Ventilator Dehumidifiers

Detail ID 6.0305.1
Topic
Whole-Building Ventilation
Subtopic
Dehumidification
Desired Outcome

Provide adequate fresh air and maintain desired indoor humidity

SF Single Family Site-Built Housing
MH Manufactured Housing
MF Multifamily Housing

Specifications

  • SF
  • MF
Specification Objective

Equipment must be ENERGY STAR® rated and must have an auto-restart to maintain settings through power failures

Dehumidification ventilator will be a ducted unit and will provide outside air to the home or space

Ensure efficient dehumidification and fresh air

  • SF
  • MF
Specification Objective

Size the system with enough capacity to handle humidity from outside air ventilation and internal gains

Maintain humidity levels inside the home at less than 60% relative humidity

For residential applications, follow ASHRAE 62.2 and local code requirements to identify design airflow rates within dwelling units

For commercial applications, follow local code requirements and/or ASHRAE 62.1 requirements

Ensure system ability to maintain the desired humidity

  • SF
  • MF
Specification Objective

Locate equipment in an area with access to HVAC supply trunk line or plenum, and orient outside air intake so the effective length of the duct run is as short as possible

Easy access to existing ductwork and fresh air source

  • SF
  • MF
Specification Objective

Mount ventilator using mechanical fasteners per manufacturer's specifications and applicable code (e.g., seismic restraints)

Isolate unit from the building framing unless specifically designed to be directly attached

Secure, vibration-isolated dehumidifier

  • SF
  • MF
Specification Objective

Install ventilator according to manufacturer specifications and applicable code

Correct installation

  • SF
  • MF
Specification Objective

Install all electrical wiring according to manufacturer specifications and applicable code

Prevent an electrical hazard

  • SF
  • MF
Specification Objective

Install dehumidistat in accordance with manufacturer specifications

Operation of the dehumidifier will be based upon humidity/temperature in the return air, or will provide supply air at a specified temperature and humidity

Controls support dehumidification strategy

  • SF
  • MF
Specification Objective

Seal all air moving portions of the system using UL 181 products without interfering with the function of dampers

Airtight ventilation system with freely operating dampers

  • SF
  • MF
Specification Objective

Connect condensate drain according to manufacturer specifications to a drain location approved by applicable code

Insulate all condensate lines outside the thermal boundary to a minimum of R-4

Safe and reliable condensate drainage

  • SF
  • MF
Specification Objective

Ensure fan, service disconnect switch, filters, and drains are accessible for maintenance according to NEC, or applicable building code

Serviceable parts are readily accessible

  • SF
  • MF
Specification Objective

If fire dampers are required in the fresh air supply duct, install them according to applicable building code

Fire dampers must be accessible for inspection and/or testing

Sealing activities must not interfere with the operation of fire dampers, balancing dampers, or backdraft dampers

Fire dampers function effectively and are accessible

View Sub-Topic:
Dehumidification