What Will Absorb Moisture In A Room?

Moisture is defined as the presence of a liquid that contains traces amounts of water. 

Humidity refers to the concentration of water vapor in a gaseous state that exists in the air

What will absorb moisture in a room?

Absorbing moisture from a room or any space for that matter will require making use of various dehumidification methods, stand-alone or a combination of conventional and Natural as well as some unconventional methods, this is what is referred to as Dehumidification. There are various methods to achieve dehumidification.

These methods can range from Natural methods, in which case plants and salts can be use or Ventilations systems, dehumidifying appliances, and artificial store-bought prepared packs like DampRid and Arm and Hammer.

The method for moisture absorption will be dependent on the extent of the problem as well as factors such as area size and climate.

Rooms with a trace of moisture will easily be treated with any of the natural or DIY methods, 

Whereas if the problem is not isolated to just one room, a dehumidifier, or even a full HVAC system with an integrated dehumidifier might need to be installed.

Excessive moisture in the home has the potential to harm your tools, photos, jewelry, electronics, and important documents, among other things. By reducing humidity levels, you may assist to prevent water damage and corrosion-related problems from occurring to your valuable items.

The best course of action is always to first identify the source of the problem and to repair or eliminate the said problem where possible.

Some problems like soil and foundation moisture will require a bit more of an experienced hand to solve and might be costly. 

In this case, temporary measures like portable dehumidifiers and fans, together with some desiccant absorbent will be able to at least reduce the extent of the problem until major repairs can be undertaken.

How can moisture affect my home?

Mold may grow in your home if there is an abnormally high level of moisture. Mold may develop in or on virtually every material in a home, including paper, carpet, wood, drywall, insulation, beds, and shower curtains.

Mold may develop in air conditioners, humidifiers, and dehumidifiers that are not properly maintained. Excess wetness is ideal for germs, cockroaches, and dust mites to thrive.

Moisture in your house may also contribute to additional issues. Excessive moisture may cause wood to decay, compromising the structural integrity of your home

Moisture may result in peeling, chipping, or cracking paint, which may contribute to elevated lead levels in household dust if your home was constructed before to 1978. 

Lead poisoning, the largest environmental disease in children, may be caused by excessive amounts of lead in home dust. Lead exposure via home dust may result in behavioural issues, learning difficulties, and slowed development in children.

Exposure to mold, bacteria, cockroaches, and dust mites, coughing, sneezing, wheezing, upper respiratory irritation, and asthma symptoms may occur.

What is the purpose of a dehumidifier in the home? 

Dehumidifiers or dehumidifying are methods or devices that convert water vapor in the air to liquid water via condensing technology. 

While some electric dehumidifiers collect and store water in an integrated drip pan, others with a larger capacity discharge it via a drainage hose. Numerous factors play a role in the dehumidification process, from the relative humidity of the room to the capacity of the humidifier you’re using. 

The capacity of a dehumidifier to remove moisture from a specified area can be calculated for maximum efficiency. When your home is subjected to seasonal humidity extremes, the expansion and contraction of wood and other building materials can cause stress. 

That is why it is critical to dehumidify not only one room but also the rest of your home and basement to prevent mold growth and moisture build-up.

Numerous dehumidifiers currently available on the market perform the same function. Dehumidifiers are sometimes used to alleviate allergy symptoms. Others prefer to use one during the summer months to aid in the reduction of moisture in the air.

How does a dehumidifier work?

Air is drawn into the dehumidifier by a fan from the surroundings.

The cooling coils of the dehumidifier are in contact with the air as it flows through. Condensation is used to pull and remove moisture from the air via these coils.

The dehumidifier warms the air before returning it to the room without moisture.

The rule of thumb is to run a dehumidifier at least for 12 hours in areas that have high humidity or moisture content.

What types of household products are capable of absorbing moisture?

The use of rock salt to solve your moisture problem may prove to be the most cost-effective solution available. In addition, since rock salt is hygroscopic, it attracts and holds moisture from its surroundings. 

Another option is to use baking soda, perhaps the most versatile ingredient at home. Baking soda is used to absorb moisture from the air, which results in a less humid environment.  This is because baking soda is a hygroscopic substance, hence it will absorb moisture from the air, similar to rock salt, however baking soda is less effective in larger spaces.

Additionally, charcoal can be used because it contains very little moisture when it is removed from the kiln (about less than 1 %). It rapidly absorbs moisture from humid environments. This is because its tiny spaces trap moisture.

Certain Plant has been known to be effective as well, Like the Peace Lilly and Reed Palms, both the mentioned plants require very little sunlight to survive and absorb moisture from the air through their leaves.

What is the Quickest way to remove moisture from a room?

The most effective way of removing moisture from a room is by using sodium polyacrylate. 

Sodium Polyacrylate can absorb 100-1000 times its weight. 

This is the most significant difference between this type of polyacrylate and other absorption materials. The absorbent rate is high. It simply takes a short period for moisture to be absorbed, because of this, Sodium Polyacrylate is used in disposable nappies and hair gels, and other consumer products.

What are some common ways a home is exposed to moisture?

• Plumbing, flashing, and roof leaks – this can cause moisture ingress into the room
• Damp basements and crawlspaces -damp can spread if not treated as the moisture seeks expansion from saturated areas.
• Cooking, showering, and indoor line drying of clothes – the moisture from the condensation will absorb into materials if it doesn’t have the means to escape 
• Improperly vented combustion appliances and clothes dryers – Dryers in particular function by removing moisture from their contents, if not properly vented, the extracted moisture will remain in the room and settle on surrounding surfaces.
• Flooding and sewer backups – Large amount of water needs to be channelled away from home, failure to do this will cause the water to settle and add to the moisture build-up
• Poorly maintained gutters, downspouts, and drains-Water will not be able to be directed away from the house and will ingress into cavities and exposed areas.
• Landscaping and plants that block crawlspace vents and drainage systems- Blockages will limit the circulation of air.
• Floors and walls are not treated with a Vapour barrier or Damp Sealer- Homes in high humidity areas should have their walls and floors treated with a sealant or barrier to avoid moisture settings in them.

How can I prevent moisture problems in my room?

Preventing moisture issues is the most critical step in preventing mold growth inside. There are several simple ways to prevent moisture from becoming a problem in your home:

• Increase air circulation in your house by opening windows, utilizing fans, and leaving doors between rooms open when the weather allows.
• Repair gaps and cracks in walls to keep water out of basements and crawlspaces; utilize landscaping to divert water away from your foundation. Clean and maintain your gutters, and make sure drainpipes carry water several feet from your home.
• Maintain a relative humidity level of 40% to 60% in your house. You can purchase a device called a hygrometer to accurately measure relative humidity levels
• Running the AC unit continuously at a set temperature that is at a decent comfort level is another way to prevent moisture 
• Hang washing outside where possible or an area that is either well
• Kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans should be fitted. Always try use exhaust fans while cooking or bathing.
• Avoid humidifiers since they provide moisture to the air and may promote mold development. If you must use a humidifier, however, replace the water every day and clean the tank on a weekly basis. Install a ceiling fan, although less effective, and dependant on open windows or vents to be effective, it will assist.

Conclusion

The presence of humidity and moisture can cause some serious problems in your rooms and home.

Identifying the causes, treating these causes, and continuously maintaining your home or affected areas remains key to managing your problem.

If the underlying problem is addressed, the symptoms will resolve themselves in time.