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Can you run a dehumidifier too much?

7463 Views 11 Replies 7 Participants Last post by capta, Mar 3, 2015

Rasputin

Discussion Starter · Feb 27, 2015

I run a Frigidaire Dehumidifier FAD704TDP on our 1984, 50' cutter sloop. The inside is all wood. We're out in Southern California (Long Beach) so winters are mild. I let it run continuously. Other than the bilge, it keeps everything dry, fresh and mildew free.

I've been noticing wood separation on the teak and holly floors, various gingerbread pieces and some floorboard / bilge hatch covers (not sure what the term is for the various wood access pieces to bilge areas) have actually warped some.

Can you run a dehumidifier too much? Is the over drying causing this or is caused by something else? Just seems like this is more pronounced over the last couple years since I've used the dehumidifier.

I welcome any thoughts. Huge thanks!

My follow-up questions will be specific to best ways to repair the separations and un-warping floor board hatches.

~Scott

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Whitebread117

· #4 · Feb 27, 2015

Relative Humidity level below 35% is arid and wood will dry out and shrink (and sometimes warp/crack in the process). Above about 60% and it can swell, but not a major issue outside of delicate/fine furniture. Keep it below 70% to inhibit most mold growth.

45-55% RH is a good target for human comfort, wood interior comfort, and discouraging mold.

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