For conditioned crawlspaces, what dehumidifier sizing and liner details stop odor complaints?
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To keep your crawl space dry, run your dehumidifier often enough to cycle all the air a few times daily. In wet areas, aim to remove about a pint of water for every 10–15 square feet. Seal a thick plastic liner (12–20 mil) to the walls and supports with tape or glue. Overlap the edges by 6–12 inches, and extend the liner up the wall to where the air seal is. Also, use a small vent or fan to keep the air moving, preventing bad smells from building up in still spots.
To determine the right dehumidifier size for your conditioned crawl space and prevent odor complaints, consider the following factors:
-Crawl Space Size: Measure the square footage of your crawl space to determine the required dehumidifier capacity. For example, a 2,289 sq. ft. space may require two 50-pint dehumidifiers, while a 720 sq. ft. space may need one 30-pint dehumidifier.
-Humidity Levels: Assess the humidity levels in your crawl space. If the area is damp but not wet (60-70% relative humidity), choose a dehumidifier that can handle the square footage. For very damp or wet spaces (above 70% relative humidity), select a dehumidifier with a higher capacity.
-Dehumidifier Capacity: Choose a dehumidifier with the right capacity, measured in pints per day.
For conditioned crawlspaces, dehumidifiers should maintain 50 percent relative humidity or lower, typically sized at 1 to 1.5 pints per 100 square feet (that’s just for tight spaces).
The liner should be continuous 6‑mil or thicker vapor barrier, sealed at seams and walls, with at least 12 inches of overlap up walls and sealed to prevent soil gases and odors.
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