Background information
Reservoirs for drinking water, which is a foodstuff, often have challenges with moisture. It can lead to mold growth, corrosion but also damage to instruments and equipment. This leads to increased maintenance costs. During parts of the year, the premises are cooled by cold raw water from the bedrock, which often leads to elevated relative humidity levels as warmer moist air is ventilated in.
Evaluation
On the first visit, measurements identified several places with excessive moisture levels. With a relative humidity level above 60%, corrosion occurs. Damage could easily be identified on several pipes, fittings and parts of walls. As moisture penetrates reinforced concrete, there is also a risk of concrete cracking when the reinforcement corrodes.
A test was decided and a FLEX and a REX were installed. The installation is simple as no unnecessary piping is needed. Only electricity supply and handling of reduced water. The purpose was to demonstrate the difference by using a dehumidifier.
After 2 months, new measurements were taken and a reduction in the moisture level of over 10% was observed.
Investment
It was then decided to invest in several FLEXs and a REX. A couple of the FLEXs are controlled by means of an external sensor (dew point control) so that the temperature of the coldest surface determines the correct relative humidity level in the air.
Benefits of using awg products vs. doing nothing?
The test showed that we needed to use dehumidifiers to overcome the moisture problems. Ventilating doesn't work, but rather risks contributing to excessive moisture levels. Especially during the summer months.
The fact that the dehumidifier is just as effective down to minus degrees is a big advantage. The fact that it was possible to install the machines in a good way and that the energy consumption is low made the decision easy!