No doubt about it, restoration is hard work. Contractors are seeking advancements in drying strategies, and insurance companies are requiring better documentation to process payments. Our industry is quickly adapting to new technologies that make restoration more efficient. These technological advances take many forms, such as the sensor-driven operation of equipment, smart controls that calculate and share information, and new ways to use cell phones or tablets to acquire data for faster job documentation.
Optimizing performance
What’s available now and how can you use it? The most significant advancements in dehumidifier technology are sensors and systems that adapt drying performance to ambient conditions. For example, Dri-Eaz’ Extreme Dewpoint Technology™ (EDT) system connects a microprocessor to a proprietary controller with high-tech sensors that measure temperature and relative humidity through the dehumidifier’s inlets and outlets. This exclusive Dri-Eaz-engineered system adjusts the blower speed, allowing either more or less air dwell time across the coils to optimize water removal in all conditions. This is a huge benefit since conditions vary across regions, seasons, and even day-to-day conditions on the job. In low grain conditions, the results with EDT have been phenomenal – at least 40% higher low grain water removal than with competitive units. EDT is readily available - Dri-Eaz utilizes it in all of its latest iSeries dehumidifiers, including the LGR 7000 XLI, Revolution LGR and its newest LGR 6000Li.
Intelligent onboard systems also provide maintenance prompts to clean coils and alerts to check and change filters, helping to sustain peak performance and the longevity of dehumidifiers.
Time-saving mobile apps
Almost every restorer now uses cell phones and tablets on the job, and manufacturers are utilizing technology to make many tasks faster and easier. For example, scanning QR codes on new equipment labels can auto-populate job documentation and give instant access to specific product information. Users simply scan into their Next Gear apps (if a subscriber) or instantly link to a mobile-friendly webpage with equipment specifications, how-to videos and product manuals. This is especially helpful when questions arise out in the field about pint removal, amp usage, etc., when setting up equipment.
Another new mobile app helps with psychrometry. The free Dri-Eaz® PsychCheck psychrometric calculator app calculates grains per pound (GPP) based on temperature and RH data entered via the easy-to-use interface. An advanced section calculates vapor pressure and air dew point to material. The app can even switch between Fahrenheit and Celsius modes, and definitions are provided for all terms used.
Preventing on-the-job hassles
What about other less digital advances? With the new Dri-Eaz® LGR 6000Li, Legend Brands achieved significantly quieter operation – lower decibels AND a different frequency that’s less annoying to the human ear. This dramatically reduces the chance that the occupants will turn off a unit and disrupt drying progress.
Another smart design for the LGR 6000Li included factoring the average height of stairs into the wheel size and placement, allowing units to travel up and down steps with ease, reducing the stress on technicians’ backs and on customers’ stairs.
All of these advances help raise the level of professionalism in the industry by enhancing documentation, decision making, ease of use and drying effectiveness.
To learn more about any of the products spotlighted in this article visit www.LegendBrandsRestoration.com.
