Humidity refers to the amount of water vapor present in the air. High humidity is a major concern for many homeowners, especially in Atlanta, where AC installation is often sought after. Such increased moisture levels can lead to many problems, including mildew, mold, musty odors, condensation on windows, peeling paint, and even water stains.
These issues are clear indicators of high indoor humidity. With this in mind, many wonder: Can AC systems, particularly those with air conditioning and humidity control features, effectively reduce indoor humidity?
Air Conditioning and Humidity Control
The ideal indoor humidity is in the range of 30–50%. This range is most challenging to maintain during summer when temperatures and humidity spike. There are many ways of testing your indoor humidity that we have thoroughly discussed on our website.
If your humidity reading falls outside the recommended range, you may consider regulating the amount of water vapor using the AC system. Running your AC for an hour can lower the humidity levels for a more comfortable and relaxing home.
How Does Air Conditioning Affect Indoor Humidity?
Air conditioners use refrigerant in an evaporator coil to eliminate heat and humidity. To attain this, indoor air is channeled through ducts, passing over an evaporator coil containing a refrigerant.
The evaporator coil captures the moisture while the refrigerant soaks up the heat. The condensation then falls into a condensate pan and drains out of the system. This explains the water drops expelled from AC systems. The cool, dehumidified air then blows back into the house.
Managing Indoor Humidity With AC
A properly functioning AC system will cool and dehumidify your indoor space during different seasons. This is why you should consider installing an AC system in your home. To dehumidify your home using the AC in summer, set your AC to “cooling mode” to both cool your home and lower humidity. When temperatures are relatively low in spring and autumn, you should use your AC’s dry mode and slow fan speed to dehumidify your home without cooling it. In addition, ensure that your AC system’s thermostat is in the “auto” position instead of the “on” position. This will ensure that the AC only runs the fan when necessary to cool your room to your preset temperature.
If your indoors still feels damp with the AC on, you probably have a maintenance issue. Your AC filter is probably clogged and trapping moisture in the ducts. This accumulation of moisture can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria, which can cause airborne diseases.
Contact Your Local HVAC Experts
For enhanced performance and longevity of your AC system, we advise checking your filter at least once every two months and replacing it as needed. If you’re considering AC installation in Atlanta or need an expert’s touch, contact Moncrief Heating & Air Conditioning. Our skilled technicians will thoroughly assess your system, identifying potential issues that could compromise its efficiency. Proactive measures like this can prevent costly repairs down the line, saving you significantly in the long term. Don’t wait—contact us today to ensure your home stays comfortable all year round.
