• Dehumidifiers can significantly reduce the amount of moisture in your home.house image by Vaida from Fotolia.com
  
  Dehumidifiers are appliances that remove moisture from the air. This can be important, especially in homes, because too much moisture in an area can lead to wood rotting and mold, which can lead to health problems such as allergies. Traditional dehumidifiers can be expensive, and the amount of energy needed to run them can increase your energy bills. There are a few alternatives that require little or no energy to run, and will reduce the amount of moisture in your structure.
  
  

Absorbents

• Using absorbents is a low-cost alternative to using dehumidifiers. Calcium chloride is commonly used, and is a very strong desiccant that can hold twice its weight in water. Many deicers have calcium chloride and can be used as a natural dehumidifier. If you use a deicer, be sure it lists calcium chloride as the main ingredient. Sprinkle some in a shallow pan, and leave it in your basement. To increase the absorption rate, place a small fan next to the pan. The fan will help draw more air over the calcium chloride. Within two to three days, you will see that the pan will be saturated with water. Replace it with a new supply of calcium chloride.
  
  

Automatic Foundation Vents

• Using a vent system in your home will help increase airflow and reduce the buildup of moisture. Vent systems are typically installed in basement foundations because basements tend to accumulate the most moisture. Vents work by using temperature sensitive coils that open and close, depending on the temperature. This type of dehumidifier does not require electricity, and therefore will save money on energy costs.
  
  

Power Foundation Vents

• Power foundation vents are used in structures that require a higher rate of airflow, or that are difficult to vent. This type of dehumidifier is designed to run at lower speeds, which allows it to use minimal amounts of electricity. Power foundation vents work in conjunction with the building's thermostat to control the opening and closing of the vents.