Maintaining ideal relative humidity levels in the built environment results in substantial benefits. By prioritizing humidity control, facilities managers can create an environment that optimizes productivity, preserves assets, and ensures the well-being of all occupants. Proper humidity regulation is a crucial component of comprehensive building management, and its positive impact extends across industries and facility types.
In industrial settings, the specific humidity requirement for a building depends on its function. For example, a typical manufacturing facility will rely on proper humidity control to ensure product quality and safety. Low humidity levels can cause static electricity buildup, damaging electronic components and disrupting equipment functionality. High humidity levels can lead to condensation, damaging sensitive electronics, machinery, and documents. Excessive moisture can also cause corrosion, mold growth, and deterioration of materials, resulting in costly repairs and replacements. Through tight control of humidity levels, facilities can protect their investments and prolong the lifespan of equipment.
Humidity control is also critical in pharmaceuticals, food processing, and electronics manufacturing industries. These sectors often require stringent humidity levels to ensure the integrity and safety of their products. Deviations from the specified humidity range can result in compromised product quality, reduced shelf life, and safety hazards. Manufacturers can ensure consistent product quality, prevent spoilage, and adhere to industry regulations by maintaining the appropriate humidity levels.
Proper humidity control is vital for patient comfort and recovery in healthcare facilities like hospitals and clinics. Low humidity levels can cause discomfort to patients and exacerbate respiratory conditions. On the other hand, high humidity levels can promote mold and bacteria growth, posing a risk to the health of patients and staff. Proper humidity management in healthcare facilities helps create a clean and sterile environment, reducing the spread of infections and ensuring optimal patient care.
In addition, facilities housing sensitive materials, such as museums, libraries, and archives, require precise humidity regulation to preserve invaluable artifacts and documents. Improper or fluctuating humidity levels can deteriorate delicate materials, including paper, textiles, and paintings. Low humidity can cause brittleness and irreversible damage, while high humidity can cause mold growth and warping of materials. Employing humidity control systems in these facilities is crucial for preserving cultural heritage and historical artifacts for future generations.
In warehouses and other storage facilities, maintaining optimal humidity levels helps protect goods and materials from potential damage caused by excessive or insufficient moisture. Low humidity may make materials brittle or susceptible to static electricity, leading to potential losses. On the other hand, high humidity can lead to condensation, mold growth, and corrosion, posing significant risks to the integrity of stored products and equipment. By adopting effective humidity control measures, warehouses can extend the shelf life of products, reduce the likelihood of spoilage, and minimize the need for frequent maintenance or replacements.
Creating Optimal Conditions
The relative humidity level should generally fall between 40% and 60% RH for optimal conditions in most facilities. You can use an inexpensive hygrometer to determine the RH levels in your facility. Take readings at various locations in the building and at different times of the day to comprehensively understand the humidity levels.
Facilities managers can employ various methods and technologies to achieve proper humidity control. Humidifiers and dehumidifiers adjust the humidity in specific areas or rooms as standalone units installed in the space or as part of the HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. These systems regulate humidity levels by adding moisture to the air or removing excess moisture. Advanced control systems and sensors can automatically monitor and maintain humidity levels within the desired range.
There are two types of humidification system technologies for commercial buildings—isothermal and adiabatic. Isothermal (steam) humidifiers work by boiling water inside the humidifier tank and distributing it into the ductwork through a steam manifold or directly into the space. Adiabatic (evaporative) humidifiers use the heat in the air to evaporate water into the ductwork or directly into the area. Adiabatic humidifiers provide humidification and evaporative cooling at the same time, which can provide benefits for applications with processes that create heat.
Commercial dehumidifiers come in various types, each designed to address specific humidity control needs in different settings. The most common kinds include refrigerant-based dehumidifiers and desiccant dehumidifiers. Refrigerant-based dehumidifiers are the most widely used commercial dehumidifiers. They operate similarly to residential dehumidifiers, using a refrigeration cycle to cool the air and condense moisture. The condensed water is then collected and drained away. Refrigerant-based dehumidifiers are efficient, relatively inexpensive, and effective in moderate humidity conditions. Desiccant dehumidifiers use a desiccant material (like silica gel) to absorb moisture from the air. They are especially useful in low-temperature environments or when low humidity levels are required. Desiccant dehumidifiers work well in colder climates and can handle extremely high humidity.
By recognizing the significance of humidity control and implementing appropriate measures, facilities managers can create optimal conditions for all stakeholders, improving well-being and productivity.
Valerie Bradt is marketing communications manager at DriSteem and has over eight years of experience in the HVAC sector.