This glossary includes more than 300 solar terms, as well as hundreds of additional sustainable design and construction terms.
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z AllDefinition: A desiccant energy recovery wheel is part of an HVAC system that uses temperature differences (enthalpy) to achieve greater energy efficiency. It utilizes energy that would otherwise be exhausted to pre-treat temperature and moisture in incoming outside air with minimal energy use and without mechanical refrigeration.
The enthalpy exchange is accomplished through the use of desiccants. Desiccants transfer moisture through the process of adsorption which is predominately driven by the difference in the partial pressure of vapor within the opposing air-streams. Typical desiccants consist of silica gel, and molecular sieves.