When it comes to cooling your home in some regions of the country, humidity control is as big of a problem as high temperatures. Unlike the arid Southwest, the Southeast and parts of the Midwest have very high humidity in the summer months and this can result in higher than necessary energy bills if you aren’t careful.

Humidity is behind the “heat index” you hear on the weather report and drives the “feels like” temperatures that are usually several degrees hotter than the actual temperature. Selecting and properly sizing your air conditioning equipment to deal with humidity is a little more difficult than just getting something that keeps you cool on the hottest days.

The Basics of Removing Humidity

Most central air conditioning systems are capable of removing humidity from the air in your home. Window units or ductless systems do not generally move enough air through the system to remove the humidity evenly from your entire home. While most central AC systems will work, effectively controlling your humidity so you’re comfortable day and night is best achieved with a high efficiency system.

Why?

• To remove humidity, an air conditioner has to be running. Basic, minimum 13 SEER systems typically run in either “on” or “off” mode. High efficiency systems (16 SEER and up) usually provide variable speed capacity which can run longer on lower power, giving the system more time to remove humidity.
• High efficiency systems are able to control the temperature more precisely, eliminating noticeable cold or hot swings and not allowing humidity to build up in the air.
• Because the air is constantly being conditioned with a high efficiency system, there is much less chance of stagnant humid air causing mold in the walls or attic.Additional Benefits

In addition to the added comfort you’ll feel with a high efficiency system capable of removing humidity, they also run much more quietly, which can be a benefit at night when you’re trying to sleep. Because they run on variable speed, high efficiency systems are also much more energy efficient, which translates to money saved every month on the energy bill.

The Bottom Line

Talk to ADE Heating and Cooling about humidity control and higher efficiency systems that can provide you with a comfortable environment, not just cold air.

ADE Heating and Cooling Inc.

609-693-9933

NJ Master HVACR Lic # 19HC00400200

NJ Master HVACR Lic # 19HC00136200

NJ Master Plumbing Lic # 36B100668500