You’ve decided your dehumidification needs can be met with a portable unit. By avoiding a permanent industrial dehumidification system installation you’ve saved probably thousands of dollars. Awesome! That’s always good for business!
One question remains: what size portable unit do you need to effectively meet your needs? Here is a helpful framework for determining the right answer to this question.
Sizing metrics
The size of the dehumidifier is relative to the unit’s capacity, which is rated in pints of water removed from the air over a 24-hour period. Effective sizing begins with the pints rating of the unit, weighed against the size of the space, in square feet, that it will be used in. It then must take into account the overall humidity both within the space and the outside environment. The humidity of the outside environment represents the potential humidity that will continue to pervade the space.
AHAM rating
Leading manufacturers recommend choosing a dehumidifier tested by The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM). The AHAM sponsors a comprehensive testing program called The Dehumidifier Verification Program. “The program’s purpose is to assure the end user that the water removal capacity and energy factor claimed for a dehumidifier which carries the AHAM Verification Mark is accurate,” the AHAM says.
“The water removal capacity and energy factor of a dehumidifier are certified by the manufacturer under the terms of the program, and the testing organization checks the performance of random samples taken from factory, warehouse and/or dealer showrooms throughout the nation.”
Dehumidifier capacity is tested in rated conditions of 80ºF dry-bulb temperature, 69.6ºF wet-bulb temperature, and 60% relative humidity. This is as opposed to saturated conditions (100% humidity). A unit operating at AHAM-tested conditions is more effective than a unit with the same capacity operating in saturated conditions.
Additional factors
If your space is located in a humid climate, you will want to add roughly 10 pints to the capacity of the unit you choose. Other things to consider are whether multiple people will be occupying the space much of the day. Are there multiple doors and windows in the space? Is equipment nearby which creates steam? Experts recommend you add 5 pints for each of these factors present.
Finally, the AHAM has a helpful dehumidifier sizing chart to aid you in determining the ideal size unit for your space included in their Directory of Verified Dehumidifiers.
Q Applied Systems is a leading representative of state-of-the-art HVAC, moisture control, fume and dust collection equipment manufacturers. Find out how Q Applied Systems can help you find the best dehumidification solution for your space by reading about our manufacturing partners or by calling (858) 435-2236 today.
