Humidification

Refrigerated air conditioning equipment usually reduces the humidity of the air processed by the system. The relatively cold (below the dewpoint) evaporator coil condenses water vapor from the processed air, (much like a cold drink will condense water on the outside of the glass), sending the water to a drain and removing water vapour from the cooled space and lowering the relative humidity. Since humans perspire to provide natural cooling by the evaporation of perspiration from the skin, drier air (up to a point) improves the comfort provided. The comfort air conditioner typically creates a 40 – 60% relative humidity in the occupied space. In food, retailing establishments, large open chiller cabinets act as very efficient air dehumidifying units. Humidification is often necessary for colder climates where continuous heating will make the air drier, resulting in uncomfortable air quality and increased static electricity. Various types of humidification may be used, but, in air conditioning or climate control, evaporative coolers are used where dry air is blown over a reservoir evaporating some of the water

Humidifiers

Humidification is often necessary for colder climates where continuous heating will make the air drier, resulting in uncomfortable air quality and increased static electricity. Various types of humidification may be used: Evaporative: dry air blown over a reservoir will evaporate water. The rate of evaporation can be increased by spraying the water onto baffles in the air stream. Vaporizer: steam or vapour from a boiler is blown directly into the air flow. Spray mist: water is diffused either by a nozzle or other mechanical means into fine droplets and carried by air.