Does Your Air Conditioner Lower Humidity?
Yes, your air conditioner does lower the humidity in your home. That’s the simple answer. There’s a bit more that goes into it, and in this article, we’ll tell you more about what humidity is, and how to stop it from making you uncomfortable in the summer!
I’ve been working with air conditioning systems for homes in the Philadelphia suburbs for over 20 years. I know how humid this area can get in the summer, and how it can become more uncomfortable than the heat at times. Luckily, as technology advances, there are better and easier ways to cool your home, and lower the humidity.
If you are looking for some help with your air conditioning, give John Cipollone Inc. a call at (610) 446-7877, or contact us online. One of our comfort specialists will be able to answer any questions you may have, and come take a look at your cooling system.
What Is Humidity?
Humidity is the amount of moisture in the air. During the summer, this usually rises, making for a very humid environment. This is what leads you to feel sticky, hot, muggy, etc. During the winter, it’s the opposite, and there’s a lack of humidity in the air. This is why your skin dries out more easily and you’re more likely to have breathing issues and catch a cold.
Ideally, you want the humidity level to be anywhere between 30-50%. This is going to make your home feel comfortable and eliminate that muggy, sticky feeling the humidity brings.
Problems With High Humidity
High levels of humidity bring issues with your comfort, and even with your home. Some of the biggest issues presented by high humidity are:
- Hot, Uncomfortable Feeling
- Poor Air Quality
- Warped Furniture, Instruments, Wood
- Higher Energy Bills
- Harder Job For Cooling System
Using The Air Conditioner To Lower Humidity
As we’ve mentioned already, your air conditioner will lower the humidity in your home. As the air passes through your cooling system, the hot air from your home is cooled, and the condensation produced is drained through a valve or a tube. This process reduces the humidity, but it also works the air conditioner a bit harder.
In some instances, the humidity can be too much for your AC. Maybe your system is older, hasn’t been tuned up in a while, or it’s just unusually humid. In our area of Pennsylvania, we can experience some VERY humid days. If this is the case, your air conditioner may struggle. Not only will it be difficult to remove enough moisture from the air, but the air with more moisture retains heat. This makes the environment less comfortable and runs up your energy bills.
Other Ways To Lower Humidity
When it’s very humid, cranking the AC may not always be the best, or most economical solution. There are a few other ways to regulate your humidity that will make your space more comfortable and ease the job on your cooling system.
Using Exhaust Fans
If your bathroom has exhaust fans, use them during showers and when you are running water. The added water vapor from the shower creates added humidity, but if you are piping it out of your home, it should help the humidity stay down.
Installing A Dehumidifier
A dehumidifier removes humidity from the air. These systems plug right into the ductwork, and keep the air in your home measured and regulated to provide precise humidity. This is the best solution for keeping the humidity down. These systems can measure humidity and make sure your home is not overly humid. This takes a big burden off your air conditioner and makes it much easier to cool your home.
Controlling The Humidity In Your Home
If you are having issues with the humidity and comfort in your home, give John Cipollone Inc. a call at (610) 446-7877, or contact us online! Our team would be happy to take a look at your home, and make sure it’s as comfortable as it should be all year long!
