Keeping Your Basement Comfortable

Summer damp

Cool basement walls collect moisture from humid air. A dehumidifier keeps humidity in check.

Winter chill

Basements lose heat through walls and floors. Insulation and a supply register or two help.

Return air

A return in the basement helps the furnace mix air through the house.

Finished basements

Finished spaces may need their own zone or a ductless head.

Water heaters and furnaces

Keep the area around them clear for safety and service.

Sump pumps

A working sump pump prevents water from adding to humidity.

Musty smells

A musty smell means too much moisture; find and fix the source.

Radon

Many Canadian homes test for radon in basements; it's worth checking.

More help

See ductwork and humidity.

Dehumidifier settings

Set a basement dehumidifier to a moderate level and empty or drain it regularly. Too low wastes power; too high lets mould grow on cool walls and stored items.

Storage

Keep boxes off the floor and away from exterior walls, where moisture collects. Plastic bins handle damp better than cardboard.

Windows and doors

Basement windows and walkout doors are often draftier than the rest of the house. Weatherstripping them helps in winter and keeps humid air out in summer.

Floor heat

Cold floors are the biggest complaint in finished basements. Insulated subfloors, rugs and a properly placed supply register help, and some homeowners add in-floor heat in renovations.

Furnace room air

If the basement is closed off with a door, make sure the furnace still gets enough combustion air. Never seal the furnace room tight without checking.

More heating and cooling guides

• Furnace Checklist Before a Windsor Winter
• Staying Comfortable in a Humid Windsor Summer
• Heat Pumps in Canada's Warmest Corner
• Heating and Cooling Older Windsor Homes
• AC Tune-Up Before a Windsor Summer
• Hiring an HVAC Contractor in Ontario