Is Your AC Causing High 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 90% 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 Causes High Humidity in Your Home?

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 correctly installed, they can 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 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 correctly installed so that it does not cause higher humidity levels.

Another possible reason is the AC coils. When coils get too cold, they can frost over, obstructing airflow and causing problems evaporating moisture from indoor air, resulting in higher humidity levels in your home.

Your air conditioner may not be properly draining. A small pan collects the condensation as the window air conditioner removes moisture from the air. A hose or tube is then used to drain the water. If this system becomes clogged, water will back into the unit, causing it to work inefficiently and increasing humidity levels.

Sometimes it can be as simple as changing your filter. A clogged filter can restrict airflow and force the unit to work harder than necessary, increasing humidity levels. Check and replace your filter regularly.

What Should Your Indoor Humidity Be?

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.

High Humidity Can Lead to Health Issues

AC installation in Santa Cruz, CA, can help you enjoy the summer heat without jeopardizing your health. High humidity levels can result in a variety of health issues, including heat exhaustion and dehydration. It can even cause heat stroke in extreme cases. High humidity can damage your home in addition to endangering your health. It can warp wood furniture and cause paint to peel. It can also encourage the growth of mold and mildew, which can cause respiratory issues. If you are experiencing high humidity levels in your home, contact an AC installation specialist immediately. They can assist you in restoring your home to a comfortable and secure environment.