Apr 6 2017
Modern, efficient building design is great for saving on energy costs — but can lead to poor indoor air quality and negative impacts on human health. One way to improve air quality while still maintaining sustainability best practices is with the IW25 from Innovative Dehumidifier Systems (www.innovativedehumidifiers.com).
Today, sustainable building is achieved by making homes "tighter." The newest construction methods have resulted in homes that are more airtight than ever. However, when indoor air can't be exchanged for fresh, outdoor air, pollutants and moisture levels can build up quickly. Builders are now beginning to consider the right balance between health and sustainability. Innovative Dehumidifier Systems can make finding that balance much easier.
The changing seasons presents another challenge, even for the most well-designed homes and buildings. During spring and early summer, increased humidity provides energy for mold growth, many species of which are highly toxic. Even if mold colonies go unnoticed and don't impact the health of residents, they can still consume building materials like wood and drywall. Over time, this can weaken the buildings structure and require expensive remediation.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association climate predictions for the April to June timeframe indicate good chances for warmer-than-average temperatures throughout the Northeast, along with normal precipitation numbers. Average spring rains plus warmer temperatures would create ripe conditions for mold growth. The only other ingredient mold needs is dark spaces — like those found somewhere in virtually every building.
The IW25 unit has a built-in auto-dehumidistat to pull up to 25 pints of moisture from the air daily. Collected water empties automatically through a hidden gravity drain. The unit is independent of the HVAC system and blends inconspicuously into the wall. And unlike typical freestanding dehumidifiers, the IW25 is whisper-quiet. The in-wall IW25 dehumidifier is ENERGY STAR® certified, which means it meets the highest standards in efficiency. The IW25 reduces energy consumption by about one third, and builders that install IW25 units are eligible for LEED and EarthCraft points. Homeowners also benefit in the form of both lower energy costs and cleaner, healthier air.
Improved indoor air quality combined with sustainability makes the IW25 a more-than-worthwhile investment. Even in homes where moisture and mold have been problems in the past, this appliance can prevent them from returning.