Dehumidification

I Overview
Dehumidifiers use specialized materials, called desiccants, to chemically remove moisture from air. The desiccant absorbs moisture from incoming air when the air comes in contact with it, then exhausts the moisture outside of the building.

II Applications
Dehumidification can be used either in a stand-alone system, or in conjunction with an air conditioner. When used with an air conditioner, the dehumidifier can significantly increase the energy efficiency of the air conditioner, as the air conditioning system does not have to expend energy removing moisture from the air. Also, if humidity is reduced to proper levels, building occupants feel more comfortable at slightly higher temperatures, allowing thermostats to be set slightly higher and further reducing cooling costs.

Dehumidification can be used to help regulate the indoor climate of homes, office buildings, retail stores, hotels, restaurants, ice rinks, theaters, schools, and hospitals.

III Equipment Options
Dehumidifiers can operate using a dry or liquid desiccant. A dry desiccant is generally mounted on a rotating wheel, while a liquid desiccant is a concentrated solution.

Dry units are sized for residential, commercial and industrial applications while liquid desiccant systems are typically found in industrial applications.

IV Resources
1. Equipment Manufacturer Database
2. Gas Air Conditioning Consortium