What is humidity? Simply put, it is the amount of water vapor in the air. The higher the humidity level, the “stuffier” it feels. You know how the mirror fogs up when you take a hot shower? That’s a great example of high humidity. What most people don’t realize is that the level of humidity in your home can greatly affect the efficiency of your air conditioner.
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Because humidity is water vapor – it is literally water in the air. The amount of humidity determines how much heat the air will hold. Therefore, the higher the humidity, the harder your air conditioner will have to work to cool the air down. This is one of the first things you should check if you feel that your air conditioner is running too long or your energy bill drastically increases once you turn your air conditioner on for the summer.
What Can You Do?
During the summer months, to help your air conditioner run more efficiently, keep the humidity lower. This recommended level is between 30-45%. You can easily measure your home’s humidity by using a hygrometer or installing a small home weather station that monitors the temperature and humidity. Some advanced home automation systems may also be able to tell you what the humidity level of your home is. However, if this is too complicated, you can also take visual cues from your home for signs that your humidity level is high and your air conditioner may be working too hard. Here are some visual cues for high humidity levels in our home:
1. Mold growing in rooms that regularly use water like your kitchen, bathroom and laundry room.
2. Increased allergy symptoms or family members or visitors due to increased mold levels.
3. Window condensation on the inside.
Likewise, if the humidity level is too low, you will see evidence of dry skin, chapped lips and static electricity.
If the humidity is too high, use a dehumidifier to reduce the levels. Also use fans and keep the air currents moving to help stabilize the levels and reduce the amount of work your air conditioner needs to do.
Additionally, if your humidity levels are too low, you can use a humidifier to increase them. However, this is not a problem that usually interferes with your air conditioner as it’s much more common in the winter months when you are using your furnace.
An efficient air conditioner will result in lower energy bills. Pay close attention to your home’s humidity levels to reduce the amount of work your air conditioner is required to do.
Tri-Star Heating & Cooling has earned its reputation as a leading NKY HVAC Contractor by providing the best heating and air conditioning products and services to the entire Greater Cincinnati area for over 30 years. We are dedicated to the principles of quality services at affordable pricing while delivering the latest in products and technology.