Humidity is an important factor to consider regarding air conditioning systems. It can affect the performance, efficiency and comfort of your system and its lifespan.
In this article, we’ll discuss how humidity affects your air conditioning system and how you can maintain a comfortable indoor environment.
What is Humidity?
Humidity is the amount of moisture in the air. It’s measured in terms of relative humidity (RH), which is the ratio of the amount of water vapor in the air compared to the amount of water vapor that can be held in the air at a given temperature. In other words, if the air is saturated with water vapor, it has 100% relative humidity.
Signs of Indoor Humidity
High levels of indoor humidity can be identified by a few signs, such as:
- Musty odors
- Condensation on windows and walls
- Stuffy air
- Mold or mildew growth on surfaces
- Increased susceptibility to allergies and other respiratory issues
What impact does high humidity have on an AC system?
High humidity levels can cause an AC system to run longer and work harder to cool the air, resulting in higher energy costs.
Additionally, high humidity in the air can cause condensation on the coils of the AC unit, which can lead to a buildup of dirt and dust. This can reduce the efficiency of the system and lead to frequent repairs.
How to Address Humidity In Your Home
- Install a Dehumidifier: Dehumidifiers help reduce the humidity levels in your home by removing the moisture in the air.
- Use Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans help circulate the air in your home and can help reduce humidity levels.
- Open Windows: Opening windows can help reduce the humidity levels in your home by allowing for air exchange with the outside air.
- Avoid Moisture-Producing Activities: Activities such as boiling water, taking hot showers, and running dishwashers can all contribute to the humidity levels in your home. Try to avoid these activities when possible.
- Use an Air Purifier: Air purifiers can help reduce the humidity levels in your home by filtering out the airborne particles that can cause an increase in humidity.
The Importance of Regular AC Maintenance
Regular air conditioning maintenance is essential for keeping your home’s humidity levels in check. During maintenance visits, a technician will inspect your system and identify any potential issues that could be causing an increase in humidity.
They will also check the refrigerant levels, clean the coils, and make any necessary repairs. Regular maintenance will help ensure your system is running at peak efficiency, which will help keep your home comfortable and healthy.
The Bottomline
Humidity has a significant influence on our air conditioning systems. High humidity can cause the AC to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, leading to higher energy bills.
Additionally, high humidity levels can increase the growth of mold and dust mites, which can lead to health problems. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the humidity in your home by using dehumidifiers, properly sealing windows and doors, and using exhaust fans.
Taking these measures can help reduce humidity levels, increase the efficiency of your air conditioning system, and protect your health.
Always On Green Home is a reputable air conditioning contractor in Brooklyn, NY. We specialize in mini split systems. Get in touch with us.