Top Tips for Managing Humidity on a Boat with a Dehumidifier

Boats are valuable possessions, full of organic materials and expensive equipment, and are particularly vulnerable to the effects of high humidity. Managing humidity levels is crucial to protect your boat from damage, especially during the colder months when it may be locked up for extended periods.

Sources of Moisture on Boats

Life on the water comes with unique challenges, including managing humidity from everyday activities.

• Water Sports and Activities: Wet clothes, towels, and water equipment contribute to elevated humidity levels, creating an environment conducive to damp and mould growth.
  Tip: Ensure all items, like wetsuits and towels, are fully dried before storing them to prevent adding moisture to cupboards and storage areas.
• Winter Storage: Sealing the boat over the autumn and winter months creates a damp environment, especially if there are leaks or inadequate ventilation. This can damage the interior and expensive equipment.
  Tip: Maintain proper ventilation even during storage to prevent moisture from clinging to upholstery or condensing on electronic equipment.

Impact of High Humidity on Soft Furnishings and Equipment

Excess moisture can damage organic materials, paper items, wood, and electronic equipment. Cushions, bedding, and books are particularly vulnerable, often developing a musty smell or warping from absorbed moisture.

• Warranty Considerations: Electronic boating equipment often requires humidity levels below 80% relative humidity to maintain warranties. Failing to meet these conditions can void warranties and reduce the lifespan of electronics such as radars, sonars, and monitors.
  Tip: Use a dehumidifier to maintain appropriate humidity levels and protect your investment.
• Damp and Mould Formation: High humidity promotes mould growth, which can spread across upholstery, mattresses, and storage areas. Mould spores can also affect your health.
  Tip: Consider a dehumidifier with medical-grade filters or antibacterial features to remove airborne contaminants.

Why Use a Dehumidifier on a Boat?

Unmanaged humidity can harm your health, belongings, and equipment. By addressing moisture sources and preventing dampness, mould, and condensation, a dehumidifier preserves your boat’s interior and ensures a more enjoyable experience.

Choosing the Right Dehumidifier for Your Boat

When selecting a dehumidifier, consider storage, temperature, and usage needs:

1. Storage Considerations: Boats stored in colder conditions are prone to rising humidity. A dehumidifier with a continuous drainage option is ideal for unattended use during winter.
2. Environment and Temperature: Desiccant dehumidifiers like the Meaco DD8L range operate well in cooler temperatures, such as those found in docks or harbours during winter.
3. Usage Needs: Choose a model based on how you use your boat. For instance, desiccant models are excellent for drying wet laundry onboard, while compressor models like the MeacoDry Arete® One 25L are designed for year-round efficiency.

Recommended Dehumidifiers for Boats

• Meaco DD8L Junior: Ideal for cooler environments and features continuous drainage and energy-efficient control logic. Perfect for winter storage.
• Meaco DD8L Zambezi: Offers additional features like a daily run timer and an ioniser to sterilise the air.
• MeacoDry Arete® One 25L: A compressor model designed for larger boats, featuring continuous drainage and compatibility with a drainage pump for upward water flow.

Tip: Leverage Meaco Control Logic for energy-efficient operation. It automatically starts and stops the device based on air conditions, saving energy and maintaining optimal humidity.

Long-Term Benefits of a Dehumidifier

Using a dehumidifier protects your boat’s furnishings, electronics, and structure from moisture-related damage. It ensures better air quality and prevents costly repairs, making it a smart, year-round investment for boat owners.

Sail into every adventure with confidence, knowing your boat is safeguarded against the damaging effects of high humidity. With the right dehumidifier, you can maintain a comfortable, dry, and healthy onboard environment.