With our subtropical climate here in Georgia, humidity levels tend to stay high all year long. Since cooler winter air doesn’t hold as much moisture, humidity becomes more problematic once spring arrives and the outdoor temperature starts to rise. This makes spring the ideal time to decide if you should have a dehumidifier installed.

Reasons Why You May Need a Dehumidifier

You might think that because your air conditioner draws out moisture as it cools the air, it should be able to adequately dehumidify your home. The truth is, coping with high humidity can increase your HVAC equipment’s workload and energy consumption. It can also decrease its cooling capabilities, and leave your home feeling uncomfortably warm and sticky.

If your home’s HVAC isn’t removing enough moisture from the air, a host of other problems can develop, including:

• Mold and mildew growth
• Flourishing dust mite populations
• Worsening symptoms for anyone with allergies, asthma and lung conditions
• Damage to wood furniture, floors and trim
• Unpleasant musty odors
• Ruined carpeting

Basics of How Dehumidifiers Work

If your air conditioner or heat pump is getting overwhelmed coping with high humidity, having a dehumidifier installed on your HVAC system can help. Here’s how it works:

• You set your desired humidity level on the centrally-located humidistat, and the unit cycles on and off automatically as needed.
• As air passes through the HVAC system, it’s sent across the dehumidifier’s refrigerant-filled cooling coil, which draws out moisture.
• As moisture is extracted, it gets sent outdoors through the condensate drain.
• The newly-dry air gets distributed through your existing duct system.

Benefits of Installing a Dehumidifier

Keeping humidity in check can make your home more comfortable, give you better air quality, and help prevent damage to your interior finishes, furniture and belongings. It will reduce your HVAC equipment’s energy consumption and help prolong its useful lifespan. And, because dry air feels cooler than humid air, you can save more energy by raising your normal thermostat setting several degrees.

To learn if installing a dehumidifier can help the indoor air in your Peachtree City home, contact us at Powers Heating & Air.