Air Exchanger Humidity
Humidity is often an issue when using an air exchanger. However, if the air exchanger you select is properly equipped, humidity simply becomes a part of the process and not a problem at all. Instead, you can focus on the important energy efficiency of your air exchanger, while reaping the benefits of lessened indoor air pollution.
An air exchanger essentially draws fresh air into the building from an open port which leads to the outside. The air is then passed through a chamber. It is this chamber that is the air exchanger. The chamber is surrounded by indoor air, and when the fresh air is drawn in through the unit, the heat energy takes the warmer air and exchanges it with cooler air. This allows the fresh air to be ducted into the building, while the stale indoor air is ducted outward and expelled. What you are left with is an energy exchange that reduces indoor air pollution and creates a better breathing environment for your health. As well as improved temperature depending on the unit used.
Humidity becomes an issue when the building is sealed too tightly, which does not allow excess moisture to escape. This is because modern buildings are built for energy efficiency and construction focuses on sealing the home from outdoor elements. This helps to keep heat in during colder months, and heat out during the hotter months. However, it also can lead to a buildup up of indoor pollutants such as cleaning agents, and excess moisture which can lead to mold.
In addition to the individual building construction, the use of the air exchanger itself can result in humidity. This is because as the air is exchanged, humidity from the temperature shifts can result in humidity. This is why purchasing an air exchanger that is equipped to handle humidity is important. Typically, humidity is handled through the use of an internal drain pan in the air exchanger unit.
The air exchanger drain pan collects water for disposal. You may need to manually empty the drain pan. Some units come with an attached hose that can take excess water from the drain pain and allow it to empty into their sump area. However, many models that are installed in basement areas come equipped with what is called a condensate pump. This part of the unit will pump the water outside for disposal so no internal drain pain is necessary.