Spring and summer months are notorious for many things that put a smile on our faces, like warm weather, vacations, and special occasions. But spring and summer can also bring a few unfortunate realities, one of them being the presence of increased moisture in the air. Unless you live in the heart of a desert, you’ll have to worry about humidity when out and about.
But one place where you probably don’t want to deal with humidity? Your home. And yet many homeowners struggle with moisture in their homes that makes it uncomfortable to eat, sleep, and relax in their humble abode. Most homeowners rely on air conditioning units or dehumidifiers to reduce humidity, but which option works best? We’ll break down the moisture-relieving effects of air conditioners and dehumidifiers and help you find the solution to your moisture problems.
Why Indoor Humidity Levels Matter
Our bodies may be around 70% water, but it doesn’t mean we want our homes to be! The presence of moisture can do more than just make you feel a bit uncomfortable.Moisture leads to mold and mildew, posing significant health risks to your family and damaging your computer circuit boards or optical equipment. Moisture isn’t just home for mold, either. Plenty of viruses and bacteria are attracted to areas with excess moisture, and you can risk exposing yourself to unnecessary sickness by simply turning a blind eye to humidity levels. With all of this being said, the ideal range for your home’s humidity should be anywhere from 30-50%.
What Are Dehumidifiers?
Dehumidifiers do exactly what the name implies. They work to reduce humidity in your home by taking moisture out of the air. They won’t provide cool air as an air conditioner would, but they do help to improve the air quality around your home. Dehumidifiers can also combat typical allergens found in the springtime that cause sneezing, wheezing, chest pains, and irritation. So if you’re dealing with allergies and a sweaty and uncomfortable home, try using a dehumidifier and kill two birds with one stone.
What Are Air Conditioners?
Most of us have air conditioners in our homes. These units cool homes using evaporator coils, condensers, compressors, and refrigerants to transfer warm air out. The type of AC you buy depends on the size of your home. Still. most air conditioners can solidly cool down a home in no time while working to keep away humidity and other interior elements that make your home uncomfortable.
When to Opt for Dehumidifiers and When to Rely on an AC
Truth be told, the difference lies in how you best approach finding the right balance between temperature and moisture. Air conditioners also work as dehumidifiers, as they often drain the water vapor and condensation in the air via drain lines on your exterior unit.
Even though they do this, not every AC can duplicate the effects of a dehumidifier. If you’re in a place surrounded by a lot of water, your AC can only do so much. You may need to rely on a dehumidifier to remove all the moisture. On the contrary, areas with dry air may only need an AC. Additionally, you should consider budgetary considerations. If your AC is on its last legs, you’ll eventually need to consider installing a new unit, but a dehumidifier might work best until you save up for a more powerful AC.
At the end of the day, it comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer to focus on reducing humidity and not worry too much about an elevated temperature. Others care about the temperature and aren’t too concerned about humidity and its effects. Regardless of your preference, an AC and dehumidifier can do a fine job in the right situation.
Dehumidification Services Can Help You Enjoy a More Comfortable Home
Sometimes, humidity issues stem from problems that aren’t easily solved with the use of an air conditioner or a dehumidifier. Many hidden problems can lead to excess moisture in your home, especially if you’re frequently using malfunctioning equipment or living in an older home.
That’s where the Bolton Plumbing, HVAC, & Fireplaces team comes in. We offer dehumidification services to help Georgia residents combat rising temperatures as spring and summer approach. There’s nothing worse than living in an uncomfortable home environment, but with our help, we’ll find the source of your moisture problems and work on an effective long-term solution. So regardless of whether you choose a dehumidifier or an air conditioner, ensure your home is in the perfect condition to house your family’s ideal temperature and humidity.