You may have heard that a central AC system is all you need to control summer humidity in your home. But if your air feels damp even with the AC running, you might be wondering why it doesn’t seem to be enough.
Don’t sweat it — let’s dive into the issue and explore what you can do for a more comfortable home this summer.
How Does Central AC Work & Control Humidity?
Central air conditioning systems cool your home by removing heat and moisture from the air. As warm indoor air passes over the evaporator coil, the coil extracts both heat and humidity. The moisture condenses on the coil and drains away, which lowers humidity levels in the process.
However, this humidity control is a byproduct of cooling — not its main purpose. On extremely humid days, or if your system is too big and short-cycles frequently, your AC might not run long enough to remove enough moisture. That’s when our clients start to notice persistent dampness, musty smells, or even signs of mold.
Do I Need a Whole-Home Dehumidifier?
If your home still feels humid when the air conditioning is on, it might be time to consider a whole-home dehumidifier. Unlike small portable units, a whole-home dehumidifier is installed directly into your HVAC system.
It can handle large volumes of air and maintain consistent humidity throughout your home, not just one room. It works alongside your HVAC system to actively monitor and reduce indoor humidity, pulling moisture directly from the air as it circulates.
Benefits of a Whole-Home Dehumidifier
- Increases comfort: Living in a humid home is uncomfortable, but a whole-home dehumidifier can keep you feeling fresh and cool.
- Creates healthier air: High humidity can allow mold to grow and worsen allergies or respiratory problems. Keeping your home’s humidity in check can help you breathe easier.
- Reduces AC strain: Your AC doesn’t have to work as hard to cool your home at lower humidity levels, meaning that a whole-home dehumidifier helps it cool more effectively and last longer.
- Protects your home: High indoor humidity can cause mold growth, warped wood, and unpleasant odors. Lowering the humidity will keep your home and belongings safe from moisture damage.
If your central AC alone isn’t keeping moisture in check, a whole-home dehumidifier could be the solution.
Why Choose Wade Heating & Cooling for Humidity Control?
Staying comfortable in your Pittsburgh-area home goes beyond heating and cooling. For over 40 years, Wade Heating & Cooling has served clients across the Pittsburgh metro area with solutions to address all areas of indoor comfort.
Whether you need an AC service or dehumidifier installation, our experts can provide personalized recommendations tailored to your home.
Contact our team today to schedule a whole-home dehumidifier installation in Pittsburgh or surrounding areas.
