What is a dehumidifier used for?

Next up in our series of product focused blogs – industrial dehumidifiers. So, what is a dehumidifier used for? We’ll talk you through everything you need to know, from what they are and their applications to how they could benefit your business. Interested? Learn more below. 

Dehumidification is the process whereby moisture or humidity is removed from the air by dehumidifiers and air circulation. It's an important factor for business operations across most sectors, meaning there is an abundance of dehumidification solutions widely available.

Let’s start with the basics. What is a dehumidifier used for in industrial applications? And how is it different to a regular one? Industrial dehumidifiers are pieces of equipment used to control moisture levels in critical working environments. Where humidity is a problem in your workplace, a dehumidifier for industrial use can get you to the right kind of environment you need for the smooth running of your business.

In terms of the differences between a regular dehumidifier and an industrial one, it all comes down to scale. Regular dehumidifiers are great for personal use in the home, but they can’t compete when it comes to large -scale environments such as power plants and building sites.

We’ve covered what dehumidifiers are and what they’re used for. So, how do industrial dehumidifiers work to decrease moisture levels? Here at Aggreko, we manufacture all of our desiccant dehumidifiers with an internal silica gel wheel that draws air into the gel while rotating, and therefore retains any moisture. Next, the dried air is expelled back into the atmosphere. Finally the wheel is heated, vaporising the trapped moisture before blowing it back outside of the building.

What is a dehumidifier used for across various industries and sectors? We've listed some commonly used dehumidifier applications below:

• Preventing metal corrosion
• Preserving any equipment that may be laid up on vessels or oil rigs
• Reducing the growth of mould and mildew 
• Reducing the length of drying time for concrete, fireproofing or insulation
• Maintaining the appropriate conditions for floor laying
• Drying out commercial buildings with water damage
• Aiding processes, e.g. preserving food products

Where ambient conditions are important, a dehumidifier for industrial use can help. The benefits of dehumidifiers used in commercial or industrial settings often amount to large financial savings, including saving vital equipment from moisture damage, speeding up drying processes and maintaining the optimum atmosphere for machines to work at their most efficient level. From shipping to construction – industrial dehumidifier hire is a great option for a number of different sectors. Keeping machinery up and running is crucial for ensuring the continuity of production. So combat any equipment failures in advance with a dehumidifier to reduce the risk of humidity or damp damaging your critical assets.