Silica Gel packs questions

Hi,

Just a few simple questions. How long do you heat a silica gel pack in the microwave to dry it out?

Also, can you use any gel pack (like the ones found in shoe boxes), or do they make special ones for housings? Thanks.

Brian H.

The best silica packs to use are "indicating" packs. Indicating silica turns from blue to pink when saturated. You can buy it loose and make your own small packs. Directions say "microwave at 20 second intervals or 5 to 10 minutes on defrost until blue again" or "standard oven at 275 degrees F for 3 to 4 hours". Check out a local arts and crafts store (Michaels) or you can get it cheap online at http://preservesmart.com/products.htm#Sili...caGelDesiccants