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Author Topic: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?  (Read 52158 times)

Offline julian the woodnut

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Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« on: March 17, 2009, 08:43:10 PM »
I have a small solar kiln similiar to the virginia tech kiln. http://http://www.woodscience.vt.edu/about/extension/vtsolar_kiln/

My question is this. I have a good sized dehumidifier that I want to throw in the kiln to speed up the process. Will it help out? I am guessing that I will just have to seal up the rear vents so it's pretty airtight. Is there anything else I should do or watch for?

Offline Frank Pender - AKA "Tail Gunner"

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #1 on: March 17, 2009, 09:42:44 PM »
Julian, for the woods that I dry out here on the Left Coast, I disconected my dehumidfier and keep the hot moisture in the container.  I found that for me the wood is coming out just as good or better.  I let the moisture ooooooz out of the container through the not always air tight doors and a small 1 1/2" hole in the side of unit. 


You might want to try an experimental load without removing the moisture to awfully fast and see what results.

Offline Carl Middleton

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #2 on: March 19, 2009, 05:46:50 PM »
Frank, That 1 1/2" ozzzzing hole in the side of the kiln is it close to the floor or up high? I to have a solar kiln and I dont use any vents and does a good job drying my lumber. Im starting to build another kiln and and looking at other ways that could work better

Offline Frank Pender - AKA "Tail Gunner"

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #3 on: March 21, 2009, 07:11:26 AM »
Carl, the hole is near the floor, a port of entry for electrical wireing.

Offline Carl Middleton

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #4 on: March 21, 2009, 07:32:18 AM »
Frank. The kiln I'm building now will be portable Its 8'x18' and sets on 5x8 skids so i can pull it onto a trailer to transport to different sites if need to I will use solar panel and 12 volt truck fans for air movement The reason behind this is for rental use at the customers site insteed of hauling the lumber back and forth from my place. What are your thoughts about this idea.

Offline Frank Pender - AKA "Tail Gunner"

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #5 on: March 21, 2009, 07:53:20 AM »
I think you have a great idea, Carl.  In fact, I would probably put it on a trailer, in the beginning.

Offline julian the woodnut

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #6 on: March 21, 2009, 09:10:59 AM »
Thanks for the replies. Since I have sealed up the kiln and added the DH, the wood( white elm) has dropped from 13%mc to 8%mc in 3 days. I guess it is working pretty well. The DH raises the temp considerably inside the kiln. It was almost 90 degrees in there yesterday, and it was in the mid 40's outside.

Offline Frank Pender - AKA "Tail Gunner"

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #7 on: March 22, 2009, 11:12:36 AM »
Sounds like you are having some success, Julian.  Good show!

Offline julian the woodnut

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #8 on: March 26, 2009, 09:24:40 PM »
Well, if it isn't one thing it's another. The dehumidifier I put in the kiln stopped working after 3 days. I took it apart and soldered in a new TCO ($1.68 at radio shack) for the fan motor and was back up and running. Now the damn compressor is only working intermittently. The kenmore DH is 4 years old and was used non stop in my shop for a solid 6 months, so I guess it's seen better days. Too bad it's not working properly because I was very interested in charting the progress.

Offline julian the woodnut

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #9 on: June 13, 2009, 09:41:45 AM »
So my solar kiln has been working nonstop since I built it last fall with various loads of woods from spalted birch, mulberry, elm, cherry, and some unknown trees. I have to say that it was the best couple hundred dollars I've ever spent.

I have removed the DH from the kiln due to it's poor made in china quality. It worked a few days, then the thermal cutoff switch fried, so I cleaned the fan motor, replaced the tco, then the condenser stopped working. I have come to find out that almost all the DH's sold at big box stores are manufactured by the same crappy factory in china.


So Carl, have you had a chance to use the kiln you were talking about building in April?

Offline Carl Middleton

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #10 on: June 13, 2009, 07:53:22 PM »
juilan,I havent finished the kiln yet, got the subfloor and skids complete and covered up. I got to busy with work between the sawing and concrete bussiness I cant seam to get caught up which is good I figure I better make it while I can ;D Who knows how the second half of the year will be. But I do need to get working on it. Right now I have over 4000 bdft  waiting to go in and more request weekly. I might be money ahead to hire someone to construct it for me But I'm kind of picky about how I want things done so I usely end up doing it myself

Offline Frank Pender - AKA "Tail Gunner"

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #11 on: June 13, 2009, 11:18:23 PM »
I disconected my Ebac 800 and found that the lumber is just as good or better.  I let the moist air ooze out of the trailer and the lumber is great.

Offline Buzz Sawyer

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #12 on: June 14, 2009, 10:42:26 AM »
Julian a couple of thoughts....an OLD a/c unit will do what you want just take the shroud off and set the whole unit in the kiln....it will produce heat and dehumidify too.....



AND as Frank said moist heat prevents a condition in would called case hardening...so there is a benfit to it ;)

Offline mike p

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #13 on: June 15, 2009, 02:12:05 PM »
 
I disconected my Ebac 800 and found that the lumber is just as good or better.  I let the moist air ooze out of the trailer and the lumber is great.
so do you mean the box produces enough heat. not useing the 800 unit at all . please clairfy
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Offline Frank Pender - AKA "Tail Gunner"

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #14 on: June 15, 2009, 11:21:45 PM »
The ebac never did produce enough heat for the entire container to dry the wood.  I only used it in the beginning to remove the moisture.  I since have discovered that the wood was better without the unit operating.  The primary source of heat has always been a Taylor hotwater furnace, for a 24'  refer trailer.

Offline mike p

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #15 on: June 17, 2009, 04:53:34 PM »
aaaaaaaaaa i see thanks
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My reading of history convinces me that most bad government results from
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 No free man shall ever be debarred the use of arms.

   Thomas Jefferson

Offline Frank Pender - AKA "Tail Gunner"

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #16 on: June 18, 2009, 10:50:56 AM »
I still have a brand new Ebac 3000, still in the box that I will probably never use, if you are interested. 

Offline Kirk Allen

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #17 on: June 18, 2009, 12:05:16 PM »
The bartering begins!
Integrity is doing the right thing when no one is watching!

Offline Carl Middleton

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #18 on: June 18, 2009, 01:20:35 PM »
$99.95?

Offline Kirk Allen

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #19 on: June 18, 2009, 05:07:30 PM »
$99.99 ;D
Integrity is doing the right thing when no one is watching!

Offline Carl Middleton

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #20 on: June 18, 2009, 06:08:03 PM »
$49.99 ;D

Offline Mr Mom

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #21 on: June 18, 2009, 07:42:58 PM »
i would bid but dont have a clue what it is used for.

Thanks Alot Mr Mom

Offline Frank Pender - AKA "Tail Gunner"

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #22 on: June 18, 2009, 10:08:04 PM »
Carl, that might pay for the paperwork.  Kirk and Mr. Mom, your bids could just about pay for the packaging inhancement needed for shipping. ;D

Offline Kirk Allen

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #23 on: June 19, 2009, 08:19:42 AM »
No packaging needed.  I will pick it up when I come out  :)
Integrity is doing the right thing when no one is watching!

Offline Mr Mom

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #24 on: June 19, 2009, 11:04:54 AM »
ok...... no packing and shipping i will pick it up when kirk brings it back with him for me.
Just kidding no money to spare.

Thanks Alot Mr Mom

Offline Frank Pender - AKA "Tail Gunner"

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #25 on: June 19, 2009, 01:30:04 PM »
Pull the pin roll it in.  Money talks, the other walks.  ;D

Offline Carl Middleton

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #26 on: June 19, 2009, 04:20:49 PM »
Now how ever ends up with it I will sell the paper wpok for $1,000,000   :o ;D

Offline Kirk Allen

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #27 on: June 19, 2009, 09:12:24 PM »
Hey, thats my line Frank :D
Integrity is doing the right thing when no one is watching!

Offline Carl Middleton

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #28 on: June 22, 2009, 07:29:42 PM »
Made pretty good progress on the kiln today Got the three sides framed and roof framed Going to paint everything black then put on roofing Taking pics as I go maybe I can post this weekend ;D

Offline Frank Pender - AKA "Tail Gunner"

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #29 on: June 23, 2009, 07:19:40 AM »
Sounds progressive to me, Carl.

I picked up another heat exchanger, similair to the present one, I use.  Good day yesterday. ;D ;D

Offline Kirk Allen

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #30 on: June 24, 2009, 10:02:45 AM »
Heat index of 105 right now :o 

Hot, Humid, and not a breeze one :(

Works stoppage until dark :'(
« Last Edit: June 28, 2009, 06:53:26 PM by Kirk Allen »
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Offline Carl Middleton

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #31 on: June 28, 2009, 02:42:45 PM »
Well I got the roof on the kiln today ;D now I need to insulate and finish the inside and build doors. Out side I used board and batten siding. Ordered 1 solar powered fan If it works as good as I have read I will add two more ;)

Offline Frank Pender - AKA "Tail Gunner"

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #32 on: June 28, 2009, 10:25:10 PM »
What did you use for sheeting under the boar and batting?  How about insolation?  What are you going to use?  If you can find some of that reflection material, similar to alum.foil, might be a good idea for on the inside, after you insolate.

Offline Carl Middleton

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #33 on: June 30, 2009, 07:23:42 PM »
No sheeting under the siding Frank I dont want to trap any moisture in the outside framework of the building if that makes any sence. I am using R13 insulation inside covered with 6 mil poly and then 1/2 inch plywood on inside walls Then paint every surface black to retain heat. Whats your thoughs on the reflective mat on the inside of the kiln do you think it would create more heat ? as opposed to the black surfaces retaining heat.

Offline Frank Pender - AKA "Tail Gunner"

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #34 on: July 01, 2009, 07:02:21 AM »
I have had some folks indicate that it might me a good idea, but I am not convinced that it would make much difference.  The idea o the plastic and painting all black sounds good to me.  You might consider using a high quality exterior paint for the inside, due to all of the moisture that you are creating with the drying and the acids in the moisture from the wood.

Offline Carl Middleton

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #35 on: July 06, 2009, 02:05:02 PM »
Insulated and hung the plywood inside the kiln today ;D But had to stop around 2:00 temps got up to 123 degrees :o inside 83 degrees out side I havent even built the doors or painted the wall yet ;D Going back out around 6:00 this evening to work a little more If it cools down some inside the kiln

Offline Frank Pender - AKA "Tail Gunner"

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #36 on: July 06, 2009, 09:41:42 PM »
Are you using pressure treated plywood, or simply exterior?

Offline Carl Middleton

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #37 on: July 15, 2009, 07:47:41 PM »
Using exterior plywood. Every thing is hung and painted black. I used a tar based paint that is used around here on fencing. It is for above grade or below grade use. Has insect repelent and is rot resistent. Hanging the fan wall tomorrow and instaling the one fan which seems to work quite well.I'll order the other two this week. Hope to have the doors on and kiln loaded and running mid week next week ;D

Offline Frank Pender - AKA "Tail Gunner"

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #38 on: July 20, 2009, 07:50:57 AM »
Up and running, this week?

Offline Carl Middleton

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #39 on: July 20, 2009, 03:47:49 PM »
Yep By friday ;D

Offline Carl Middleton

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #40 on: July 20, 2009, 03:55:45 PM »
Julian, what did you end up doing with the dehumider? are you still using it?

Offline Frank Pender - AKA "Tail Gunner"

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #41 on: July 21, 2009, 09:01:32 AM »
Check on the price of an Ebac 800 and see what they are running in price.  I might just sell you mine.  I believe it needs to have the freon stuff added and I will do that if you are interested.

Offline Carl Middleton

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #42 on: August 16, 2009, 04:58:03 PM »
It got so HOTT in the kiln yesterday it mailted the thermometer  :o >:( ;D

Offline Kirk Allen

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #43 on: August 16, 2009, 07:40:46 PM »
Thats HOT! 
Integrity is doing the right thing when no one is watching!

Offline Carl Middleton

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #44 on: August 31, 2009, 04:03:41 PM »
Unloaded the first load of lumber out of the new kiln today. 1600 bf sweet gum and oak all 4/4 and 5/4 thick   28 days 8%  ;D  Will reload tomorrow and deliver this load to customer ;)

Offline Kirk Allen

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #45 on: September 01, 2009, 09:17:08 PM »
Congradulations.  How did the gum turn out?  I never have had much luck with 4/4 gum.
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Offline Carl Middleton

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #46 on: September 02, 2009, 05:22:24 PM »
Not to bad. Air drying it stayed nice and strait I had 2x8 sheets of diamond plate steel with old dry bags of portland cement on top for weight The wood cupped a little in the kiln but I think 90% is still useable once planed :D

Offline Frank Pender - AKA "Tail Gunner"

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #47 on: September 03, 2009, 05:56:19 PM »
Sounds like as success, Carl.  Well done! ;D

Offline julian the woodnut

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #48 on: September 05, 2009, 06:04:10 PM »
Carl, yes I am still using the kiln a little. Work has been terribly slow and I have another kid on the way so I haven't spent any cash on getting another log milled, but I have dried some shorts that I have milled with my 14" bandsaw.

Offline Carl Middleton

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #49 on: September 07, 2009, 06:00:38 AM »
Julian, Have you considered drying lumber for other people for extra income. I know how much kids cost. :o You can place an ad on Craig's list for drying services. I would bet within a month you would get a responce. I charge .35 a board foot.  Not a lot of cash but every little bit helps ;D

Offline Frank Pender - AKA "Tail Gunner"

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #50 on: October 13, 2009, 10:03:58 PM »
Carl, my neighborhood finds that I charge $.60 a board foot for drying lumber.  I was at $.50 for ten years and finally the cost of electricity pushed me to the next level.  It is a good money maker, along with the sawing.

Offline Carl Middleton

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #51 on: January 18, 2010, 07:40:45 PM »
Another load out last week and another load in over the weekend 1000 bf walnut and cherry on one side  oak, hickory, american chestnut and some old growth chestnut from the old log cabin used for the slave quarters on the farm 1000 bf on that side too ;D should be ready by 1st of march if we dont get to much more snow temps in the kiln have averaged 50 to 70 deg above out side temps

Offline Frank Pender - AKA "Tail Gunner"

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #52 on: January 23, 2010, 10:33:32 PM »
Sounds like you are on your way to new found income, for sure.

Offline POC

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #53 on: January 25, 2010, 01:31:51 AM »
What did you use for the roof of your kiln?

I've thought about building one just as soon as I can.  I've read though that if you dry the lumber, then take it out it takes back on the humidity in the air, which I understand, then how would it be any different from lumber at the lumber yard?  Theirs sits outside.  So wouldn't my lumber be as good as theirs?

Offline Carl Middleton

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #54 on: January 26, 2010, 06:07:31 PM »
I used the coragated clear roofing from home depot for the roof I kiln dried some maple and oak about a year n a half ago and stored it in an outside shed open on three sides for the last 10 months I though I'd have to run it all through the kiln again before taking it to the new ware house It went from 6% to only 8%

Offline POC

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Re: Adding a dehumidifier to a solar kiln?
« Reply #55 on: January 26, 2010, 06:16:28 PM »
Thanks Carl,
That is what I was kinda figuring....