For boat owners, owning a boat comes with huge responsibilities. You have to maintain your boat, keeping it up and running. Another thing to consider in maintaining a boat is the moisture in the vessel, which could cause mold, mildew, an unpleasant odor, and dust mite build-up. There are ways that boat owners could do to prevent these from happening; getting a dehumidifier for your sailboat is one way.
What is a dehumidifier? A boat dehumidifier is a device that absorbs moisture and keeps the air dry and fresh. It prevents mold, mildew, bacteria, and unpleasant odor inside the boat. A dehumidifier is ideal for winter when sailboats are not in use, and it is also handy for vessels that are often sailing.
Choosing a dehumidifier for your boat depends on the environment in which you sail and your preference. Boat humidifiers come in various sizes and models. Here is a guide to help you choose a humidifier for your boat.
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing a Boat Dehumidifier
We have listed things to consider before purchasing a boat dehumidifier. These factors will help you choose the right one for you.
Size
The size of the boat dehumidifier depends on the size of your boat. If you have a wide cabin, opt for a dehumidifier that can cover the whole space. But if your area is small, choose a suitable compact design.
You should consider your cabin space for you to be able to choose the right dehumidifier for your vessel. Choose a model that will serve the whole area.
Materials
Another significant factor in choosing a boat dehumidifier is the materials used. Seawater exposure could be damaging to the dehumidifier. The materials should be durable and corrosion-resistant.
When choosing a dehumidifier for your boat, the materials used should be resistant enough to withstand seawater conditions. It is best to avoid a device made with materials that are not long-lasting.
Drainage System
Some dehumidifier uses a vent or hose to release moisture, while others have a holding tank that requires manual draining. However, a device with a built-in vent or hose automatically drains the water and does not need to be emptied.
It is your preference which drainage system works for you. But most buyers prefer a dehumidifier with a built-in vent because it is hassle-free. The user won’t have to empty the tank constantly.
Safety
Every electrical device we purchase has to have safety features against electrical issues, especially when it comes to devices for your boat. A boat dehumidifier should have features that would protect you and your co-boaters from harm.
A boat dehumidifier should also have a mechanism that keeps the device from moving or rolling when sailing. Make sure it has fasteners or bolts to keep it in place. This way, it ensures the safety of the device.
Moisture Extraction Rate
When sailing, the amount of dampness is high. A boat dehumidifier should catch up with the demand of being able to extract water. Choose a device that covers a large amount of moisture in a day.
A dehumidifier is essential, especially during the winter season. During this period, when the boat is not in use, it is best to have a device that will absorb moisture. It will also prevent molds and bacteria build-up.
User-Friendly Controls
Another factor to consider when buying a dehumidifier, it should have user-friendly controls. This feature enables easy operation for the user. It also provides comfort and convenience to consumers.
Warranty
Each device that buyers purchase should come with a warranty. A warranty offers security and protection to the consumer in case of a product malfunction within a period.
A warranty also helps consumers to select a dehumidifier for their boats.
Types of Boat Dehumidifiers
Boat dehumidifiers have three main types. Select a dehumidifier that suits the environment you will sail. There are suitable dehumidifiers for the dry or winter season.
Compressor-Driven Dehumidifiers
Compressor-driven dehumidifiers work like air conditioners. They take in air, let it through a filter, and pass it over to cold coils. The coils cool, which results in water condensation. The water will drip onto the holding tank or bucket and needs manual draining. However, there are types of compressor-driven dehumidifiers that work with a vent or hose for continuous drainage.
If you choose this type of dehumidifier, you should consider attaching a hose to the bucket for hassle-free utilization.
Thermo-Electric Dehumidifiers
Thermo-electric dehumidifiers do not have moving parts. But they use small but powerful fans to circulate the air. It happens when an electric current passes through two metals, known as the Peltier Effect. The heat transfers from one metal to another, which results in dehumidification.
These dehumidifiers do not have humidistats or compressors and do not produce a sound. They are also cost-effective because they have fewer parts. However, they take time to eliminate moisture.
Desiccant Dehumidifiers
Desiccant dehumidifiers use a chemical, typically Calcium Chloride or Zeolite, to absorb moisture. They have a built-in fan that draws the air into the dehumidifier and through a wheel that holds the chemicals. As a result, the air dries.
A typical example of desiccant dehumidifiers is hanging bags that do not use energy and are cost-effective.
Benefits of Using a Boat Dehumidifier
Dehumidifiers provide benefits for you and your boat.
– prevents bacteria, mildew, and molds
– protects wood-based structures in the cabin
– regulates clean air
– provides comfort and convenience
– prevents dustmites build-up
In conclusion, there are three types of boat dehumidifiers, compressor-driven, thermo-electric, and desiccant. They offer different functions and features to satisfy consumers. It is up to the consumers which type of dehumidifiers they will purchase.
Having a dehumidifier on your boat is a good investment. It protects your cabin from molds, mildew, bacteria, and dust mite build-up. It also provides well-being and is beneficial to your health. A humidifier provides you with comfort and convenience.
It is significant to know your preference when buying a dehumidifier. Choose the device that will check all your requirements. It is also vital that you are satisfied with the one you purchased.