Originally Posted by
vorkosigan1
Hi-
If you have any thoughts on high-velocity AC generally, or the one zone versus two zone, I'd appreciate hearing them, but that's not the main reason I'm writing.
Because we're concerned about moisture in the basement, our contractor was making noises about installing a heat recovery ventilation system. Looking at that, it basically looks like a heat exchanger to me, which seems more likely to add maintenance hassles than to significantly reduce energy costs (especially after cost of installationg). What do you think? Any thoughts on HRV generally?
More importantly, after looking at what I've seen on hvac-talk, what makes sense to me is to install an whole-house dehumidifier, acting on both fresh air intake, and on the return air, so that we can keep RH below 50%. Also, that way, we can run the dehumidifier when the weather's right and not run the AC, which should save on energy costs. Any thoughts on a whole-house dehumidifier versus an HRV, or a whole-house dehumidifier in addition to an HRV?
Also, do you know which whole house humidifiers use a standard filter, as opposed to a custom one?
Finally, can you recommend any good AC contractors in the Washington, DC area? I don't know who our general contract works with, and I'd like to have some options.
Thank you, very much.
Very perceptive! During cold windy winter weather, your home will get enough natural fresh air ventilation. Yet during calm moderate temperatures, you will benefit from fresh air ventilation. Using a whole house ventilating dehumidifier is the most practical method of being able to providing upto merv 14 air filtering for both the fresh air and house air. This will also assure <50%RH throughout the home during damp cool weather. This requires a return from the open part of the house and a 6" fresh air return to the WH dehu. The dehu supplies goes to the three living areas of the homes and a small supply to the basement. Consider the possible addition of humidifier to dehu loop for winter humidification if needed. The fresh air ventilation should be provided when the home is occupied and the weather moderate.
Regarding the a/c, high pressure is ok. Avoid any ducts in an unheated attic space which can have winter condensation problems.
I suggest that you consider the Ultra-Aire 105H is the optimum WHV dehumidifier. They are one of the sponors of this web site.
Regards TB
Bear Rules: Keep our home <50% RH summer, controls mites/mold and very comfortable.
Provide 60-100 cfm of fresh air when occupied to purge indoor pollutants and keep window dry during cold weather. T-stat setup/setback +8 hrs. saves energy
Use +Merv 10 air filter. -Don't forget the "Golden Rule"