What Is Humidity?

Humidity is a major component of indoor comfort that measures the amount of water vapor present in a measure of air. When humidity is too high or too low, it can lead to health complications and serious loss of comfort for people living in the home. High humidity is a common problem during the summer when atmospheric humidity levels cause moisture to rise within the home. When humidity goes up inside the house during the summer, it can make a home feel warm and muggy or cool and clammy.  

One of the considerations that HVAC contractors consider when designing a cooling system is how the AC will regulate humidity. When an air conditioner runs, it helps draw down the moisture level in the air. However, due to several factors, many homes suffer from uncontrolled humidity, leading to discomfort and even higher energy bills. 

How Do Dehumidifiers Work? 

Dehumidifiers are the perfect answer for homes that are suffering from high humidity. The best way to access the benefits of a dehumidifier is with whole-home dehumidifiers instead of portable units. A whole-home dehumidifier works alongside AC equipment and removes humidity from the air without hassle or input from the owner. On the other hand, portable units are usually undersized and must be emptied several times daily to maintain lower humidity levels. 

Dehumidifiers work similarly to air conditioners. They use the same process or compression and expansion of refrigerants to create a cool surface that allows moisture to condense and drain away. Internal blowers move air across these coils anytime the home’s AC unit is running, so the air movement is maximized to treat all of the air in the home at once. 

When Does a Home Need a Dehumidifier?

The truth is not every home will benefit from a dehumidifier. Many homes have properly sized air conditioners that effectively remove moisture from the inside. However, dehumidifiers can be a game changer for homes with high humidity. Some of the signs that dehumidifiers can help in the home are: 

• Humidity levels about 60% as measured by a hygrometer
• High energy bills from having to set the thermostat lower to compensate for humidity
• Musty odors
• Mold problems
• Evidence of condensation 
• The air in the home feels warm and muggy or cool and clammy 

Benefits of Using a Dehumidifier 

Living in a home with high humidity can be frustrating. The air conditioner will run for hours, but the home still feels uncomfortable. This is largely because humans prefer between 40% and 60% humidity. With all that run time on the air conditioner, the power bills will reflect the usage. 

With dehumidifiers, homeowners can make their homes comfortable while also lowering their energy bills. By removing the humidity from the home, homeowners can raise the thermostat a few degrees to allow the AC to have a break. People in the home will feel more comfortable despite the warmer temperature because they aren’t constantly hot and sticky. 

About Atlantic Heating & Air Conditioning

Atlantic Heating & Air Conditioning has been offering industry-leading air quality service for decades. Their dedicated teams are available 24 hours a day for emergency HVAC service. Call today for AC repair or dehumidifier installation in Boston, MA. 

Contact Information:

Atlantic Heating & Air Conditioning

116 Cypress St
Brookline, MA 02445
United States

Jon Lorio
(617) 566-6990
https://www.atlantic-heat.com/