ReplyAny equipment in unconditioned space needs insulated. Most low humidity problems in the winter are due to cold air infiltration. Seal up windows and doors. Then look into a steam humidifier that mounts on the ducts, like an Aprilaire 800.
New Guest
I have a Mitsubishi system with 2 zones of heating and cooling. 1 Zone in the basement heats my first floor. 2nd zone handler located in the attic heats the bedrooms. My problem is that during the winter it gets really dry, mainly in one zone. Symptoms are dry nose and skin of all of the house occupants. I called an HVAC in Massachusetts and they all tell me to buy a standalone humidifier. I did that and humidity is still leaking out. Should my air handlers be insulated, because right now they are not. Any tips or ideas?
Professional Member*
Any equipment in unconditioned space needs insulated. Most low humidity problems in the winter are due to cold air infiltration. Seal up windows and doors. Then look into a steam humidifier that mounts on the ducts, like an Aprilaire 800.
Professional Member*
That’s not an equipment problem it’s an air infiltration problem.
Have a blower door test done, find and fix the air leaks.
Global Moderator
All the equipment does is heat the air. It only removes moisture in cooling mode.
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New Guest
This is a good suggestion, I will try to do this. Both the attic and basement get very cold during the winter and they are unconditioned spaces. Is it still worth insulating the air handlers?Originally Posted by pecmsg
New Guest
I should also say that if I leave my system off and run the humidifier the humidity returns and it feels less dry.
New Guest
I have booked an appointment with Mass Save to do a free assessment of my home insulation. I also took a look up in my attic and found that the ducting is pretty well insulated. The air handler unit is not insulated on the outside but on the inside the unit has this black insulating material screwed to the walls. Is this normal?
Professional Member*
Duct leakage bring in attic air?
Blower door test will tell
New Guest
Thank you everyone for the helpful hints, I will update this posting after the insulation inspection.
Professional Member*
INFILTRATION not insulation.... As in blower door test on the home.
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