de-humidifiers

Dez · #1 11-08-2002, 06:48 PM

Does anybody run these things? The humidity in my house is bad now that I've got 3 tanks going. I'm thinking about getting a dehumidifier. They are a stand alone unit (13.5 x 12 x 20 inches tall) and it does 1500 square feet. It drains into a bucket or floor drain. I am wondering if it would be safe to drain it back into my reservoir for my tank because after all, it's just taking the water out of the air right? Which would be the same as distilled water? I will probably buy the dehumidifier... it's $199. Let me know if any of you has any experience.

Des

Canadian Man · #2 11-08-2002, 07:13 PM

Hey Des.
I know Tony runs one, he should pipe in here some time today.
With my halides now running, all the windows in the house have a frosty appearance to them.
I got a rainforest in my house too

ldzielak · #3 11-08-2002, 07:49 PM

What model are you talking about Dez? I have been thinking of the same, but I think I would be better off spending the money enclosing my canopy. Both would be great.

I would not re-use the water, you can still get unwated byproducts when condensing you air, not only water condenses.

Lee

TANGOMAN · #4 11-08-2002, 07:51 PM

Isn't it great stumbling through a foggged in kitchen in the morning trying to find the coffee pot...one can run naked through the house without the threat of neighbors phonin' the cops because the windows are covered with moisture...
I personally would be relucctant(Sp. Tony?) to use water collected from a de-humid. unit but we smoke and god forbid I expose my fish to those carcinogenic (SP. Tony?) toxins.

It would just be a matter of time 'til they too were addicted and I'd find a crab, running through the fog, stealin' smokes... :shock:
Would that water be pure ?

zulu_principle · #5 11-08-2002, 08:45 PM

I use a dehumidifier and am quite happy with it, bought it at home depot and it gives me about 1 container each day.

I started with reusing the water, and I can tell you from experience it does not harm any of my fish. I only added it to a FOWLR tank. BUT, I also had consistent Cynobacteria until I stopped using the water. Never did test the water but I assume high phosphates and iron ??

I expected more and when I brought in a guy to look at the system he said I should be more concerned with circulating air so I leave my HVAC on full time.

My two cents worth.

Zulu

aquamansilver · #6 11-08-2002, 09:11 PM

I was just tinking to buy one also... my house is now like the amazone and must have 98% humidity in it.... :shock:

I already looked to buy such "portable" unit for my house last year but was told that it was no good in a 2+ floors house... so I didn't bougth it then... Now the problem is even worst! Does any one have experience with such unit in a 2 floors house? I wonder if there are dehumidifier units that can be attached to the central heating so it is not in the way?

Dez · #7 11-08-2002, 09:32 PM

I looked into getting a central one as well hooked to the vents in the basement. But it would run about $1000. Too much money to be spent. I thought about running glass tops but that doesn't solve the problem...there will still be humidity in the house.... It's mould that I'm concerned about....it's BAD for your health and I care about the house (a lifetime of investment) than my fish. So better get at the root of the problem eh? Anybody run a portable unit? I've got a 2-story house as well...

zulu.... Is yours a stand alone unit? And what's an HVAC?

Thanks..

Des

wayner · #8 11-08-2002, 09:41 PM

I have one and I think it might be for sale, it was bought at sears, removes ??? gallon per day, I think we paid $350 for it, we haven't used it since we moved to Calgary, cause there is no humidity here, it's so dry, i've been competing with our gecko to see who sheds the most skin.

Anyhow, I'll speak to the wife if anyone is interested in it.

zulu_principle · #9 11-08-2002, 09:41 PM

Des

Yes, mine is a stand alone, but this is setup in my fishroom, not the house so not too concerned about mold.

HVAC is Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning Unit.

I've never heard the 2 floor thing, but if you can't keep the temperature constant if becomes more difficult.

Wendell

aka Zulu

Bob I · #10 11-08-2002, 09:55 PM

My two bits worth is that I would be very surprised if anyone in Calgary, or in Admonchuk would ever have a humidity problem. Your central heating will suck that humidity right out. My tanks are in a 10x8 foot room, and the humidity right this moment is 31%, which according to the gauge is dry.