In high-humidity weather, what is the recommendation regarding the use of an economizer in drying water-damaged buildings?

In high-humidity weather, the recommendation is to temporarily bypass or shut down the economizer. An economizer typically allows for the mixing of incoming outdoor air with the indoor air to help with cooling and ventilation. However, when outdoor humidity levels are high, introducing this air into a structure can exacerbate moisture issues and slow the drying process.

High humidity can cause the moisture from the outside air to condense within the building, leading to increased relative humidity in the space being dried, which is counterproductive to the drying efforts. By bypassing or shutting down the economizer, you can maintain better control over the indoor environment, ensuring that the humidity levels do not rise further and that the dehumidification process can operate more effectively.

Adjusting the settings or increasing airflow through the economizer during high humidity can also lead to similar issues, as it may inadvertently allow more humid air into the space. Maintaining a controlled, dry environment is essential in successful water damage restoration.