Archive for September, 2008
Comments(4)September 23, 2008
Evaporative Air Conditioners
Barney Garcia asked:
When we talk about air conditioners we generally talk in terms of a device which is going to cool the surrounding air and provide us comfort. Some may also think dehumidifying as an additional function of the device. Although this may be true for a great extent of air conditioners, it must be remembered that dehumidifying is not always the best option. For example, in the dry climates of Arizona having an air conditioner which also dehumidifies to an extent would be foolish. Good news is all air conditioners are not dehumidifiers and some function in the exactly opposite manner. They actually increase the humidity of the air inside the room. They are also popularly known as ‘evaporative’ or ’swamp’ coolers.
These are meant to provide comfort in places where the climate is not only hot but dry too. These devices actually suck in air from the outside through a wet pad. This ensures that the sensible heat of the air is reduced. However, it must be remembered that the total heat content of the air that has been sucked in remains unchanged as the sum of the sensible and latent heat remains constant. The sensible heat of the air that is reduced is actually converted to latent heat as the water from the wet cooler pads is evaporated absorbing heat from the air. The drier the air that enters the device, the better are the results. the good thing about these devices is that they are relatively cheaper than the regular air conditioners and the maintenance is also hassle free.
We also have the devices which are based on the technology of absorptive refrigeration. What this process basically does is to absorb heat to produce cooling. There are three stages to the entire process. First of all, the air is dehumidified by the cooler. This is done by a spray of salt-water or brine. It is through osmosis that the brine absorbs water vapor from the air. During the second stage water is sprayed in the air. This cools the air because of the evaporation that follows. To conclude, the air passes again through another brine spray so that the humidity of the air is controlled. Distillation ensures that the brine remains concentrated. This system has been used in some hospitals.
Such Evaporative air conditioners are separate from what we come across regularly and can actually provide a solution to those staying in hot, dry climates.
Steve
When we talk about air conditioners we generally talk in terms of a device which is going to cool the surrounding air and provide us comfort. Some may also think dehumidifying as an additional function of the device. Although this may be true for a great extent of air conditioners, it must be remembered that dehumidifying is not always the best option. For example, in the dry climates of Arizona having an air conditioner which also dehumidifies to an extent would be foolish. Good news is all air conditioners are not dehumidifiers and some function in the exactly opposite manner. They actually increase the humidity of the air inside the room. They are also popularly known as ‘evaporative’ or ’swamp’ coolers.
These are meant to provide comfort in places where the climate is not only hot but dry too. These devices actually suck in air from the outside through a wet pad. This ensures that the sensible heat of the air is reduced. However, it must be remembered that the total heat content of the air that has been sucked in remains unchanged as the sum of the sensible and latent heat remains constant. The sensible heat of the air that is reduced is actually converted to latent heat as the water from the wet cooler pads is evaporated absorbing heat from the air. The drier the air that enters the device, the better are the results. the good thing about these devices is that they are relatively cheaper than the regular air conditioners and the maintenance is also hassle free.
We also have the devices which are based on the technology of absorptive refrigeration. What this process basically does is to absorb heat to produce cooling. There are three stages to the entire process. First of all, the air is dehumidified by the cooler. This is done by a spray of salt-water or brine. It is through osmosis that the brine absorbs water vapor from the air. During the second stage water is sprayed in the air. This cools the air because of the evaporation that follows. To conclude, the air passes again through another brine spray so that the humidity of the air is controlled. Distillation ensures that the brine remains concentrated. This system has been used in some hospitals.
Such Evaporative air conditioners are separate from what we come across regularly and can actually provide a solution to those staying in hot, dry climates.
Steve
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September 21, 2008
Is it safe to drink water from the dehumidifier even after putting it into a Brita filter?
Da Austrian Oak asked:
I’m not cheap or anything–I just figured what the heck. I drink a gallon of water a day–the basin holds way more than a gallon, so most of it ends up going down the sink. My mom uses it to water plants when it gets full and needs to be emptied but when she’s not home and it gets full and she likes it to run all day, I’ve been saving the water in jugs. She said it might not be safe even w/ Brita because Brita says nothing about getting bacteria out of the water. What do you think?
Maybe I could boil it if there’s a chance for bacteria in it?
Ellen
I’m not cheap or anything–I just figured what the heck. I drink a gallon of water a day–the basin holds way more than a gallon, so most of it ends up going down the sink. My mom uses it to water plants when it gets full and needs to be emptied but when she’s not home and it gets full and she likes it to run all day, I’ve been saving the water in jugs. She said it might not be safe even w/ Brita because Brita says nothing about getting bacteria out of the water. What do you think?
Maybe I could boil it if there’s a chance for bacteria in it?
Ellen
September 16, 2008
Why Use a Crawl Space Dehumidifier?
Chuck Jaymes asked:
Many homes that don’t have a basement do have a crawl space. This is especially true in the southeastern United States. Although you may not realize it, excessive moisture and humidity are wafting up from your crawl space into your home. This is where a high quality crawl space dehumidifier comes into play.
The moisture laden air entering your home from the crawl space can affect your health and damage your home. Mold, mildew, wood rot and termites are just a few of the problems you will encounter if the high humidity in your crawl space is left unchecked. Mold can cause health problems and allergic reactions. Wood rot and termites can cause serious and expensive structural damage. The one thing mold, wood rot and termites have in common is that they need a source of moisture to survive. By controlling the moisture, you can protect both your health and your investment.
Many homeowners make the mistake of trying to use appliance grade dehumidifiers in their crawl space. Home and basement dehumidifiers ARE NOT designed and built for harsh crawl space environments. Either they can’t to the job required or they are over sized units for a tight crawl space. Appliance grade dehumidifiers can freeze up in outdoor climates or will run continuously because they are being overworked. This will add significantly to your electric bill.
It’s important to choose a dehumidifier that was designed and built for a crawl space environment. These units are designed to fit in a crawl space and are very energy efficient. When used with a vapor barrier, a crawl space dehumidifier can dramatically reduce the relative humidity levels in your home. Don’t trust some kid at Lowe’s or Home Depot to sell you the correct dehumidifier for your crawl space. Seek out professionals who feature equipment that was meant to solve your crawl space humidity problems.
Rhonda
Many homes that don’t have a basement do have a crawl space. This is especially true in the southeastern United States. Although you may not realize it, excessive moisture and humidity are wafting up from your crawl space into your home. This is where a high quality crawl space dehumidifier comes into play.
The moisture laden air entering your home from the crawl space can affect your health and damage your home. Mold, mildew, wood rot and termites are just a few of the problems you will encounter if the high humidity in your crawl space is left unchecked. Mold can cause health problems and allergic reactions. Wood rot and termites can cause serious and expensive structural damage. The one thing mold, wood rot and termites have in common is that they need a source of moisture to survive. By controlling the moisture, you can protect both your health and your investment.
Many homeowners make the mistake of trying to use appliance grade dehumidifiers in their crawl space. Home and basement dehumidifiers ARE NOT designed and built for harsh crawl space environments. Either they can’t to the job required or they are over sized units for a tight crawl space. Appliance grade dehumidifiers can freeze up in outdoor climates or will run continuously because they are being overworked. This will add significantly to your electric bill.
It’s important to choose a dehumidifier that was designed and built for a crawl space environment. These units are designed to fit in a crawl space and are very energy efficient. When used with a vapor barrier, a crawl space dehumidifier can dramatically reduce the relative humidity levels in your home. Don’t trust some kid at Lowe’s or Home Depot to sell you the correct dehumidifier for your crawl space. Seek out professionals who feature equipment that was meant to solve your crawl space humidity problems.
Rhonda
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September 10, 2008
Why do flowers like dehumidifier (i guess distilled) water so much?
newjediorder_1221 asked:
I’m just wondering. I’ve perked up so many dead flowers with this sort of water. Any special properties that plants like or something? Just curious lol. Thanks!
Dennis
I’m just wondering. I’ve perked up so many dead flowers with this sort of water. Any special properties that plants like or something? Just curious lol. Thanks!
Dennis
September 6, 2008
Dehumidifiers are Essential to Make Life Easier
Cherles Mark asked:
Dehumidifiers are designed in such a way so that humidity level in your room or home may remain under control. Basically, dehumidifiers are nothing more than air conditioners which come with cold and hot coils in the same box. By making use of the fan, a dehumidifier draws air from your room and cold coil condense the moisturizer and converts it into the dry air. This dry air keeps your room at normal temperature after passing through the cold coil. That’s the simple process which is sued in dehumidifiers.
If you are looking to buy dehumidifier for your home, then you must keep in mind that there are different designs available in the market for whole house dehumidifiers, closet dehumidifiers, basement dehumidifiers and portable humidifiers. Though it is a great thing that the variety has increased and you no longer have to choose amongst the clunky dehumidifiers with wood-grained finish, but, the problem of choosing amongst the so many is still there which makes it difficult to find the best dehumidifier.
In case you don’t know how to differentiate between the worst and the best dehumidifier, then here is what must be kept in mind while finalizing your buying decision.
• Always keep in mind that you must buy a dehumidifier after considering the size of your room. There are lots of portable dehumidifiers which are available in the market, but, if you will choose a portable humidifier without considering the size of your room then you will have face certain problems, biggest of which will be the excessive noise. In case of limited space, you can consider whole house dehumidifiers because they can be attached with your furnace and free up a bit more space. They, however, are more expensive to use and installation can also create a problem for you.
• It doesn’t matter if you are buying a whole house dehumidifier or closet dehumidifier, you must make sure that it comes with built-in humidistat. An indicator light should also be there for easy monitoring along with timers to control humidity levels in the right way. This control is essential because an excessively low humidity can give rise to certain problems.
• Choosing the dehumidifier with the right air filter is one of the most important things to keep in mind. Although it is important for all dehumidifiers, but, you must pay special attention to it while buying a basement dehumidifier. The filter is important because it enhances the air quality and prevents allergic reactions. So, you must lay emphasis on this point while shopping for basement dehumidifier and don’t forget that basement dehumidifiers should be extremely powerful.
All in all, it can easily be said that choosing the best dehumidifier is all about checking its few most important things. You can only make a right decision if you will consider its value, performance, ease of use and features. So, try to make a right decision by spending some time in learning more about the dehumidifiers and keeping aforementioned points in mind.
Nicholas
Dehumidifiers are designed in such a way so that humidity level in your room or home may remain under control. Basically, dehumidifiers are nothing more than air conditioners which come with cold and hot coils in the same box. By making use of the fan, a dehumidifier draws air from your room and cold coil condense the moisturizer and converts it into the dry air. This dry air keeps your room at normal temperature after passing through the cold coil. That’s the simple process which is sued in dehumidifiers.
If you are looking to buy dehumidifier for your home, then you must keep in mind that there are different designs available in the market for whole house dehumidifiers, closet dehumidifiers, basement dehumidifiers and portable humidifiers. Though it is a great thing that the variety has increased and you no longer have to choose amongst the clunky dehumidifiers with wood-grained finish, but, the problem of choosing amongst the so many is still there which makes it difficult to find the best dehumidifier.
In case you don’t know how to differentiate between the worst and the best dehumidifier, then here is what must be kept in mind while finalizing your buying decision.
• Always keep in mind that you must buy a dehumidifier after considering the size of your room. There are lots of portable dehumidifiers which are available in the market, but, if you will choose a portable humidifier without considering the size of your room then you will have face certain problems, biggest of which will be the excessive noise. In case of limited space, you can consider whole house dehumidifiers because they can be attached with your furnace and free up a bit more space. They, however, are more expensive to use and installation can also create a problem for you.
• It doesn’t matter if you are buying a whole house dehumidifier or closet dehumidifier, you must make sure that it comes with built-in humidistat. An indicator light should also be there for easy monitoring along with timers to control humidity levels in the right way. This control is essential because an excessively low humidity can give rise to certain problems.
• Choosing the dehumidifier with the right air filter is one of the most important things to keep in mind. Although it is important for all dehumidifiers, but, you must pay special attention to it while buying a basement dehumidifier. The filter is important because it enhances the air quality and prevents allergic reactions. So, you must lay emphasis on this point while shopping for basement dehumidifier and don’t forget that basement dehumidifiers should be extremely powerful.
All in all, it can easily be said that choosing the best dehumidifier is all about checking its few most important things. You can only make a right decision if you will consider its value, performance, ease of use and features. So, try to make a right decision by spending some time in learning more about the dehumidifiers and keeping aforementioned points in mind.
Nicholas
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September 5, 2008
Dehumidifier not drawing water?
snap_amt asked:
The dehumidifier is only 1 yr old, the compressor is running but it has stopped drawing water. Are there some maintenance tips I can follow?
Yvonne
The dehumidifier is only 1 yr old, the compressor is running but it has stopped drawing water. Are there some maintenance tips I can follow?
Yvonne
September 4, 2008
Dehumidifying Your Home
Amber Smith asked:
The level of humidity present in the atmosphere can have a big effect on your health and comfort. When the temperatures get soaring and the level of humidity in the air rises it can cause a lot of discomfort to those confined within their homes. People are often troubled with sleepless nights and wonder how they can combat this problem.
Modern technology has however come up with a machine known as a dehumidifier that serves as deliverance for the people suffering from this problem. For some people the idea of installing such a machine falls under the umbrella of luxury. But when you consider the long term health implications of the benefits that dehumidifiers have it becomes clear that they are surely something worth investing in.
The health risks of excessive humidity
Living in an environment that has more than the desired amount of humidity for the human body, can have adverse effects on your health. One of the things that the presence of excessive humidity does is that it increases the population of dust mites in the air. The increased volume of dust mites can trigger allergic reactions.
Then you have all sorts of other problems that excess humidity can cause to your home. You will find your windows to always be condensed. The humidity may even ruin the paint job on your house walls and pose a threat to the water pipes as well. Rust on metal and the warping of wood are other problems that high levels of humidity pose. Even your electronic items are not safe from the harmful effects of excess humidity.
To elaborate the case further on you will also find that the development of mold and fungus is also possible which can even give birth to foul odors in the air while posing an even greater threat to personal hygiene.
The recommended remedy
The obvious recommendation that anyone would give you under these circumstances is to install some sort of a dehumidifier in your home. After having understood the dire consequences that excess humidity can have on your health and your home it shouldn’t take too much convincing for one to actually go ahead and purchase one amongst the many different kinds of dehumidifiers available in the market.
Health care experts have determined that the ideal level of humidity that should be present in the air should range from 40% to 50%. In the summer time the level tends to increase far greater than the ideal content. Hence it becomes imperative for the health conscious people to take action and purchase some sort of a dehumidifying machine.
Things to consider
It is just as important not to rush towards buying any dehumidifier as is buying one. This is because there are many variations of the machine that serve the purpose in various ways. The different dehumidifiers have been developed to function according to different spaces.
You will be able to get a machine that works for a specific domain such as a basement dehumidifier or a whole house dehumidifier. Similarly you have portable dehumidifiers that can be carried around wherever you go. Hence it is important to take your living environment under consideration and choose your dehumidifier accordingly.
Philip
The level of humidity present in the atmosphere can have a big effect on your health and comfort. When the temperatures get soaring and the level of humidity in the air rises it can cause a lot of discomfort to those confined within their homes. People are often troubled with sleepless nights and wonder how they can combat this problem.
Modern technology has however come up with a machine known as a dehumidifier that serves as deliverance for the people suffering from this problem. For some people the idea of installing such a machine falls under the umbrella of luxury. But when you consider the long term health implications of the benefits that dehumidifiers have it becomes clear that they are surely something worth investing in.
The health risks of excessive humidity
Living in an environment that has more than the desired amount of humidity for the human body, can have adverse effects on your health. One of the things that the presence of excessive humidity does is that it increases the population of dust mites in the air. The increased volume of dust mites can trigger allergic reactions.
Then you have all sorts of other problems that excess humidity can cause to your home. You will find your windows to always be condensed. The humidity may even ruin the paint job on your house walls and pose a threat to the water pipes as well. Rust on metal and the warping of wood are other problems that high levels of humidity pose. Even your electronic items are not safe from the harmful effects of excess humidity.
To elaborate the case further on you will also find that the development of mold and fungus is also possible which can even give birth to foul odors in the air while posing an even greater threat to personal hygiene.
The recommended remedy
The obvious recommendation that anyone would give you under these circumstances is to install some sort of a dehumidifier in your home. After having understood the dire consequences that excess humidity can have on your health and your home it shouldn’t take too much convincing for one to actually go ahead and purchase one amongst the many different kinds of dehumidifiers available in the market.
Health care experts have determined that the ideal level of humidity that should be present in the air should range from 40% to 50%. In the summer time the level tends to increase far greater than the ideal content. Hence it becomes imperative for the health conscious people to take action and purchase some sort of a dehumidifying machine.
Things to consider
It is just as important not to rush towards buying any dehumidifier as is buying one. This is because there are many variations of the machine that serve the purpose in various ways. The different dehumidifiers have been developed to function according to different spaces.
You will be able to get a machine that works for a specific domain such as a basement dehumidifier or a whole house dehumidifier. Similarly you have portable dehumidifiers that can be carried around wherever you go. Hence it is important to take your living environment under consideration and choose your dehumidifier accordingly.
Philip
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