All types of weather can have an impact on an HVAC system or AC unit, and that can include things such as high humidity levels. If you live in an area that is humid for a majority of the year, then there are some upgrades that you might want to carry out to keep your home cool and comfortable without sacrificing your HVAC system.
The Basics of an HVAC System
Even though modern HVAC systems are relatively advanced, they operate on a few basic principles. When the temperature inside your home gets either too high or too low it trips your thermostat, and the unit is going to turn on until the home hits your desired temperature. If an HVAC system can’t keep a home at a consistent temperature, then it will need to stay on for long periods of time, and that can quickly and eventually result in unnecessary wear and tear that requires an air conditioning repair technician to service it.
Humidity Inside Your Home
If you live in a humid area or the humidity levels inside your home are particularly high, then it is going to feel much hotter than it really is. That means you will have to turn your thermostat down a few degrees so that you and your family can remain comfortable. While an oversized HVAC unit might seem like a good solution to that problem, a powerful air conditioner could continue to struggle because it can’t pull enough moisture out of the air.
Other Dangers of High Humidity Levels
Having an uncomfortable home is just one of the many issues that might occur if the humidity levels are high. In addition to making your home more unpleasant to be in, that extra moisture is also going to increase your risk of mold growth. While every species of mold is slightly different, the spores tend to grow in areas where the relative humidity is above 60 percent.
Investing in a Dehumidifier
In addition to having your HVAC system regularly serviced by a technician, you should also consider investing in a dehumidifier if you live in a humid area. Those devices can be attached directly to an existing HVAC system, and they are designed to pull moisture from the air so that the inside of a home remains comfortable. Installing a whole-house dehumidifier is going to improve your comfort and increase the lifespan of your AC unit.
High humidity levels could end up costing you quite a bit of money if you don’t take action right away. Luckily, keeping the relative humidity inside your home at a reasonable level should be a simple task with a high-quality dehumidifier.