April 8, 2026
The relative humidity level in a home should be between 35% and 50%, but that can be challenging in St. Louis, MO. This area experiences hot and humid summers, with an average July high of about 89 degrees Fahrenheit. A whole-home dehumidifier removes moisture from the air that’s circulating through your HVAC system, helping to balance moisture levels. Understanding more about a whole-home dehumidifier can help you decide if it’s a good option to take your home from sticky to comfortable.
Signs of High Humidity in a Home
Experiencing a sticky, uncomfortable feeling isn’t the only side effect of high humidity. It could also lead to additional problems within your home. For example, moisture can cause structural damage, such as wood rot. Wood, ranging from your furniture to the floors, may warp. Both wallpaper and paint can start peeling. High humidity can also corrode metal in your home and cause condensation on windows. Mold growth may become a problem, as it can start growing within 24 to 48 hours after the accumulation of moisture. Pest infestations are another potential problem. Cockroaches, termites, and many other pests are drawn to environments with high humidity. Regulating your indoor humidity levels can make your space less appealing to them.
Benefits of a Whole-Home Dehumidifier
Increased comfort is one of the biggest benefits of a whole-home dehumidifier. You won’t have to deal with a sticky, uncomfortable feeling, even if it’s hot and humid outside. Your indoor air quality will also improve, as dry air has a harder time holding onto particulate matter. This is beneficial for all homes, but especially for those with residents who have allergies or respiratory problems. Additionally, installing a whole-home dehumidifier helps protect the structural integrity of a house. It’s also a preventive measure to safeguard your belongings, including wood furniture, photographs, books, and musical instruments. If you commonly experience a musty, damp odor in your basement or other areas of the home, this should improve when you remove moisture.
Whole-Home Dehumidifier vs. Portable Dehumidifier
The major difference between these two pieces of equipment is that portable dehumidifiers reduce humidity in whatever area they’re in at the time. A whole-home dehumidifier reduces humidity in all areas that are connected to your HVAC system. For instance, if your basement doesn’t have supply or return vents, the humidity likely won’t decrease in that area. All other areas with vents and registers will benefit.
Portable dehumidifiers are more affordable than whole-house dehumidifiers, but they require a lot of maintenance and attention, such as draining and cleaning. Some of these units can be noisy. Whole-house dehumidifiers work automatically with your HVAC system, offer quiet operation, and don’t require manual draining.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Some homeowners might attempt a whole-house dehumidifier installation themselves to save money. However, this could have negative consequences, including potentially damaging the system before you even use it. Additionally, you may experience injuries or increase the risk of a fire or electrocution with incorrect wiring. You might also void your HVAC system’s warranty coverage. Many policies include terms stating that only professional HVAC technicians can install, modify, and service the system. If you void the warranty, you will have to pay for future service costs out of pocket.
Details of a Whole-Home Dehumidifier Installation
The total cost of a whole-house dehumidifier installation includes the unit itself as well as the labor for the process. However, there are several factors that influence the actual cost, such as the model and the complexity of the installation. We’ll discuss pricing information with you once we assess your HVAC setup and learn more about your humidity needs.
The duration of the dehumidifier installation appointment also varies, although it usually takes between four and eight hours. We will walk you through the process and explain more about your system. This is a great time to ask us questions about the use of your dehumidifier.
Can You Install a Whole-House Dehumidifier in an Existing HVAC System?
Yes, our team can install a whole-home dehumidifier with an existing HVAC system by integrating it with the current ductwork. You don’t have to buy a new HVAC unit. However, if your HVAC unit is reaching the end of its lifespan, we may recommend upgrading it for optimal performance.
Professional Whole-Home Dehumidifier Maintenance
To work optimally, your whole-home dehumidifier needs professional maintenance. Our team can perform an inspection and tune-up of your dehumidifier along with your seasonal HVAC appointment. We recommend scheduling this service in the spring so we can get your system ready for the hot and humid summer months ahead. Some homeowners schedule another appointment in the fall to prepare for winter.
Lifespan of a Whole-Home Dehumidifier
A whole-house dehumidifier usually lasts between 5 and 10 years, although several factors can influence its lifespan. Maintenance plays a crucial role in how long it lasts. Taking proper care of your unit right from the beginning can help it work optimally for longer.
How Long Does It Take for a Whole-House Dehumidifier to Start Working?
A whole-home dehumidifier will begin to remove moisture as soon as it begins to run. You’ll typically notice a difference in humidity levels within a few hours. If humidity is very high, it may take a bit longer to see a change. Progress will continue, and you may begin feeling more comfortable as the new system removes excess moisture from the air.
What Are Signs a Dehumidifier Is Malfunctioning?
The biggest indicator that you’re experiencing dehumidifier problems is that you’ll notice that your indoor air feels stuffy and humid. This may occur even if your system seems to be functioning normally. You may also hear unusual noises from the dehumidifier, such as a buzzing sound. It might also short-cycle, going on and off without completing a full cycle. If this situation happens, don’t attempt to identify the problem or fix it yourself. Contact our team at Scott-Lee Heating Company immediately so we can assess the situation and determine an appropriate solution. We’ll inform you whether your whole-house dehumidifier needs repair or replacement.
When Is the Best Time to Install a Whole-Home Dehumidifier?
The best time to install a whole-house dehumidifier in St. Louis is in late winter or early spring. Humidity levels in the city usually start increasing in May, with the most humid month being July. Installing this equipment before then ensures that the system has already been working to regulate humidity levels.
We recommend calling as early as possible to schedule your installation appointment. Many homeowners schedule HVAC inspections, installations, and other services in spring. Appointments can fill up fast during the season. Calling early may offer you more flexible date and time options that align with your schedule.
Don’t let humidity continue to make your home feel uncomfortable. Scott-Lee Heating Company in St. Louis, MO, provides whole-home dehumidifier installations. Call today to schedule an appointment or request service online through our website.