desiccant dehumidifier how it works?

desiccant dehumidifier how it works?

Desiccant dehumidifiers are a relatively new technology for combating moisture in colder spaces where traditional dehumidifiers with compressors fail. Instead, desiccant dehumidifiers utilize the properties of a volcanic mineral called zeolite, which has the unique ability to absorb moisture. As a dehumidification medium, zeolite is a natural and highly porous material with excellent absorption capabilities.

So how does a desiccant dehumidifier work?

Take the Kullhaus DDQ10L dehumidifier as an example. The air is filtered through the pre-filter and the activated carbon filter and directed to the spinning wheel, which is filled with the zeolite material. Unlike compressor dehumidifier, desiccant dehumidifier uses the zeolite wheel inside to soak up the moisture in the air like a sponge and then use an internal heater to restore the wheel’s dryness while the excess moisture goes into the dehumidifier’s special tank where the water is collected. With the ability to prevent frost inside, the heating process ensures that the air passing through the dehumidification wheel is warm and dry, and the device can maintain high efficiency even at low temperatures.

To remove the accumulated moisture from the dehumidification wheel, the dehumidifier uses a 420/720-W heating element and fan. These components blow hot air over the zeolite, effectively drying it out. The goal is to maintain a dry zeolite material that can continuously absorb excess relative humidity. As a result, the air that the dehumidifier releases back into the room is not only dry, but also about 10-12 °C warmer than the air that originally entered the unit.

IMPORTANT: It is important for the dehumidifier with desiccant technology to cool down internally after the dehumidification process to dissipate the heat generated. Therefore, the fan continues to run for two minutes. It is important to never unplug the dehumidifier before the dehumidification cycle is complete.

When should I use a zeolite dehumidifier?

It is important to note that the dehumidifier should be used in rooms where there is either no heating or insufficient and sporadic heating.

As a general guideline, if the room temperature is below 15°C, the zeolite dehumidifier (desiccant) should be used. This type of dehumidifier is the only one that remains unaffected by a drop in temperature of 1°C.

In Europe, desiccant dehumidifiers are traditionally used in country houses, caravans, warehouses and similar places where there is no heating. However, in modern times, many permanent residences also suffer from insufficient heating, which leads to significant problems with humidity and mold.

Is it necessary to replace the zeolite material?

The zeolite material of the dehumidifier will last for many years. Its service life depends on the amount of use. In general, the desiccant wheel should be replaced every five years. Over time, a porous absorbent material gradually loses its ability to absorb moisture efficiently. The decreasing effectiveness is directly related to the number of years the unit has been used.