Q: Our dehumidification dry kiln has been working well for many years, but now we are faced with replacement of the compressor. The cost of freon is out of sight. It is apparently a gas that destroys the ozone layer, so the U.S. government has put a nice tax on it to discourage its use. What are our options for a less expensive kiln? We have two 30 MBF chambers now drying mostly 4/4 red oak green from the saw.

Jennifer Quinn Williams, Owner & President, St. Louis Closet Co.

Greg Stoner, President, MasterBrand Cabinets

Keith Atherholt, President, Lewis Lumber Products

Margaret Fisher, Director of Market Development, Lange Bros. Woodwork Co. Inc.

Steve Brewster, Director of Sustainability, Kimball Office

Jim Sherbert, CEO, Bush Industries

Boe Young, VP of Manufacturing, Impressions Marketing Group

Brian Walker, President & CEO, Herman Miller Inc.

Steve Kincaid, President, Kincaid Furniture