Desiccant-assisted air conditioner improves IAQ and comfort

Journal Article · Sat Oct 01 04:00:00 EDT 1994 · Heating, Piping and Air Conditioning; (United States)

OSTI ID:7002552

Meckler, M ^[1]

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1. Meckler Group., Encino, CA (United States)

This article describes a system which offers the advantage of downsizing the evaporator coil and condensing unit capacities for comparable design loads, which in turn provides numerous benefits. Airborne microorganisms, which are responsible for many acute diseases, infections, and allergies, are well protected indoors by the moisture surrounding them. While the human body is generally the host for various bacteria and viruses, fungi can grow in moist places. It has been concluded that an optimum relative humidity (RH) range of 40 to 60 percent is necessary to minimize or eliminate the bacterial, viral, and fungal growth. In addition, humidity also has an effect on air cleanliness--it reduces the presence of dust particles--and on the deterioration of the building structure and its contents. Therefore, controlling humidity is a very important factor to human comfort in minimizing adverse health effects and maximizing the structural longevity of the building.

• OSTI ID: 7002552
• Journal Information: Heating, Piping and Air Conditioning; (United States), Journal Name: Heating, Piping and Air Conditioning; (United States) Vol. 66:10; ISSN HPAOAM; ISSN 0017-940X
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATION
320106* -- Energy Conservation
Consumption
& Utilization-- Building Equipment-- (1987-)
320107 -- Energy Conservation
Consumption
& Utilization-- Building Systems-- (1987-)
AIR CONDITIONERS
AIR POLLUTION
AIR QUALITY
BUILDINGS
COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS
DESICCANTS
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
INDOOR AIR POLLUTION
INSTITUTIONAL SECTOR
POLLUTION
RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS