So you think your project is safe from mold since you cannot see any problem right? That would be incorrect! Most new commercial construction projects are prone to developing mold at the project site when humidity and moisture is unmanaged.

So you think your project is safe from mold since you cannot see any problem right? That would be incorrect! Most new commercial construction projects are prone to developing mold at the project site when humidity and moisture is unmanaged. This mold growth not only damages the facility and indoor materials but can lead to health issues and decrease in the construction productivity.

This problem can be easily avoided. John Rinck, National Sales and Service Manager at Topp Portable Air, gives a solution to the problem. “Contractors should be proactive and avoid the problem completely. By using a simple three pronged process of dehumidification, construction contractors will improve material stability until permanent systems are turned on and running,” he said.

Refrigerant dehumidifiers are widely considered to be the most effective method of removing moisture in environments with higher ambient temperatures (above 45°F) and humidity levels. They work by passing ambient air over a cold evaporator coil. As the air hits the coils, it cools and "gives up" some of its moisture which forms on the coils and drains down its pump or condensate collection tank. Condensation forms because of the difference in temperature. The air is then reheated and blown back into the space. This warmer dry air then picks up additional moisture and is recycled back through the unit. This approach utilizes the three most important elements in moisture removal (air movement, warmer ambient air, and a moisture removal device).

Refrigerant dehumidifiers are the most efficient dehumidifier to use when there are humidity sensitive porous materials to be cured. Most finished buildings will maintain humidity levels of 35 – 60% Relative Humidity under normal operating conditions. Utilizing Refrigerant dehumidifiers will provide a more adaptable environment so that when permanent systems are turned on, the building has already cured at the appropriate humidity levels. Topp Portable Air’s own manufactured Mobile Cool line of dehumidifiers can be set up in a variety of applications and has heat capabilities to extend its abilities in diverse climates and applications. These lines of dehumidifiers are very cost effective, easier to use and install than the large desiccant style because they can be placed directly in the area to be dehumidified. This is particularly advantageous in highly segmented areas or high rise buildings where desiccants cannot be used.

Other benefits of using refrigerant dehumidifiers are that they operate on low voltage power which is commonly available on all construction sites, the units are very portable and easily maintained. The ability of these refrigerant dehumidifiers to move large amounts of air enable them to remove more moisture that other dehumidification style units. Most importantly, contractors can rest assure TOPP dehumidifiers can preserve conditions so that mold-related problems are brought to a halt.

For more information, go to TOPP Portable Air.