Temperature isn’t the only aspect of home comfort during the summer. It’s important to maintain relative humidity (RH) at 60% or below. Above 60%, you’re inviting dust mites and mold. Most people feel comfortable between 40% and 50% relative humidity and won’t need to set their thermostat temperature as low.
High-Efficiency AC
Your air conditioner dehumidifies as a byproduct but isn’t a dehumidifier itself. A well-functioning AC can generally maintain RH at a comfortable level. When it’s time to upgrade, you may want to consider a high-efficiency AC. These systems have higher SEER and SEER2 ratings. That means they use less electricity and cost less to run. They’re also more effective at dehumidification due to features like variable-speed blowers, longer cooling cycles, and dry modes.
Spring Tune-Ups
ACs have an outdoor condenser coil and an indoor evaporator coil. Those coils are integral to the refrigeration process and build up grime over time. That accumulation acts like an insulator, which makes cooling and dehumidification less efficient. Schedule coil cleaning every spring to ensure your AC maintains a low RH naturally.
Filter Management
Proper airflow through the system is crucial to humidity control as well. Make sure that your outdoor condenser unit is free of leaves, branches, and other debris throughout the summer. Use a high-MERV filter for better air quality, but don’t exceed what your system can handle. If your system supports MERV 8 and you use a MERV 9 filter, it will reduce airflow too much. That will impact comfort, decrease efficiency, and reduce dehumidification. You should also check your filter at least once a month and swap it out as needed.
Improved Circulation
Unless you have zoned HVAC, keep all the vents in your home open. Close doors only when necessary for privacy. Run ceiling fans in all rooms where they’re practical. The appropriate summertime setting is the highest fan speed and a counterclockwise rotation. In rooms where they’re not practical, you can, for instance, use air-circulating fans. The higher air movements will result in lower humidity and air pollution.
Better Ventilation
Conventional ACs reuse your air supply and don’t provide fresh air. For improved ventilation, consider a mechanical ventilation system. There are even systems designed for summertime use, such as heat and energy recovery ventilators.
Whole-Home Dehumidification
A whole-home dehumidifier will actively remove water vapor from your air, and you can set it to a precise RH. Most integrated dehumidifiers function ahead of the AC. That reduces the cooling workload. The benefits include lower cooling costs and an extended AC lifespan. Whole-home dehumidifiers are also a lot more convenient than portable units, which require regular cleaning.
Comfort should be your focus this summer. Ace Home Services can help you improve humidity levels in your Phoenix, AZ home, so call today or contact us online to learn more about AC installation and accessories.
