We live in St, Augustine, FL, which means that humidity is a constant presence in the summer months (and even some of the fall, winter and spring months as well). High humidity levels make it feel hotter in your home than it actually is, and while you can cool the air, you often need to lower the amount of moisture present as well. The good news is that – by their very nature – air conditioners tend to act as dehumidifiers as well, a process that can be improved even further by installing a dedicated dehumidifier in your system. “How does air conditioning dehumidify my home?” you ask. We’ve included a quick breakdown below.
Lowered Temperatures Reduce Moisture
Humid air is measured by “relative humidity,” which loosely defines the amount of gaseous moisture in the air. 100% relative humidity is the “dew point,” where all that moisture condenses into liquid form. (For most people, the air is most comfortable when the relative humidity stands between 30% and 50%.)The good news is that gaseous moisture reverts to liquid form as it cools, condensing into droplets rather than remaining in the air. That’s why dew forms in the early hours of the morning, when temperatures are coolest.
Air Conditioners Benefit from Dehumidifiers
Air conditioners aid that process thanks to the liquid refrigerant that facilitates the cooling process. As the refrigerant enters the evaporator coils, it shifts to gaseous form, which pulls heat from nearby warm air and creates condensation to dehumidify it. That process creates condensation, which most air conditioners collect and remove via a drip pan. The cooler, drier air is then pushed into your home and as the system runs, the humidity levels gradually lowers. Dedicated dehumidifiers – either stand-alone or functioning as part of the existing air conditioning system – simply speed up the process, while reducing the strain that high humidity causes to your air conditioner.
If you’re interested in lowering the humidity in your home, then the professionals at Climate Masters Heating & Air Conditioning can help. Call us to make an appointment today.
