Home
Fact-checked

At HomeQuestionsAnswered, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How do I Improve Basement Ventilation?

Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari

When finishing a basement to use as a livable space, basement ventilation becomes important to keep air flowing in and out of the basement, but more importantly to keep moist air from stagnating and creating mold. Mold and mildew can pose a health risk if you spend a significant amount of time in a room, and while installing a fan can certainly help, it may not be enough to adequately increase basement ventilation. Dehumidifiers can help reduce moisture in the air, carpets and walls, and they can help eliminate or reduce musty basement odors common in damp spaces.

Perhaps the best option for basement ventilation is an air exchange system. These systems take air from the outside of the home and suck it inside, while venting damp air inside the home and allowing it to escape outside. This transfer allows dry air to circulate through the basement, drying out the walls, carpets, floors, and other materials. This system accentuates the importance of basement ventilation, as the user will be less at risk for termite infestations as well as mold and mildew, which can cause respiratory problems in humans and pets. Dry air also means less chance of structural rot in beams, joists, and studs.

A basement dehumidifier may be used to reduce humidity and moisture in the air.
A basement dehumidifier may be used to reduce humidity and moisture in the air.

If an air exchange system is not an option for you, a simple fan and dehumidifier combination may suit your basement ventilation needs. A fan can blow damp air out of the house if properly ventilated. A portable box fan may be placed in a bulkhead or doorway to the outside, but keep in mind that the doors will need to be open so the moist air can escape. A dehumidifier is perhaps a more effective method. This device sucks up moisture in the air and traps it in a tank inside its shell. It is important to choose a dehumidifier that is the appropriate size for the basement in which it will be placed. A dehumidifier that is too small will not pull enough of the moisture out of the air to be effective. A dehumidifier's tank must be emptied regularly to avoid overflow.

Ventilation becomes an issues when turning a formerly utilitarian basement into a livable space.
Ventilation becomes an issues when turning a formerly utilitarian basement into a livable space.

The least expensive option in terms of up-front costs is a combination of fans and dehumidifiers, but this option may not save you money in the long run. As a basement ventilation system, the fan and dehumidifier option will raise heating costs and electricity bills, since fans need to be placed either in open windows or open doorways, and dehumidifiers need to be running fairly constantly to be effective. The up-front cost of the equipment, however, is lower than an air exchange system.

Discussion Comments

anon941184

I found a product, known as the Breeze, for about $280 at Amazon. It replaces damp, musty air in a basement with fresh, dry air. It has made it possible for our family to use our basement! We had a dehumidifier running for many years. It cost about $35 per month to run, needed to have the tank emptied, and never changed the air in the basement. Family allergies and the terrible smell kept everyone out.

This appliance costs pennies to run, is very sturdy, made of vinyl, has a full variable speed fan control and a humidistat that turns it on and off based on the desired humidity level. You can barely hear the fan. It installs as a dryer is vented. At $350, it costs so much less than the competition (Humidex about $1,200) (EZ Breathe about $1,500) (Wave Ventilation about $1,700). It's a steal.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A basement dehumidifier may be used to reduce humidity and moisture in the air.
      By: Kellis
      A basement dehumidifier may be used to reduce humidity and moisture in the air.
    • Ventilation becomes an issues when turning a formerly utilitarian basement into a livable space.
      By: Steven Baines
      Ventilation becomes an issues when turning a formerly utilitarian basement into a livable space.
    • Areas with poor ventilation are often breeding grounds for mold.
      By: askthegeek
      Areas with poor ventilation are often breeding grounds for mold.
    • Faulty ventilation systems can create poor air quality.
      By: Johan Larson
      Faulty ventilation systems can create poor air quality.
    • Mold and mildew can pose a threat to health if you're in a room where they are present.
      By: Mushy
      Mold and mildew can pose a threat to health if you're in a room where they are present.
    • Headaches can result from poor basement ventilation.
      By: 9nong
      Headaches can result from poor basement ventilation.