Basement is musty especially mid summer. It is finished with a sub-floor and carpet. This is a 25-year-old bungalow 1200 square feet with 4 windows in basement and it has a sump pump. I live in a small town called Clarence Creek, Ontario and the solutions I am considering; dehumidifier for the basement? central air? inexpensive improvement of airflow? Could you tell me which method would be the best, the most cost effective and what you suggest?
Answer:
Everything you tell me about the basement points to mould, mildew and generally uncomfortable habitation. I would start by opening a window down there and as far away from that window as possible, place an 18" or so diameter fan. Put the fan on a 12-hours on and 12-hours off cycle so that during the dark hours it runs and during the heat of the day the window is closed and the fan turned off. This is both the most effective and cost efficient method I know of.
