Energy Saving Dehumidifiers and Humidifiers

By: EconomyWatch   Date: 30 April 2010

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How to save energy while increasing or decreasing humidity

A traditional dehumidifier could use as much energy as a refrigerator. And the energy saved by an energy-saving 40 pint dehumidifier can run a refrigerator for six months, according to energystar.gov.

Americans spend approximately $250 million per year on home air purifiers, including dehumidifiers. Energy-saving dehumidifiers could use 10-20% less energy than their conventional counterparts.

There are several initiatives being taken across the globe to promote energy saving products. For instance, in the US Energy Star, which is a joint program by the US Environmental Protection Agency and the US Department, is an initiative that is gaining momentum. Long Island Power Utility (LIPA), a non-profitable municipal electric utility in the US, is promoting the use of Energy Star qualified dehumidifiers by introducing rebates through 2008.

A desiccant dehumidifier, which exposes a desiccant material, such as silica gel, molecular sieves and activated alumina, is a good alternative for removing humidity from home basements. Desiccants can also work in concert with chillers or conventional air conditioning systems to cool low-moisture air and generate up to 50% cost savings. Desiccants can cut cooling loads and peak demand.

At times, dehumidifiers are required not just in one area, but across the entire house. In such cases, the use of whole-home dehumidifier is the best energy-saving option. Whole-home dehumidifiers are up to four times more energy efficient than the latest portable dehumidifiers.

Solar dehumidifiers have given consumers another way to lower energy bills. For instance, SolarVenti units, used in the UK, can provide up to 1600 kilowatt-hours of free space heating energy per annum, based on the model used. According to solarventi.co.uk, a large SolarVenti unit can result in energy saving of roughly 35%.

Instead of using humidifiers during winter, when the air is exceptionally dry inside homes due to the use of heating equipments, one can use old-fashioned methods to raise moisture content. Hang wet clothes on a clothes rack to dry instead of using a dryer. Additionally, place a pan with water on a radiator. While taking a shower, plug in the shower drain and keep the water in the tub for a few hours.

In case the dehumidifier does not have top-mounted air discharge, it’s best to locate the device away from walls and furniture. This enables air to circulate freely around the unit and can increase the efficiency of the dehumidifier.

 


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