Dehumidifier On A Boat: Safe Or Not?

Boats are often exposed to high levels of moisture, which can lead to mould, mildew, and mustiness. This can be a costly problem, causing damage to the boat's interior, electronics, and engine. To prevent this, many boat owners invest in a dehumidifier to keep their vessel dry.

Dehumidifiers can be particularly useful during the winter months when boats are more likely to be laid up and not in use. They can also help to eliminate unpleasant odours and improve the air quality in the cabin.

There are a few things to consider when choosing a dehumidifier for a boat. Firstly, weight is a factor if you need to carry the dehumidifier between your car and the boat. Secondly, if the boat is still in the water, avoid dehumidifiers with castors as they will roll around. Lastly, it is recommended to opt for a desiccant dehumidifier over a compressor type as they work better in cold conditions and are generally lighter.

Some boat owners choose to use moisture-absorbing products or small fans to circulate the air as an alternative to a dehumidifier. However, a good-quality dehumidifier can be an essential investment for any boat owner looking to protect their vessel from the damaging effects of moisture.

Dehumidifiers prevent mould and mildew

Dehumidifiers are essential for preventing mould and mildew in boats. Mould and mildew thrive in humid environments, and boats are particularly susceptible to dampness due to their proximity to water. By reducing moisture levels, dehumidifiers create an environment that is less conducive to the growth of mould and mildew.

Mould and mildew can cause extensive damage to boats and their contents, including cushions, bedding, books, maps, wood, electronics, and engines. They can also cause unpleasant musty odours and pose health risks to occupants. Dehumidifiers help to mitigate these issues by maintaining relative humidity levels between 50% and 60%, which is optimal for preventing moisture-related problems.

Boat owners should consider investing in a desiccant dehumidifier, which operates well in cold conditions and tends to be lighter than compressor dehumidifiers. When selecting a dehumidifier, it is important to consider factors such as weight, ease of transport, and the presence of castors, as well as the ability to continuously drain water. Proper ventilation, drying of equipment, and the use of moisture control products can also complement the use of a dehumidifier in preventing mould and mildew.

By using a dehumidifier and implementing complementary measures, boat owners can effectively prevent mould and mildew, protecting their vessels and creating a more comfortable and healthy environment for themselves and their guests.

They can protect electronics

A dehumidifier is essential for protecting the electronics on your boat. The damp environment that boats tend to live in can cause expensive damage to electronics, electrics, and engines. Saltwater, which inevitably finds its way below deck, retains moisture, creating further problems.

A dehumidifier will help to keep humidity levels down and prevent potential damage to electronics. Relative humidity levels should be between 50% and 60% to reduce moisture-related problems.

One boat owner recommends using a galley hatch when cooking or bathing, as these activities generate considerable amounts of humidity in the cabin. They also suggest purchasing moisture control products to hang in various areas of the boat. These products, often in bags or boxes, are placed in the cabin and prevent moisture from seeping into the electronics compartments.

Another boat owner in a hot climate recommends shutting the hatches and vents to wick moisture out of mattresses and other fabrics. They also suggest using a marinized dehumidifier, which dumps the byproduct warm air and moisture overboard instead of recirculating the warm air.

A desiccant dehumidifier is a good option for boats as they operate well in cold conditions and tend to be lighter. They also do not have castors, which can be a problem if your boat is still in the water.

They can be used in conjunction with fans

Dehumidifiers are a great way to keep your boat dry and free from moisture. They can be used in conjunction with fans to help circulate the air in the cabin and keep the boat cooler. This will also help to remove odours and other indoor pollutants.

When choosing a dehumidifier for your boat, consider the weight if you need to carry it between your car and the boat, and avoid dehumidifiers with castors as they will roll around. Also, look for a dehumidifier that can drain water away continuously, so you don't have to worry about emptying the tank.

A desiccant dehumidifier is a good choice for boats as they operate well in cold conditions and tend to be lighter. Place the dehumidifier on a level surface in the galley and use a residual current device (RCD) as it will be unattended most of the time. Drain the water away using a hose into a sink to avoid having to empty the tank manually.

To keep costs down, choose a dehumidifier with a low wattage setting and set the humidity to around 60% to minimise running time. Keep the boat sealed to reduce energy consumption and only run the dehumidifier when necessary. Clean the filter regularly to increase the lifespan and efficiency of the dehumidifier.

By using a dehumidifier in conjunction with fans, you can effectively reduce moisture and maintain a comfortable environment in your boat.

They are particularly useful for boats in humid climates

Boats tend to be in damp environments, and moisture can be an expensive and damaging problem. They are particularly useful for boats in humid climates, such as in the case of a boat owner in Florida, who found that a small dehumidifier helped with the "crazy" humidity in the area. Another boat owner in Southern California, a humid climate, found that a dehumidifier stopped their gear, pillows, blankets, and clothing from growing mould and put a stop to the damp, mouldy, cave-like smell.

A dehumidifier is especially useful if your boat is laid up near a power supply. This way, you can use a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels down and prevent potential damage. If your boat is still in the water, avoid a dehumidifier with castors as it will roll around.

A desiccant dehumidifier is best for boats because they operate well in cold conditions and tend to be lighter. They also do not have castors.

They are also useful for boats that are left alone for long periods

Dehumidifiers are a great way to protect your boat and your belongings when you're away for long periods. Organic materials, such as cushions and bedding, are prone to damage from excess moisture, which can make them smell musty when you return. Paper-based items like books, pictures, and maps can also absorb moisture and curl, while wood and veneer can be damaged.

If your boat is near a power supply, a dehumidifier can be a great investment to keep humidity levels down and prevent potential damage. A desiccant dehumidifier is a good choice for boats as they work well in cold conditions and tend to be lighter. When choosing a dehumidifier, consider the weight if you need to carry it between your car and the boat. If your boat is still in the water, avoid dehumidifiers with castors as they will roll around.

To get the best out of your dehumidifier:

• Place it on a level surface, preferably on the galley side.
• Use an RCD as you'll be using an electrical appliance on your boat unattended most of the time.
• Drain the water away using a hose into a sink to avoid having to empty the tank daily.
• Seal the boat as best you can to prevent dehumidifying the surrounding area.
• Leave internal doors open so damp air can migrate towards the dehumidifier.

A dehumidifier can be a valuable tool to maintain your boat and keep it in good condition, especially when left alone for extended periods.

Frequently asked questions