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 80% 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.

The Sources of Higher Humidity

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 properly installed, they can actually 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 properly installed so that it does not cause higher humidity levels in your home. Other factors to consider when the humidity in your home rises:

• Your ductwork is leaking. If your ductwork has cracks or holes, humid outside air can leak in and mix with the cooled air inside your home, increasing overall humidity levels. A professional HVAC technician should repair any leaks as soon as possible.
• The air conditioner filter must be replaced. A clogged filter can restrict airflow and force the unit to work harder than necessary, increasing humidity levels. Check and replace your filter regularly.
• There is excessive condensation on your AC coils. When coils become too cold, they can frost over, obstructing airflow and causing issues with evaporating moisture from indoor air, resulting in increased humidity levels inside your home.
• The air conditioner isn’t draining correctly. A small pan collects water as the window air conditioner removes moisture from the air. The water is then drained using a hose or tube. If this system becomes clogged, water will back into the unit, causing it to work inefficiently and resulting in higher humidity levels.

The Best Indoor Humidity

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 problems for you, your family, and your home. Microorganisms such as dust mites and mold spores thrive in high-humidity environments, potentially causing family health problems. Another issue caused by high humidity is moisture collecting on windows, doors, and even your wood furniture, which can cause severe damage over time.

AC installation in Cathedral City, 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.

Dustin Mullins