Have you noticed that the inside of your home is feeling stickier and muggier than usual, even when you hear the air conditioning running? The AC should be pulling humidity out of the air, which makes the space feel more comfortable. If that isn’t happening, then something is wrong that you need to have fixed.
Here are five common reasons your AC may be ineffective at controlling the humidity of your home.
Incorrect unit size
When it comes to air conditioning, bigger isn’t always better. In fact, a unit that is oversized for the space won’t be as effective or efficient at drawing out heat and humidity.
If the AC unit was installed before you moved into the home, you don’t know how the system was designed. An HVAC professional can inspect your air conditioning and tell you if it’s the proper size.
Single stage unit
Usually found in older or lower-cost unit, a single-stage AC is only capable of running at one speed. Basically, it’s either on or off, similar to a light switch. However, there can be times when the temperature in your home is under the desired setting of the thermostat but the humidity level is high. Since the AC isn’t turning on a frequently, it can’t pull that humid air out of the space.
The solution to this problem is installing a two-stage or variable speed system that provides more flexibility in cooling and dehumidifying the home.
Negative air pressure
Negative air pressure occurs when too much air is being vented out of a space and not being replaced by new air. This can happen when the ductwork is not properly designed or installed. If you have doors that slam on their own, negative air pressure may be the reason. Negative air pressure can also force outside muggy air back inside, which will increase the humidity level of the home.
Dirty coils
Condenser coils are located within the outdoor unit of your air conditioning. Since they’re exposed to the elements, it’s common for the coils to accumulate a layer of dirt or debris. This reduces the coils’ heat transfer capabilities and forces your unit to work harder.
A simple solution is to schedule preventative maintenance from an HVAC professional. The appointment should include a cleaning of the coils, along with a number of other tasks to keep your AC running smoothly.
Older AC unit
As your air conditioning nears the end of its service life, it will struggle to work as effectively and efficiently as it used to. You may notice that it runs for a long time to bring the temperature down to the desired level. It may also have a hard time pulling the moisture out of the air. While regular maintenance may help the situation and prolong its usage, eventually you will need to replace the unit. The good news is that the latest models are more advanced and energy efficient.
Uncomfortable, high humidity levels in your home is not something you should ignore and suffer through. Instead, call the local experts at Robert B. Payne Our trained technicians can determine the cause of your humidity control issue and fix it so you can enjoy the rest of your summer. Send us a message or call 540-373-5876 to schedule an appointment today.
