DIY Builds
Photo by Disha Sheta Pexels Logo Photo: Disha Sheta

Do you run dehumidifier in winter?

During cold winter months, the air in your home is usually dry, which means a dehumidifier is not necessary. In fact, dehumidifiers actually work most efficiently in warm temperatures and decrease in efficiency as the temperature cools.

How do you maximize space in a small workshop?
How do you maximize space in a small workshop?

How to Make Your Small Workshop Feel Bigger Paint your space. Install bright LED shop lights. Make your tools mobile to maximize workshop space....

Read More »
Who makes the best outdoor storage boxes?
Who makes the best outdoor storage boxes?

Best garden storage boxes Arbor Garden Solutions Wooden Tool Chest. Garden Trading Aldsworth Outdoor Storage Box. Keter 570L Resin Storage Box....

Read More »
These are the Best Shed Plans!
These are the Best Shed Plans!

Comprehensive and Intuitive to follow. Build That Shed!

Learn More »

Dehumidifiers are indispensable for removing unwanted moisture from your home, as anyone who’s weathered a muggy Massachusetts summer knows. They help alleviate allergies and respiratory problems by improving indoor air quality, and can avoid damage to your home by preventing mold build-up. However, running dehumidifiers takes energy, so it’s important to know when to unplug them and how to keep them operating efficiently. As you prepare to put away your dehumidifier for the year, we’ve put together some tips on how to get the most from your appliance.

Mind the Seasons

Because humidity levels vary throughout the year, so does the need to run your dehumidifier. During cold winter months, the air in your home is usually dry, which means a dehumidifier is not necessary. In fact, dehumidifiers actually work most efficiently in warm temperatures and decrease in efficiency as the temperature cools. Most dehumidifiers should not be operated in temperatures below 60° F, since the moisture removed from the indoor air can freeze when it condenses on the cooling coils, which can damage the unit. When the temperature in the space where you run your dehumidifier starts getting down around 65° F, it’s time to think of unplugging your unit and stowing it away for the winter.

Maintain Your Appliance

The lifetime of dehumidifiers usually ranges from five to 10 years. To maximize the lifetime, it’s important to care for your dehumidifier. Be sure to regularly change the air filters, clean the condensing coils and exhaust grilles, and empty and clean the water bucket. These are good steps to take before packing your dehumidifier up for the winter so that it’s ready to go when you need it again in the spring. If your dehumidifier does not pull water from the air when it runs, or if it stops running for no apparent reason, it is time to repair or upgrade your dehumidifier. If you are looking to dispose of an old dehumidifier, be sure to recycle. Dehumidifiers contain hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC), a greenhouse gas that can also deplete the ozone layer. Both retailers and towns often accept old dehumidifiers for recycling. The Mass Save sponsors also support dehumidifier turn-in events, where you can drop your old dehumidifier off for no cost and ensure it is safely recycled. Check out our calendar to see if an event is scheduled near you. If you’re interested in purchasing a new dehumidifier, take advantage of the limited-time rebates on ENERGY STAR® certified dehumidifiers. ENERGY STAR certified models use 15 percent less energy than traditional ones, which means you can save more than $175 over the appliance’s lifetime. To learn more about the benefits of ENERGY STAR certified dehumidifiers and where to buy them, visit the Mass Save rebate page.

How can I heat my summer house without electricity?
How can I heat my summer house without electricity?

Start with positioning the summerhouse in a suitable position to get plenty of sunlight through the windows to create the feeling of warmth....

Read More »
How much are wood carvings worth?
How much are wood carvings worth?

Wood carvings are worth from $500 to $20,000 depending on height, square inches, the piece's complexity, materials used, and how many hours the...

Read More »
Are shed plans easy to follow?
Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

Learn More »

What are some easy woodworking projects?

100 BEGINNERS WOODWORKING PROJECTS SIMPLE WALL SHELF. Porch Or Garden Table. Sofa Sleeve and Cup Holder. Candle Holder. Wooden Media Box. Address Number Wall Planter. Cookbook Stand or Tablet Holder. Scrap Plywood Candle Holders. More items... •

A DIY woodworking project may be pretty intimidating, especially for people who don’t have a clue when to use a chainsaw, table saw, or which wood to use. Woodworking skills and power tools are sometimes really complicated, especially when used to build a project in your backyard. However, not all DIY experts made their way through their woodworking journey already knowing what a jigsaw is for and how this piece is different from a reciprocating saw; nor did they perfect their first beveled cut or got all their measurements correctly. Many great woodworkers started learning beginner woodworking skills from home where they needed to get help to find their way as they build furniture. They may have gotten their materials and other things in their backyard or workshop just to build a DIY project. There’s nothing wrong about choosing to build small DIY woodworking projects for beginners first. And who says you have to build a big-size tree house or a complicated piece of furniture, anyway? Woodworking and DIY projects at home don’t always have to be made on a larger scale, especially for those who don’t have the information and space yet. You can create something with a 1-sheet plywood, and it would give you beautiful results while being easy at the same time. You don’t need a lot of materials or space. DIY projects like a chair or simple gifts for kids can be made even if you have limited space in your backyard.

What can I make with leftover wood?
What can I make with leftover wood?

Take a look and try out some of these amazing projects! Wood Slice Cutting Board. Did a tree fall down in your yard? ... Pallet Wood Silverware...

Read More »
What is the most low-maintenance driveway?
What is the most low-maintenance driveway?

Low-Maintenance Driveway Options Paving Stones. Paving stones are known to last up to a full century if properly laid. ... Concrete Grass Pavers....

Read More »
These are the Best Shed Plans!
These are the Best Shed Plans!

Comprehensive and Intuitive to follow. Build That Shed!

Learn More »
Do sheds need to be on concrete?
Do sheds need to be on concrete?

Only when your shed is to be located in an area that is below the grade of the rest of your yard should a concrete pad be considered for extra...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
How much does it cost to build a room over a garage?
How much does it cost to build a room over a garage?

The Nest reports that a building an addition typically ranges between $80 and $200 per square foot, and with Your Own Architect estimating the...

Read More »