Santa Fe Dehumidifiers and
Ultra-Aire Dehumidifiers
The Critical Factor for Healthy Indoor Air Quality
Dust mites and mold are the two most common allergens present in higher humidity climates.
Dust mites live in upholstered furniture, carpets and mattresses. They feed on shed human and animal skin scale. In order to stay hydrated, dust mites must absorb th eir moisture needs from the air. If the relative humidity
is below 50 percent, dust mites dessicate (dry out). Their appetites increase as the relative humidity climbs. This is significant because their fecal material
is the source of the dominant dust mite allergen. Ninety percent of the population that experience any allergy-based sensitivities react to the dust mite allergen.
Once produced, the allergens settle into fabrics and carpet. Individuals come into contact with the allergen after some activity like vacuuming, dusting, or making beds has "stirred-up" the area and caused
the allergen to become airborne. Due to its size and shape, the allergen remains airborne for only a short period of time. For this reason, air duct cleaning and
air filtration devices are ineffective methods of combating the dust mite allergen. According to studies conducted at Wright State University by Dr. Larry Arlien, dust mite
infestations will be eliminated if the relative humidity is consistently maintained below 50 percent.
Molds are a fungi. They only require high humidity (70 percent or higher) and an organic-based material on which to feed. It is no surprise that they are plentiful in humid climates. Cooler surfaces create a perfect breeding area for mold because the
relative humitity at their surface will be near 100%. The surface may even be wet with condensation.
Individuals may react to the mold's spores or to mycotoxins (a toxin) released by the mold. Unlike the dust mite allergen, mold spores remain airborne for significant periods of time and are always present
, to some degree, in outdoor air. Most mold spores measure 5 to 10 microns in size and can be filtered out of the air with the proper efficiency filter media. Mold growth can be eliminated in the home
through humidity control that maintains reduced relative humidity levels and prevents cooler surfaces from becoming damp.
Therma-Stor Products created the Santa Fe & Santa Fe Rx ultra efficient dehumidifiers and the Ultra-Aire APD air purifying dehumidifiers to have
the capacity to maintain relative humidities below the recommended maximum of 50 percent level, even in structures with fresh air ventilation. These units were developed to provide commercial-grade capacities
while drawing less electricity than most residential 40-pint dehumidifiers.
The best way to combat the problem of humidity migrating through the roof, walls, and floor is to pressurize the building with dehumidified air. This strategy involves bringing a
measured amout of outdoor air into the structure and dehumidifying it before it enters the living area. An equal amount of drier indoor air will escape from the structure to
equalize the pressure. This ventilation strategy, provided by the Ultra-Aire APD system, prevents humid outdoor air from infiltrating the structure and offers the
ventilation recommended by health experts.
The Santa Fe is a high capacity, energy efficient dehumidifier. The Santa Fe features an Energy Star® label, and removes more water per unit
of electricity than any other qualified dehumidifier. It can operate as a "stand alone" dehumidifier; simply plug it in, route the condensate hose to a drain, and set the
dehumidistat. It is ideal for basement and crawlspace applications since it operates effectively in temperatures as low as 53° F. Normally, a Santa Fe unit will maintain
relative humidity levels below 50% in areas up to 3,000 square feet.
An option duct kit allows the Santa Fe to be located in a mechanical room and deliver the dried air to other areas via air ducts. Other available options include a "silencer"
kit, a remote dehumidistat and a condensate pump kit.
 The Santa Fe Rx operates much more quietly than the Santa Fe, making it an ideal choice for offices,
residences, schools and libraries. The smooth white cabinet creates a versitile dehumidifier that is suitable with any decor. The internal condensate pump and 20
feet of drain hose add extra convenience, allowing you to direct water outside or to a suitable sink or drain. Extremely efficient, the Santa Fe Rx removes more pints
of water per kilowatt of electricity than most other residential dehumidifiers. The Santa Fe Rx, if desired, provides a secondary filter housing which can be
connected to the back. This housing can hold your choice of HEPA, carbon plus pleated media, or high efficient (95%) filters, all of which remove dust and other airborne allergens.
The Ultra-Aire APD (air purifying dehumidifier) offers the ultimate in indoor air quality. It is a single unit that can provide fresh air ventilation, air filtration, and whole-house
dehumidification. The Ultra-Aire APD is available in a vertical configuration for structures up to 2,500 square feet, and a horizontal version for structurs up to 3,500
square feet. In larger structures, multiple units can be employed. Normally installed adjacent to the air conditioner, the Ultra-Aire is designed to utilize existing ductwork to
distribute the fresh, filtered and dehumidified air throughout the house. The Ultra-Aire also provides the benefits of pressurizing the home with dry air when the fresh air
ventilation feature is selected. The Ultra-Aire offers a variety of air filtration and  ventilation control options. Unique Indoor Comfort can easily install an Ultra-Aire unit in
your home.
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