Why Installing a Dehumidifier This Summer Is a Smart Move

What Is Humidity, and How Does It Affect Us?

Humidity is the measure of water vapor in the air. Too little of it, and the air becomes extremely dry, which is often the case during winter. The opposite is true in the summer, when rising temperatures force surface water to evaporate, turning it into water vapor that hangs in the air causing high humidity levels. When there is too much of it in the atmosphere, it can feel muggy and uncomfortable, which is why experts recommend using whole-home dehumidifiers in the summer to combat the discomfort that comes with too much water vapor in the air.

Understanding How a Dehumidifier Works

In the warm summer months, when humidity levels are typically at their highest, having a dehumidifier at home can do wonders to increase the comfort of air indoors. This becomes possible because a dehumidifier removes excess moisture from the air by bringing humid air into the unit and cooling it down so that the water vapor condenses back into liquid form, which is then collected in a tray and drained out. 

Homeowners can choose to run small portable dehumidifiers that service only specific rooms or parts of the home where damp spots or excess water tends to collect, or they may also choose to install a whole house dehumidifier. Whole home dehumidifiers are installed into the HVAC system to service an entire house. 

When to Install a Whole House Dehumidifier

Whole home dehumidifiers are a great addition to any home. Still, it is especially effective for homes with mold and mildew growth, condensation on the windows, and houses that can’t seem to shake off a musty smell indoors. This is because all these symptoms indicate that humidity is higher than it should be indoors, which encourages mold and mildew to grow. 

Condensation on the windows is also a sign of high humidity indoors. Excess water vapor in the air will condense on the panes, especially if it’s cooler outside than inside the home. Excess moisture can also damage walls, ceilings, floors, furniture, or upholstery and should be addressed immediately.

Whole Home Dehumidifier Benefits

Installing a dehumidifier at home benefits the health and comfort of all who reside there. Here are some of the most rewarding benefits of having a whole home dehumidifier:

• Prevents growth of mold and mildew: Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments, which are exacerbated by humidity. By reducing humidity, dehumidifiers also reduce the risk of mold and mildew. 

• Removes allergens in the air: Allergens are also much more rampant in damp environments, which is why bringing down the humidity level in the air will also greatly reduce most of the common triggers of allergic reactions.

• Improves indoor air comfort: High humidity can cause people to feel sticky in the heat. Dehumidifiers combat this discomfort by removing excess water vapor in the air responsible for creating a muggy, uncomfortable atmosphere.

• Improves the AC’s energy efficiency: Whole house dehumidifiers also have the benefit of reducing energy costs by allowing the AC to run more efficiently and less often.

About Star Air Conditioning & Heating

Star Air Conditioning & Heating is a Veteran owned and operated company serving Kissimmee and the surrounding communities. They provide 24/7 emergency response, fast turnarounds, and easy financing. Call them today for dehumidifier services in Kissimmee, FL.