What’s the first thing that pops into your mind when thinking of heating and cooling problems?
Strange noises, weak output, and increased dust and debris are frequent answers. Yet, one of the most important issues to note is humidity.
It’s true; your HVAC system plays a critical role in residential humidity control.
Let’s take a closer look at various HVAC humidity problems to watch.
1. Why Does the House Feel Humid With the AC Running?
A working air conditioner is mandatory for surviving hot, sweltering summers. Air conditioners also regulate humidity levels through their standard cooling processes.
As your AC removes hot air from the home, it pumps (and distributes) cooled air throughout the house, lowering humidity levels effectively. Air is pulled over evaporator coils and transformed into condensed liquid before draining out of the system.
Thus, if your evaporator coils are clogged or broken, you’ll notice a rise in indoor humidity. Sometimes, a simple coil cleaning will do the trick, but older, worn-out coils may require a replacement. Keep the surrounding area free from debris to prevent gunk from clogging the coils.
Air ventilation could also be the culprit. Clogged vents and filters prevent cool air from circulating, increasing humidity issues. You can buy washable filters, but most AC filters should last. You may need immediate HVAC repair or routine cleaning.
2. Is Your Home Too Big for Your HVAC system?
A home’s size is a frequently overlooked contributor to HVAC humidity problems.
If your new heating and cooling system technically works properly, your house’s size may be the problem. This problem is more common with central HVAC systems and window air conditioners than mini-split ductless systems.
For example, if an HVAC contractor doesn’t perform a heat-load calculation before installing, you may end up with a system that’s too small for your house. Thus, your AC would have to work harder to cool down your home, wearing out the coils, increasing the risk of humidity issues. This costly mistake speaks to the importance of hiring an experienced HVAC professional.
3. Window Air Conditioners
Your home may be too big for your window sill ACs, as well.
Window air conditioners are ideal for small apartments, including some small one-story-sized homes. However, these appliances already have shorter lifespans than central ACs and mini-split ductless air conditioners.
Window ACs are also more prone to immediate humidity issues since they jet out from the home’s exterior, exposing them to rain and hail. You must remove any water before running the AC again, which leads to the next vital point:
Unmitigated humidity increases the risk of mold and pests. Critters, bugs, and other common pests love moisture and puddles. Pests also carry diseases, increasing health risks, and mold-based health issues like breathing problems, fatigue, and migraines.
Prevent HVAC Humidity Problems Before They Start
You don’t want to deal with the hassle of mold, water damage, and increased health risks. Follow this guide as you look for potential HVAC humidity problems.
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