Why Is Your Air Conditioner Causing an Increase in Humidity?
Nothing beats sitting in your recliner with the air conditioner running in the background on a hot, muggy summer evening. But there's a catch. Yes, the temperature inside your home is slightly lower than outside. On the other hand, the air in your home feels just as sticky as the 80% humidity outside. Even if your air conditioner is working hard to keep your home cool, you may notice that the indoor humidity is rising. Does this sound like your house? If this is the case, AC humidity may be the source of the problem.
What Is the Best Indoor Humidity?
Although humidity levels will vary depending on personal preferences, your home's relative humidity is recommended to remain below 50% when outdoor temperatures exceed 50°F. Anything above 50% causes issues for you, your family, and your home. Dust mites and mold spores thrive in high-humidity environments, potentially causing family health issues. High humidity can also cause moisture to collect on windows, doors, and even your wood furniture. It can cause severe damage over time.
What Is Causing the Humidity to Keep Rising?
One of the most common causes of increased humidity in your home is the installation of an air conditioner. Air conditioners are intended to remove moisture from the air, but if not properly installed, they can actually add moisture to the atmosphere.
Air conditioners that are too small for their rooms will run continuously, never getting a chance to remove all the moisture from the air. ACs that are too large will cycle on and off so frequently that they will not have enough time to remove all of the moisture from the air. That is why it is critical to have a professional AC installation company come out and assess your AC needs before installing your AC.
They will be able to determine the proper size of the AC for your home and ensure that it is properly installed so that it does not cause higher humidity levels. Other factors to consider when the humidity in your home rises:
- The air conditioner filter must be replaced. A clogged filter can restrict airflow and force the unit to work harder than necessary, increasing humidity levels. Check and replace your filter regularly.
- The air conditioner isn't draining correctly. A small pan collects water as the window air conditioner removes moisture from the air. The water is then drained using a hose or tube. If this system becomes clogged, water will back into the unit, causing it to work inefficiently, resulting in higher humidity levels.
- Your ductwork is leaking. If your ductwork has cracks or holes, humid outside air can leak in and mix with the cooled air inside your home, increasing overall humidity levels. A professional HVAC technician should repair any leaks as soon as possible.
- There is excessive condensation on your AC coils. When coils become too cold, they can frost over, obstructing airflow and causing issues with evaporating moisture from indoor air, resulting in increased humidity levels inside your home.
AC installation in Lombard, IL, can help you enjoy the summer heat without risking your health. High humidity levels can cause various health problems, including heat exhaustion and dehydration. In extreme cases, it can even lead to heat stroke. In addition to posing a risk to your health, high humidity can also damage your home. It can cause wood furniture to warp and paint to peel. It can also promote the growth of mold and mildew, which can lead to respiratory problems. If you are experiencing increased humidity levels in your home, call an AC installation expert today. They can help you return your home to a comfortable and safe place to live.