When a natural disaster strikes, the resulting damage can be extensive and costly. In addition to the physical damage to structures and belongings, there is also the potential for mold and mildew growth. This can occur when water from the disaster seeps into building materials and creates an environment that is conducive to mold growth. Dehumidifiers play an important role in disaster recovery by helping to remove moisture from the air, which can prevent mold and mildew growth.
Dehumidifiers work by drawing in air from the surrounding environment and passing it over a cold coil. This causes the water vapor in the air to condense on the coil, and the water is then collected in a reservoir. The dry air is then passed back into the environment. Dehumidifiers can be used to lower the humidity in a single room or an entire building, and they are often used in conjunction with fans to circulate the air and speed up the drying process.
In the aftermath of a disaster, the priority is to remove any standing water and begin the drying process as quickly as possible. Dehumidifiers can be an invaluable tool in this effort, as they can help to remove moisture from the air and prevent mold and mildew growth. When using dehumidifiers, it is important to monitor the humidity levels to ensure that they do not become too low, as this can also lead to problems such as static electricity and dust mites.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/mold/remediation.html
https://www.epa.gov/mold/mold-remediation-schools-and-commercial-buildings