REIC Specialty Controls Humidity In Agricultural Storage Facilities Across The Midwest

Illinois – Facing persistently high humidity levels in several facilities, the plant managers of a national agricultural storage company convened to address the issue. Their primary goal was to ensure the long-term storage of agricultural products. However, their data revealed that elevated humidity levels were compromising the viability of their products—and their revenue.

Humidity Reduces Product Lifespan

Typically, the stored products have a lifespan of over five years. However, the products were degrading so quickly due to the current humidity levels that they would barely last three years. Despite having commercial-grade HVAC systems and closely monitoring conditions, their data and computer modelling showed they needed additional support.

Effective Humidity Control Solutions

Fortunately, a former food and beverage client of REIC Specialty recommended their services to one of the facility managers. Following a brief consultation, REIC Specialty delivered a 5,000 CFM dehumidifier to the site. Once installed, dry air began circulating through a portion of the facility. Within 24 hours, the humidity dropped significantly, and data showed that conditions were now within the required parameters for long-term product viability. The test facility proved successful, and REIC Specialty passed with flying colors.

Customized Dehumidifiers Across Multiple Facilities

Within a week, eight 5,000 CFM desiccant dehumidifiers were installed across four agricultural storage facilities in Illinois and the Midwest. Although the facilities were similarly sized, they varied in their fuel availability. REIC Specialty’s versatile range of rental dehumidifiers proved crucial. Each unit was powered using the most suitable energy source—electricity, natural gas, or LP. Regardless of the fuel type, the dehumidifiers delivered sufficient air changes and a steady volume of dry air, reducing humidity to acceptable levels without risking product damage from over-drying.

Successful Results

The agricultural company was thrilled with the results. The rental dehumidifiers remained on-site throughout the season, providing consistent performance. While the company is now evaluating permanent solutions for some locations, REIC Specialty has already been asked to prepare temporary dehumidifiers for a return to select facilities next season.