Why Humidity Management Is a Critical Part of Mechanical Contracting
Mechanical contractors are responsible for designing, installing, and maintaining the systems that regulate building environments—HVAC, piping, ductwork, and more. But what happens when the environment itself becomes the obstacle?
As temperatures rise in spring and summer, so does ambient humidity. This seasonal challenge can wreak havoc on indoor job sites, equipment, and material integrity. Managing moisture isn’t just a comfort issue for mechanical contractors—it’s an operational necessity.
Whether commissioning a new HVAC system, retrofitting a facility, or maintaining critical infrastructure, temporary dehumidification helps you protect your work, meet timelines, and maintain system performance.
What Does Excess Humidity Impact on a Job Site?
- System Commissioning and Equipment Startup
Many HVAC systems—especially chilled water or VRF systems—require dry, controlled environments during startup. High moisture levels can skew readings, damage controls, and even cause premature corrosion of system components.
- Ductwork and Insulation Integrity
When installing duct systems, excessive moisture in the air can lead to condensation inside the ducts. This compromises insulation and may promote mold growth, especially in unconditioned spaces like attics or crawlspaces.
- Material and Adhesive Failures
Certain adhesives, sealants, and coatings used in mechanical system installations require strict temperature and humidity ranges to cure properly. Uncontrolled humidity can delay curing times or cause adhesion failures, forcing costly rework.
- Labor Productivity
High humidity can slow work crews, increase fatigue, and make indoor environments uncomfortable or unsafe. By stabilizing conditions with dehumidifiers and air movers, mechanical contractors can help maintain steady productivity.
When to Use Temporary Dehumidification
Moisture challenges can arise year-round, but certain scenarios demand proactive control. Temporary dehumidification is especially valuable during:
- System Commissioning in Hot, Humid Months
- New Construction in High-Humidity Regions
- Renovations Without Active HVAC
- Sensitive Environments (e.g., Data Centers, Labs)
- Weather- or Supply-Related Delays
Under these conditions, REIC Specialty Rentals provides reliable, scalable dehumidification solutions, serving as a critical bridge until permanent systems are operational or environmental conditions stabilize.
How Temporary Dehumidification Works
REIC offers two primary types of commercial-grade dehumidifiers for temporary use:
Refrigerant Dehumidifiers
These systems cool the air to condense moisture, which is then collected and drained away. They are ideal for moderate humidity control in warm environments and are often used for job site drying or moisture stabilization in medium to large spaces.
Desiccant Dehumidifiers
Desiccant systems use chemical absorbents to extract moisture from the air, even at low temperatures or low humidity levels. These are best for high-performance moisture control, such as commissioning HVAC in hospitals, data centers, or during winter projects where refrigerant units are less effective.
REIC also integrates air movers, ventilation fans, and spot cooling equipment to create a fully engineered solution tailored to the site.
Scenario: Managing Humidity During a Hospital HVAC Retrofit
During a summer HVAC upgrade at a hospital in the humid South, interior humidity rose above 70% before the new system was online—posing risks to sensitive equipment and patient comfort.
To restore control, desiccant dehumidifiers were deployed to remove excess moisture, air handlers were used to maintain consistent airflow, and remote humidity sensors enabled real-time monitoring. Within 24 hours, relative humidity (RH) levels stabilized at 50%, allowing commissioning to proceed smoothly. The hospital remained fully operational throughout the process.
How REIC Specialty Rentals Supports Mechanical Contractors
Our Specialty Rentals Division was created with field realities in mind. We understand that timelines, complexity, and job site unpredictability are part of your everyday. That’s why we offer:
Engineering Support
We assess your site, specs, and project requirements to provide the right-sized system—no guesswork required.
Fast Deployment
With 19 locations across 12 U.S. states and 3 Canadian provinces, our fleet is ready to move when and where you need it.
Remote Monitoring and Control
We offer systems with real-time humidity and temperature monitoring, allowing you to focus on your work while we handle the environment.
24/7 Availability
When you call REIC, you talk to professionals with technical expertise—anytime, day or night.
Coordination with GC and Other Trades
We work hand-in-hand with other subcontractors to ensure our equipment supports—not hinders—site workflows and safety.
Benefits to Your Bottom Line
Temporary dehumidification is an investment that pays off:
- Avoid rework or failed commissioning
- Keep materials within spec
- Support HVAC accuracy and performance
- Prevent mold or moisture-related callbacks
- Protect your team’s reputation and the client’s satisfaction
With REIC as your partner, you are not just renting equipment—you are ensuring a smoother, drier, and more efficient project closeout.
Don’t Let Humidity Hijack Your Next Project
Seasonal humidity will not disappear, but with the right equipment and support, its impact on your job site can be reduced.
At REIC Specialty Rentals, we are here to help you take control of moisture, protect your installs, and stay ahead of schedule.
Contact us today to speak with our temporary dehumidification experts and get a site-specific recommendation tailored to your next project.
