Commercial Dehumidifiers
American Conservation Consortium provides commercial
dehumidifiers made by
DEC ThermaStor
(click link to visit their web site). The most common model we suggest for an
excellent combination of efficiency and cost is the Santa Fe, but other models
are available. This dehumidifier
has a rated capacity of 100 pints per day, yet uses no more electricity than
conventional 50 pint units. One of its primary advantages is that it can be used
at very low temperatures without freezing up, unlike conventional dehumidifiers.
Theoretically, it is still functional in the 30's F (conventional household
"hardware store" dehumidifiers frost up between 60-65 degrees), but a more realistic
lower end if used in conjunction with dehumidistatically controlled heat is
around 55 degrees F. Both the intake and exhaust can be ducted, allowing remote
installation, or installation in a bypass manner into an existing air handling
system. The dehumidistat in all of their units is the Honeywell H46C
ribbon type that produces very poor RH stability if the ambient temperatures
fluctuate (see this graph), so a digital
control system is highly recommended, particularly if the unit is ducted into a
heating system.
American Conservation Consortium is qualified for a trade purchase discount
for all of DEC ThermaStor's dehumidifiers and accessories. Generally, this
is 50% off of the manufacturer's retail prices. We resell the equipment to
museums and non-profits at our cost as a service to the field. For this reason, we can assist you only with quantity orders, as generally you will find it more convenient working with a local supplier for 1 or 2 units as the dehumidifiers are drop-shipped from the factory via motor freight. However, if your local supplier is too pricey, we will consider helping you with smaller purchases.
