HVAC systems are among the most important aspects of an indoor space, whether it is residential or commercial. After all, it allows you to achieve a comfortable temperature for your space. However, it’s not just about temperature. Humidity control is a factor you may have underestimated.

Understanding how your HVAC can affect (and control) humidity can ensure you are as comfortable as possible – and know when it’s time to seek the help of an experienced HVAC technician.

How Humidity is Affected by HVAC

Most HVAC systems are going to have an impact on humidity control within an indoor space. It serves as a dehumidifier and actually dries the air out. This means that if you have a significant amount of moisture in the air, an HVAC system can help to level things out.

Depending on the level of humidity, it is possible that it is affected in different ways by your HVAC – as well as attachments you may have on your HVAC system. For example, some systems will actually have humidifier controls. This can actually add moisture to the air so you’re more comfortable.

Controlling Humidity with Your HVAC

HVAC systems work on a closed system in comparison to an evaporative cooler that works on an open system. What this means is that your doors and windows should be closed for your HVAC system to work efficiently.

Since you’re not getting any fresh air inside, it can dry out quickly.

A standard HVAC system will only dehumidify to a certain degree. Often, it is more of a side effect than a function. Additionally, unless you have a specific attachment or system with specific features, you’re not going to get a lot of humidity controls.

Achieving the Ideal Humidity

Humidity levels should be between 30 percent and 60 percent. This is what is healthy for the average human. By achieving at least some humidity in the air, you can prevent your skin from drying out and ensure that there’s enough moisture to help with your sinuses.

If the air is too dry (low humidity), it can lead to skin problems, dry sinuses, and more.

If the air is too wet (high humidity), it can lead to mold and mildew problems and even cause various surfaces within your indoor space to be wet to the touch.

The temperatures outside will impact the humidity, too. If you find that summers are too humid or winters are too dry, you may need to consider ways that your HVAC system can address the humidity levels.

What Happens When There’s Too Much Humidity

You should know what kind of humidity level is in your home or business – especially if you think the humidity is too high. A hygrometer can be used to find out the humidity percentage. Some smart thermostats will also read the humidity.

If your AC unit isn’t working sufficiently as a dehumidifier to dry the area to a comfortable level, there may be a few reasons why:

  • AC unit is too large
  • Negative air pressure has developed
  • Ductwork is leaky
  • HVAC unit speed controls are limited
  • The thermostat is set incorrectly
  • Unit is old

Any of these issues can lead to excess moisture – and you’ll want to have your HVAC system serviced to get it under control.

Additionally, if your AC unit is constantly working to remove the humidity, it can lead to added water within the drain pan. And if the drain line becomes clogged, you can encounter significant leaks. It may also cause your system to become strained, leading to malfunctions.

Working with an AC technician can ensure you are able to address the humidity. You can have a full inspection to learn about the humidity level in your indoor space and determine if your system is able to keep up with the moisture in the air.

Whether the air is too humid or too dry, there are solutions available.

Explore the Right HVAC System for Your Indoor Space

With so many different HVAC systems on the market, it’s important to know which one is right for your space. Whether you are looking to keep yours running efficiently or you need a new system installed, working with knowledgeable HVAC experts is key.

At Comfort Systems, we can help you with the HVAC repairs and installs that you need for your indoor space. Additionally, we can help to address any humidity issues that you may have so that the solution makes sense for your home or business.

Contact us today to have a qualified and friendly technician scheduled to examine your cooling equipment.

Posted in HVAC system