for those who don't like dehumidifiers - silica gel?

[chinita]

for those who don\'t like dehumidifiers - silica gel?

Been following a number of threads on the ups and downsides of dehumidifiers.

Perhaps a silly question but what about using silica gel in big packages? Will this absorb moisture on an unattended wooden boat afloat over the winter? It is clearly passive and will not dry out wood. Would the quantities required be unrealistic?

The opinions of the panel would be greatly appreciated.

 

[sarabande]

Re: for those who don\'t like dehumidifiers - silica gel?

Silaca gel is best used in enclosed small spaces like electronics packets. To use in an open environment such as a boat, you would have to spread kilos of the stuff around, and then dry it, store it, spread it out again...

Depending on the Rel Humidty, and the surface area exposed, it could reach full absorbence capacity in a day.

It absorbs 20 - 25% of water vapour by weight at 40% RH, and can be re-generated almost indefinitely at temps between 130° and 150°C. Bulk costs are approx 5 Euros for 1kg.

 

[FullCircle]

Re: for those who don\'t like dehumidifiers - silica gel?

We used the disposable packs, which have reusable containers. They worked well, and are about a fiver for 2 replacement packs. We used 1 in each of the aft and forecabinns, and it cut down condensation a lot. Quite expensive to keep doing it that way though.
Do you want a 12v Dehumidifier, I have one from Homebase I dont need any more, but it is quite a small capacity water container, and not terrifically efficient.

 

[PhilipH]

Re: for those who don\'t like dehumidifiers - silica gel?

Hurry on down to Lidl - just bought 450g packs to-day at £4.49 for container and three refills. I have also bought a re-usable type from Compass24. I will find out how they all work this winter, so ask me again in April.

 

[chinita]

Re: for those who don\'t like dehumidifiers - silica gel?

Thanks everybody. In typical fashion I thought of the question as I was driving away from B&Q with my new £75 dehumidifier!!

I have to say that I am very pleased with it so far. In conjunction with a 120 watt tube heater the old girl is feeling very toasty and sweet. I do not, however, intend running either non stop but only as required.

 

[Gordonmc]

Re: for those who don\'t like dehumidifiers - silica gel?

Silica gel is find for small enclosed spaces. I chuck in a few sachets behind the fusebox drop-down door and in any boxes with kit in. Also useful to drop into plastic bags containing spare clothes. Otherwise a waste of time... and so is the rechargable chemical dehumidifiers. I left one in the cabin and came back the following weekend to find a bowl of water.
Friends with a cat on board say the litter tray does a good job in absorbing humidity.

 

[Conachair]

Re: for those who don\'t like dehumidifiers - silica gel?

Where's a good plae to buy silica gel from?