We all know a humid day can make the heat even more uncomfortable, but what happens when that humid air is inside your home? Humidity levels can significantly impact your HVAC system’s performance and efficiency.
Your air conditioner cools your home’s indoor air but also removes moisture from the air. Too much moisture in the air makes it hard for your AC to keep up with demand and makes your indoor air feel damp and sticky.
Effects of Excess Indoor Humidity
Increased Energy Use
High humidity can make you feel like your home’s indoor air temperature is hotter than it is, tempting you to continually lower your thermostat.
This forces your HVAC system to work harder to cool the air, and the longer your air conditioner is on, the higher your utility bills.
Increased Wear & Tear
Prolonged exposure to high humidity can lead to corrosion and reduced lifespan of your HVAC system’s key components.
Poor Air Quality
High humidity levels contribute to mold and mildew growth in ducts and around the system, negatively affecting your home’s indoor air quality.
However, low humidity levels can also lead to dry air and related health issues.
Tips to Control Indoor Humidity
- Use your exhaust fans: Cooking, hot showers, and hot baths can all increase humidity in your home. Your home’s exhaust fans can help control it.
- Keep your windows closed: Sealing your home from the outside air can help your HVAC create the indoor air quality you demand.
- Check your home for plumbing leaks: Leaks can add to your moisture problem.
- Clean your outdoor HVAC unit: This can help your system work more efficiently. Turn off the unit at the breaker and use a garden hose to remove debris that might have settled in the unit’s coils and fins.
- Maximize HVAC efficiency: A maintenance plan can help prolong your system’s lifespan and ensure it works efficiently. Routinely change air filters to give your system the least resistance in delivering the best indoor air quality.
- Consider a whole-home dehumidifier: The most efficient way to manage moisture in your home is to use a whole-home dehumidifier. It pulls excess water from the air before it’s sent through the air ducts in your home.
Manage Humidity with HVAC Services From Canady’s
At Canady’s Heating • Air • Plumbing, our expert technicians know your HVAC system is vital to your comfort in your Coastal Empire or Lowcountry home. We can help ensure your home’s humidity levels aren’t making your HVAC system work harder.
Whether you have an issue that needs AC repair or want to schedule routine AC maintenance to ensure your system runs smoothly, you can count on the experts at Canady’s for peace of mind.
Call now to request AC services or air quality solutions in Savannah, GA, Beaufort, SC, or surrounding areas.