why using a dehumidifier with open windows is not a good idea. They include:

1. Reduces Effectiveness

Suppose there is a constant flow of moist air coming in from outside. In that case, it will be challenging for the dehumidifier to keep up. It could even lead the dehumidifier to overheat and break.

2. Increases Coverage Area

Dehumidifiers often come with a specific coverage area.

When the windows are open, more air and humidity come into the home. And the dehumidifier will have to work harder to cover the same area. 

3. It Increases the Coverage Area

Opening windows significantly increases the humid air the device has to cover. 

Sometimes, this can cause the dehumidifier to work harder and break down prematurely.

4. Creates Humid Conditions

In addition to reducing the effectiveness of your dehumidifier, opening windows also create humid conditions ideal for mold and mildew growth.

So if you’re concerned about the humidity level in your home, it’s best to keep your windows closed when using a dehumidifier.

5. Increases Energy Bills

Since the device has to work harder when the windows are open, it will use more energy and increase your monthly bills.

Suppose you’re looking to save money on your energy bill. In that case, it’s best to keep your windows closed when using a dehumidifier.

If you wonder whether a dehumidifier uses a lot of energy? Then check out this post.

How To Use A Dehumidifier Effectively

If you want to get the most, you want to do the following:

• Close All the Doors And Windows: As I mentioned, you want to ensure that there is no moist air coming in from outside. The best way to do this is to close all the doors and windows in your home.

• Use It When You Need It: It would be best if you only used the dehumidifier when needed. If you’re not home, there is no need to have it running. If the humidity level outside is low, you can turn the device off and open the windows to let in some fresh air.

• Get A Humidistat: A humidistat is a device that measures the level of humidity in your home. By getting one of these, you can set the dehumidifier to turn on only when the humidity level gets too high. It will save you energy and money.

• Clean Filters And Coils Regularly: You want to make sure that you clean the filters and coils on your dehumidifier regularly. Doing this will help it run more efficiently and last longer.

• Get the Right Size For Your Home: Dehumidifiers come in different sizes, so you want to ensure that you get one that is the right size for your home. If you have a large home, you will need a larger dehumidifier. But if you have a small house, you can get away with a smaller one. If you are wondering how many dehumidifiers are needed, you can check out this post.

• Check The Tank Often: Be sure to check the tank often and empty it when it gets full. If you don’t, the dehumidifier will stop working correctly.

Make Sure the Unit Is Not Blocked

Place the dehumidifier in a central location and ensure furniture or curtains are not blocking it. You want the unit to be able to circulate the air properly.

Check the Drainage Hose Regularly

Sometimes, the drainage hose can become clogged. Be sure to check it regularly and clean it out if necessary. 

Also, you want to ensure it is connected correctly to the unit. So that water doesn’t leak out.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your dehumidifier will work effectively and last many years.

Should You Close Your Door When Using A Dehumidifier?

Indoor:

Suppose you have a dehumidifier that only works for a small room or area. Then, closing your room’s door will reduce the room’s humidity more effectively.

But, if your dehumidifier can handle the size of the whole house closing the doors will not be necessary.

Outdoor:

When you close all doors to the outside, you trap the air inside, helping the dehumidifier get rid of humidity properly.

You also want to close the windows in your home as this will help to keep the humidity levels low. If the humidity level gets too high, it can lead to mold and mildew growth.

What Is Better Windows Open Or Using A Dehumidifier?

Opening windows can be an excellent way to air your home and eliminate musty smells. But if you’re concerned about the humidity in your home, it’s best to use a dehumidifier.

Dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air, which can help prevent mold and mildew growth.

And while open windows can also help to reduce the humidity in your home, using a dehumidifier is usually more effective.

So if you’re looking to reduce the humidity in your home, it’s best to use a dehumidifier.

Final Thoughts- Is It Ok To Run a Dehumidifier With The Windows Open

While you can open windows when the dehumidifier is running, it will reduce the device’s effectiveness and may cause it to work harder.

For this reason, it is best to keep your windows closed when using a dehumidifier.

Hopefully, this article has helped answer your question.

Do you have any other questions about dehumidifiers? Leave a comment below, and I’ll be happy to answer them.

And if you are looking for a dehumidifier for your metal building, check out these top 5 choices.