Humidity levels in your home play a major role in determining your comfort and health. Too much humidity can make your living environment feel stuffy and uncomfortable, encouraging mold growth and dust mites. On the other hand, too little humidity can cause dry skin, irritate your respiratory system, and increase static electricity. Your air conditioning system does more than just lower the temperature in your home as it also plays a major role in managing humidity levels, which ensures your comfort throughout the year. Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning would like to discuss how air conditioners control humidity, improve comfort, and how you can restore proper humidity levels in your home.

How is Humidity Controlled with an AC System?

The process of cooling the air also removes moisture. Here is how your air conditioner system helps in managing home humidity levels:
Condensation Process – As warm, humid air passes over the cold evaporator coil of the air conditioner, the moisture in the air condenses on the coil and is collected in a drain pan before being expelled from your home. This process effectively removes a significant amount of moisture from the indoor air, helping to reduce humidity levels.
Thermostat & Humidistat Settings – Modern air conditioning systems often come equipped with thermostats that have built-in humidistat functions. This feature allows the system to not only maintain a set temperature but also to control humidity levels, enhancing overall comfort.
Variable Speed Fans – Some advanced air conditioner systems feature variable speed fans that can run at lower speeds for longer periods. This not only helps in maintaining a consistent temperature but also improves dehumidification, as the air moves slowly over the coils, allowing more moisture to be removed.

How Do I Permanently Fix the Humidity in My House?

While air conditioners are effective at removing excess moisture, they can sometimes lower humidity too much, especially in arid climates or during certain times of the year. Here’s how to restore and maintain proper humidity levels:
Use a Humidifier – If your home’s humidity levels are consistently too low, consider using a humidifier. There are various types available, from small units designed for a single room to whole-house systems that work in conjunction with your HVAC system.
Ventilation – Proper ventilation, especially in high-moisture areas like the kitchen and bathroom, can help manage humidity levels. Use exhaust fans when cooking or showering to remove excess moisture directly from these areas.
Regular AC Maintenance – Ensure your air conditioner system is regularly serviced and maintained. Clean filters and coils improve efficiency and the system’s ability to manage humidity. A well-maintained air conditioner unit can remove moisture more effectively, maintaining comfortable humidity levels.
Seal Leaks – Air leaks around doors, windows, and other openings can let in moist outside air, affecting indoor humidity levels. Sealing these leaks can help maintain your desired indoor humidity.
Strategic Plant Placement – Indoor plants can contribute to indoor humidity levels. Placing them strategically can help increase humidity in areas that are too dry.

Central Air Conditioner Maintenance, Repairs, Replacement, Emergency Repairs & More in Springfield, Granby, Holyoke, South Hadley, Monson, Chicopee & Agawam, Massachusetts

Your air conditioning system is a vital tool in managing indoor humidity levels, contributing greatly to your home’s comfort and air quality. Understanding how your air conditioner affects humidity and taking steps to maintain the right balance can make your home more comfortable and healthier. For help restoring your home’s humidity or other HVAC services, contact Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning today!