Is Steam The Best Humidity? How Smart Fog Saves More Than $400,000 Compared To Steam
When selecting a humidification system for your facility, it’s crucial to consider the impact on operational costs, energy efficiency, and maintenance. To shed light on this, let’s compare Smart Fog technology with traditional steam humidification, using a standard commercial and industrial facility as a reference.
Humidity control can account for 25% to 40% of a facility’s total energy consumption, which translates to a significant number of BTUs used daily. With such high stakes, the efficiency difference between Smart Fog and steam humidification can lead to substantial long-term savings.
Immediate Savings
Energy Costs:
- Steam Humidification: According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the cost of natural gas can vary, but a common average for industrial use is around $11.642 per MMBtu. EIA – Natural Gas Prices
- Smart Fog: The average industrial electricity rate in the U.S. is about $0.122 per kWh. U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) – Electricity
Long-Term Savings
Water Costs:
- Steam Humidification: The water consumption for steam humidification systems and their associated costs can be found in resources like the International Association for the Properties of Water and Steam (IAPWS). IAPWS – Water Consumption
- Smart Fog: Water usage and costs for Smart Fog systems are detailed in product literature and customer case studies provided by the manufacturer. Smart Fog – Product Details
Maintenance Costs:
- Steam Humidification: Maintenance costs and requirements for steam humidifiers are discussed in detail by industry sources such as the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). ASHRAE – Maintenance of Steam Humidifiers
- Smart Fog: Information about the maintenance costs and procedures for Smart Fog systems can be sourced from Smart Fog’s own technical documentation. Smart Fog – Maintenance
Installation Costs:
- Steam Humidification: Installation costs for steam humidifiers can be found in industry reports and manufacturer specifications. U.S. Department of Energy – Steam Systems
- Smart Fog: Installation costs for Smart Fog systems are outlined in product specifications and case studies. Smart Fog – Installation Costs
Total Yearly Operating Costs
Steam Humidification:
- Energy, Water, Maintenance, Specialized Labor Costs: Detailed breakdowns of operating costs can be found in reports and case studies from the International Energy Agency (IEA) and industry-specific publications. International Energy Agency – Humidification Systems
Smart Fog:
- Energy, Water, Maintenance, Non-Specialized Labor Costs: Comprehensive cost breakdowns for Smart Fog systems are available through Smart Fog’s case studies and product information. Smart Fog – Cost Analysis
Total Lifetime Costs
Steam Humidification:
- Total Operating Costs and Installation Costs: The long-term cost analysis for steam humidification can be derived from industry reports and case studies. Energy Star – Industrial Steam Systems
Smart Fog:
- Total Operating Costs and Installation Costs: Total cost data for Smart Fog systems over a 15-year period is available from the manufacturer’s financial analysis reports. Smart Fog – Financial Benefits
Conclusion
Smart Fog offers a more cost-effective solution compared to traditional steam humidification. Over 15 years, it saves approximately $439,969.55, showcasing its superior efficiency and lower costs in terms of energy, maintenance, water usage, and labor. By choosing Smart Fog, you not only achieve optimal humidity control but also realize significant financial benefits.
