How Dehumidifiers Affect AC Unit Performance
In Alabama, humidity can make your home feel warmer than it is. And while homeowners can improve their comfort by cranking down the AC, they do so at the expense of their wallet. Even when the AC unit is working hard to eliminate moisture, that sticky feeling doesn’t go away.
As a result, some residents turn to dehumidifiers as a solution. But what effect do these dehumidifiers have on your AC unit? Let’s explore this question and see if adding a dehumidifier is the right move for your home. Before we can answer this question, we first need to understand how dehumidifiers reduce humidity.
How Dehumidifiers Work
Dehumidifiers remove humidity from the air in our homes. First, the dehumidifier absorbs the humid air and cools it down. While the air cools down, moisture in the air is forced to condense into water. Essentially, the moisture is separated from the air during this cooling process. Dry air is then expelled from the machine while the excess water is stored.
How Does Drier Air Affect Your AC Unit?
Having dry air circulating within your home can greatly reduce the strain felt by your AC unit. By removing excess humidity, your AC is able to cool your home more efficiently. Improved AC efficiency means that you can enjoy a cooler environment at a lower temperature.
Homeowners are able to lower their thermostats but remain comfortable during Summer. Since dehumidifiers improve AC efficiency, monthly utility costs may be lowered as a result.
Additional Benefits of Dehumidifiers
Another benefit provided for your AC is protection. When dehumidifiers are working, AC units do not absorb as much moisture which makes them less prone to condensation buildup. If an AC unit has too much condensation, its drain lines can become clogged, restricting airflow and leading to freeze-ups.
Dehumidifiers not only lessen the likelihood of damage, but they can be beneficial for our health as well. When the machines remove moisture from the air, they lower the chances of mold, mildew and dust mites developing within our home.
These allergens can cause respiratory issues or asthma attacks for those who have the condition. By reducing the levels of humidity, dehumidifiers help to lower the risk of experiencing health issues related to mold, mildew and dust.
Are There Any Downsides to Having a Dehumidifier?
While there are several benefits to having a dehumidifier, they are not without their faults. Some potential downsides include:
- Air may become too dry – Air may become too dry if you continuously use your dehumidifier. When air becomes too dry you can irritate your eyes, skin and respiratory system.
- Increase your energy bill – If your dehumidifier is being used continuously, your power bill may actually rise since dehumidifiers require electricity to function.
- Regular maintenance required – Like any other piece of equipment, dehumidifiers require routine maintenance, especially when it comes to preventing mold growth in the machine. Additionally, some models have water reservoirs that need to be emptied regularly, which can be a nuisance if you use your dehumidifier frequently.
- Noise – Unfortunately, portable dehumidifiers can be noisy which can be a problem for homeowners who are sensitive to loud noises.
What Does This Mean for Alabama Homeowners?
Dehumidifiers are very helpful when combatting humidity in the summertime. They can make your home feel more comfortable, improve your AC’s efficiency and lower the likelihood for mold to develop. However, homeowners shouldn’t use dehumidifiers continuously, especially when humidity levels are low as this can cause problems.
Consider Routine Maintenance
While dehumidifiers can lower humidity, they shouldn't be the only method used to keep your home comfortable. Routine maintenance and inspections can significantly improve your AC’s efficiency. The more efficient your unit is, the less work your AC has to do to combat humidity in your home. Homeowners can keep their homes cool without spending more on monthly utility bills and increase the longevity of their units.
Need Professional AC Services? Contact C&G Today!
If you're looking for professional AC services, our expert technicians can help. Located in Smiths Station, C & G Heating & Air Conditioning serves several communities along the Alabama-Georgia border including Phenix City, Auburn, Opelika and Columbus.
For more information about our HVAC services, give us a call at 334-489-3329. To learn more about other services including ductwork maintenance, click the link
here.
