Gun dehumidifier question

[poppo]

This isn't a question about what is the best dehumidifier, but I was curious as to just how the Goldenrod unit actually removes the moisture. I can see the silica based units doing it by absorbing the moisture, but in a closed area like a safe, how can a heated rod remove moisture? The moisture has to go somewhere.

[Keith B]

This isn't a question about what is the best dehumidifier, but I was curious as to just how the Goldenrod unit actually removes the moisture. I can see the silica based units doing it by absorbing the moisture, but in a closed area like a safe, how can a heated rod remove moisture? The moisture has to go somewhere.

It is basic physics. When the air is heated it expands. There is no more moisture in the air than before, but because the air has expanded, the relative humidity is lowered. By keeping the temperature constant in the safe, condensation is not allowed to form, thus preventing rusting.

[poppo]

So while it may prevent rust, it does not actually remove any moisture, correct? I read another thread here where someone said it was recommended to use both types. I guess that would make the most sense.

[Keith B]

So while it may prevent rust, it does not actually remove any moisture, correct? I read another thread here where someone said it was recommended to use both types. I guess that would make the most sense.

It actually doesn't remove moisture, but it forces the colder air out of the safe. The moisture will go out with the cooler air as the heated air will not hold as much moisture. Not sure it would buy you a lot to use both if they were working properly, but a desiccant type dehumidifier might act as a backup if the Goldenrod failed or power was lost.