Energy conservation goals may conflict with moisture management goals. In fact, traditional methods of dehumidification, such as reheat systems, may increase energy use, Ron Vallort, ASHRAE president, said.
"Considering energy conservation and moisture management goals in the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of HVAC systems can minimize energy use and cost," he said. "However, the impact of mold proliferation suggests that energy cost savings should not be achieved at the expense of sound moisture management."
Minimizing Indoor Mold Through Management of Moisture in Building Systems outlines ASHRAE's position on the management of moisture in buildings by describing issues related to the topic and highlighting resources available through the Society regarding the management of moisture and mold in buildings.
The document recommends that for proper moisture management:
Minimizing Indoor Mold Through Management of Moisture in Building Systems can be downloaded for free via the "Position Documents" shortcut at www.ashrae.org.
Publication date: 06/06/2005