desikointilaite

A desikointilaite, or desiccant dehumidifier, is a type of dehumidifier that uses a desiccant material to remove moisture from the air. Unlike refrigerant dehumidifiers which rely on cooling coils to condense water, desiccant units use a desiccant rotor, typically made of silica gel, that absorbs moisture. This rotor rotates continuously, with one section passing through the moist room air to absorb water vapor. Simultaneously, another section passes through a heated airstream, which drives off the absorbed moisture, regenerating the desiccant. The moist air expelled from the device is then vented outside.

Desikointilaitteet are effective in a wide range of temperatures, including low temperatures where refrigerant dehumidifiers may struggle. This makes them suitable for applications like basements, garages, boats, and unheated buildings. They can achieve very low humidity levels, often below 30% relative humidity, which is beneficial for preventing mold growth, protecting sensitive materials, and improving comfort. The process of desiccation is quieter than refrigeration cycles, and they often have fewer moving parts. However, they tend to consume more energy than refrigerant dehumidifiers when operating at typical room temperatures, as they require a heat source to regenerate the desiccant. The regenerated desiccant can also be sensitive to certain airborne contaminants.