Air conditioning is an essential amenity for homes in tropical locations, like Hawaii, where the weather is warm year-round. Having an HVAC contractor maintain the cooling system ensures comfort for people who live in the home. Frequent maintenance also minimizes damage to your hardwood surfaces from excessive exposure to warm air.

What Damage Can Warm Air Do to Hardwood?

Warm air carries moisture as it circulates an area. When wood gets exposed to high temperatures and humidity, it absorbs moisture and swells, making the hardwood flooring to cup or crown. Cupping can also cause floorboard edges to become higher than its center. Crowning is the opposite, and the middle of the board becomes higher than the sides.

In extreme cases, humidity causes buckling. This damage happens when too much expansion causes the boards to pull away from the subfloor. Sometimes, wood swelling can cause boards to press against each other, making them crack.

Too much humidity can also cause damage to wood furniture and interior fixtures, like banisters. Aside from warping, moisture can lead to dust mite infestations or mold growth, which can present a health hazard for occupants.

How Can You Prevent Warm Air Damage to Hardwood?

Maintain proper humidity levels to regulate the air’s moisture and prevent damage to hardwood floors and furniture. Have the cooling system serviced by an HVAC contractor to ensure that the humidity level inside your home stays at a safe level, which is below 50%. If you’re going on a vacation, set a timer so that the AC turns on during the hottest time of the day, preventing moisture buildup that could take its toll on the hardwood.

If you need air conditioning maintenance to protect your home from Hawaii’s hot humidity, contact the skilled team at American Air Conditioning in Honolulu. These reliable HVAC contractors can service any unit since they’re familiar with several systems, including ductless split, widow, and central. Learn more about their maintenance services online, or call (808) 847-0851 to request an appointment with an HVAC contractor.