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Adding whole home dehumidifier - Is this a DIY project?

1,655 Views | 5 Replies | Last: 1 yr ago by 62strat
TikkaShooter
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Getting quotes from HVAC companies, which are of course busy as heck right now, and the prices are pretty in line. On average, $3500 to install a 60-70 pint dehum in the attic.

Seems like the machines run about $1200-1500, then another $2K in labor for the 1 day job.

Has anyone DIY'd this project before? I'm handy enough, but I also dont want to screw up my HVAC. I've watched a few YT videos, but thought I'd come here for some advice from anyone who's tackled this themselves.

Looking at adding one, possible 2 dehum units in the attic, inline with my air handlers. If it matters, both are Bosch 4 ton air handler units.
sklipes
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Been looking at doing this too for my 1920's home where i am currently using 3 in-room systems & humidity is still hits 60+% on high humid days.

If you have power outlets in the attic it seems fairly simple DIY just making sure you get fresh air & return air running thru the system. Again, all knowledge from YT but it seems 1 unit is enough depending on sq ft as the house will normalize across 1st & 2nd floors.
P.H. Dexippus
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AG
Short answer: yes.

Long answer: depends on a lot of factors.
  • What is access like not just for the egress into the attic, but for mounting/hanging the unit? For ducting into existing supply air plenum? For ducting into return air plenum? For going through the roof for a fresh air intake (optional)? Tying into condensate line? Electrical supply? Wiring a humidistat/thermostat?
  • How handy are you in the foregoing trades?
  • Can you rig a hoist or wench? (some units are too heavy to get up your standard attic stairway with one or two regular guys pushing.

All that said, I would never take this project on in the summer in an unairconditioned attic. You are looking at a minimum 20 manhours in the attic to DIY.
vmiaptetr
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AG
I have one. I didn't do it myself, but I believe I could have.
500,000ags
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AG
Don't want to hi-jack, but has anyone added one to a crawl space before?
62strat
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AG
Quote:


then another $2K in labor for the 1 day job.



I remind people all the time; when it comes to MEP (or any skilled) trades, you aren't paying for their time, you are paying for their knowledge.
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