Are my electronics safe in the basement?
I have moved into a new home and have decided to make my basement a home theatre. However, after running a dehumidifier in the basement for a day, I found it is quite wet down there. I have to remove and empty the dehumidifier probably every 18-24 hours as it fills up the 1 gallon trey in that time period.
I am wondering if I should reconsider putting my electronics down there as it may not be healthy for them. I have a projector, several speakers, receiver, and computer.
Just to clarify, there is no visible moisture anywhere. I am probably going to buy a second dehumidifier just to see if that yields the same result of need of refill after one day.
So do you think it is safe for my electronics down there as long as i keep one or two of these dehumidifiers running?
Thank you for the response detailing Dry Lock. This is a good solution… But, I am renting the house so I cannot modify the basement and wouldn’t really to since it will be wasted money. It rained today, and no leaks, so I think I am in the clear there. Any other ideas without modifying the basement?
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2 comments
JAS on September 3, 2010 at 2:01 am
Among other benefits, moderate, well-controlled levels of humidity can be an advantage, esp. when it comes to electronics. Electrostatic/triboelectric charge generation and accumulation can be minimized with the help of careful humidity control. The optimum RH range for sensitive electronics, such as the type found in most modern consumer electronic components, is between 50% and 60% RH.
For additional guidance read the specs in the datasheets or owner’s manuals for every piece of A/V equipment you own to learn what the maximum operating RH level is for your specific equipment. Whichever piece of equipment has the lowest maximum (non-condensing) operating RH level should establish the absolute maximum operating humidity level in your room and 40% to 50% should be the absolute lowest target RH operating level. (The Electrostatic Discharge Association through the ANSI/ESD S20.20 Electrostatic Discharge Control Program Standard specifies a Recommended Range for Humidity of 30% to 70% RH for sensitive electronics and electronic components.)
I also recommend that you purchase a good quality precision* hygrometer (aka moisture monitor) to monitor the moisture content of the air in your room. *(± 2% to no more than 3% over a range of 10% to 90% RH should be sufficient.)
You may also want to look into humidifier/dehumidifier models that do not require such frequent service and maintenance.
tdog on September 3, 2010 at 2:01 am
My basement was the same way when we bought our house. We got it dry eventually . We cleaned the cement walls and floor. Then we put dry lock on the walls and floor of the basement. Still need the dehumidifier, but not to bad on moisture anymore. Plus I have all walls studed and sheatrocked. Make sure no leaks when it rains. I have all mine fixed now. You should be good. That Dry Lock is thick stuff. It works awsome.