What Is Humidity – And Why Should It Worry Homeowners?
Summer is in full swing, and humidity levels are at their highest for Louisiana residents. This is because air can hold more water vapor in warmer temperatures than in colder temperatures. "Relative humidity" refers to the amount of water vapor in the air at a given temperature relative to how much it can hold.
So why does this matter to homeowners? Most people keep their homes quite a bit cooler in the summer than outside, and since cool air can't hold as much water vapor, all that moisture in the air tends to condense inside the home. This can turn the home into a moist environment, leading to mold growth, damage to the home and furniture, and uncomfortable living space. The home's air conditioner can remove some water vapor while it cools the air, but this isn't always enough – which is where dehumidifiers come in.
How Does a Dehumidifier Work?
Simply put, a dehumidifier removes water vapor to reduce indoor humidity levels. It does this by pulling in air and blowing it through an array of metal coils filled with refrigerant, which keeps them cold. The air around the coils will cool, causing the water vapor to condense. The condensation will collect on the coils (like on a cold soda can on a hot day), then drip into a reservoir or drain pan below.
With some dehumidifiers – portable models in particular – the unit will automatically shut off when the water in the reservoir reaches a certain point, signaling that it's time to manually empty the reservoir. Whole-house dehumidifiers, typically installed more permanently and connected to the home's existing ductwork, have a condensate drain line discharging the water outside or in a drain.
Signs a Dehumidifier Is Needed
Many home thermostats display indoor humidity as a percentage and the temperature. The ideal range for indoor humidity is around 30-50%, so if the thermostat is much higher than that, even with the air conditioner running around the clock, it's probably time to get a dehumidifier. For those whose thermostats don't have this function, there are a few other signs of high humidity in the home:
- The home feels muggy or stuffy
- Upholstery or carpet feels damp
- The musty or mildew smell inside the home
- Condensation on windows or air vents
- Water stains or discoloration on walls
- Mold growth (often appears first in bathrooms and other areas that tend to be more humid in general)
- Crackers, chips, and cereal go stale or lose their crunch quickly
- Bread and fruit spoil faster at room temperature
Advantages of Having a Dehumidifier
There are numerous benefits of having a dehumidifier in the home. Perhaps most importantly, it improves indoor air quality and protects the family's health. This is partly because high humidity can lead to stuffy sinuses and aggravate respiratory issues and partly because it creates a moisture-rich environment that can foster mold growth and bacteria. Keeping the humidity at healthy levels will help prevent these issues.
But a dehumidifier can also help protect furniture and the home from moisture damage (humidity can warp wood and drywall, cause wallpaper to peel or bubble, and cause fabrics to deteriorate faster). It can also discourage insect infestation (many pests thrive in humid environments), make the home more comfortable overall, and even increase its property value by keeping the place in great shape.
And since summertime in Louisiana is about as muggy as it gets anywhere in the world, there's no better time to get a dehumidifier. Of course, every home is different, so homeowners should consult their trusted HVAC contractor to determine whether a portable or whole-home dehumidifier is right for them!
About Albritton Service Co
The award-winning Albritton Service Co has proudly handled Ruston's HVAC, indoor air quality, and electrical needs since 1982. Their licensed, insured, drug-tested, and background-checked technicians are available 24/7 for emergency service when it's needed most. They always provide up-front pricing and personalized solutions to fit any budget and guarantee 100% satisfaction on every job – so don't hesitate to ask Albritton about dehumidifiers in Ruston, LA, today!
