I have a mildly damp room where I keep my bikes - bits of it, especially ones I can't really lube easily (like disc rotors and rotor bolts) do seem to get a bit rusty compared to other people's bikes, and I wonder if it's related.
Been wondering about getting a dehumidifier - do they work? Any good ones, things to look out for etc? Or a DIY solution?
Open the window? Seriously though, proper ventilation will probably be cheaper in the long run.
The room doesn't have any windows, which is clearly the problem. We intend to get it properly treated and some ventilation put in at some point but I was wondering about a temporary solution.
As you seem to be aware, a dehumidifier isn't a solution, but they certainly do work. But obviously you need to find out why the room is damp and fix it really.
A dehumidifier and a heater can turn any room into a great DIY drying room for all your gear!
Langdale campsite has this setup and it really works!
I know of a few hostels that use it too, so Im guessing its worth a shot for your room.
My rented flat is realy damp, and opening the windows makes **** all difference. I'm looking to find a dehumid ASAP, before I grow mould.
I have one in the cellar than I run when I need to. It's excellent for blow drying a bike when you have to put it away wet! This method has stopped chains going rusty and prevented mould growth down there.
They are also meant to be as, if not more, cost efficient as tumble dryers for drying clothes - you can hang your wet kit on the bars and dry bike and kit together.
They do cost a bit to run but tanking the cellar would be considerably more expensive!
Dry air is also easier to heat than wet air, so they potentially offset some of the running costs against heating bills (and repairing damp problems).
A good site to check out:
http://www.dry-it-out.com/dehumidifiers
TBH I find them utterly mystifying..boom boom..Ill get my coat..
In addition to opening a window, I use a small one after a showering/bath to reduce moisture. If you put it next to your clothes rack it also helps with drying clothes as it generates a little heat. It sucks out about a litre every 1.5 hours.
It could help with your damp room short-term, but I suspect you need to get some through ventilation.
If you plan to run it at night they can be noisy beggars, especially the cheap ones.I went for a Delonghi dehumidifier as it seems to be fairly quiet and works efficintly. Although I normally run the thing when i'm out of the house and all the windows are closed.