Average humidity levels are close to 80% during a Florida summer, and the extra moisture in the air adds to your sense of being uncomfortable and warm. You run your air conditioner to cool your home and give you a much-needed escape from the outdoor temperatures. Unfortunately, some humidity is also in the air of your home. If the levels are too high, you can feel like you are sweltering, even though the air conditioning system is running.
Isn’t Indoor Humidity Good?
Humidity is good to some degree. Moisture in the air can prevent dry sinuses and skin, breathing problems and the unpleasant effects of static electricity. Too much indoor humidity, though, can also be a problem. High levels of indoor moisture actually promote the spread of bacteria, dust mites, mold and viruses. High humidity inside your home takes a toll on your wood furniture and plants as well as electronics, artwork, collectibles and other precious valuables.
Maintaining Healthy and Comfortable Indoor Humidity Levels
We recommend humidity levels of 35% to 45% for most homeowners. Certain medical conditions may require a higher or lower indoor humidity level. By staying within the recommended range, you enjoy the many health benefits of having moisture in the air without increasing the risk for mold, bacteria, viruses and other airborne pollutants. The humidity level also protects your electronics and valuables.
Doesn’t My Air Conditioner Remove Moisture from the Air?
During the process of cooling indoor air, your air conditioning system does remove moisture from the air, but it is not the primary function of the system. As a result, high humidity levels can make your system work much harder. Over time, the system is less efficient, and your energy use increases. The lifetime of the system may also be reduced, and that may mean replacing the system sooner rather than later.
Steps to Reduce Indoor Humidity
You can take some simple steps to reduce the humidity levels inside your home.
- Do not use the fan setting of your system when the outdoor humidity levels are high. The fan setting draws air from outside directly into your home and increases indoor humidity.
- Turn on the exhaust fan of your bathroom, kitchen and laundry room when you bathe, cook and do other household tasks that require water. The exhaust fan draws moist air out of the room. Also, make sure that your dryer is venting the warm, moist air outside your home.
- Keep the windows closed during humid months.
- Check your downspouts and gutters for debris that keeps water near your home, especially the foundation. The water can seep through walls and foundations and add to indoor humidity.
Professional Dehumidification Products from And Services
If following these guidelines does not reduce the indoor humidity to a comfortable level, contact a professional technician of And Services. We will recommend an indoor dehumidification system that will maintain the proper humidity levels and help your air conditioning system run efficiently. Dehumidification systems prevent excess wear and tear on your air conditioning system by removing humidity from the air.
