An Explanation of Humidity
It probably doesn’t take much explanation for locals to understand the implications of humidity. When the weatherman says humid weather is headed this way, everyone knows it will be hot, stifling, and sticky. The same conditions can be found inside the home, the one place where people are supposed to be able to take refuge from the humidity when temperatures rise.
Humidity in the home is not just uncomfortable but can also contribute to lung problems by creating the perfect environment for mold growth. Luckily, there is an easy way to remove humidity from home and likely save some money simultaneously. Here is a quick discussion of how dehumidifiers can help and signs a home may need them.
How Do Dehumidifiers Help?
A dehumidifier is a device whose sole purpose is to lower the amount of moisture in the air in a given area. These devices range from portable units for home use to industrial units used in disaster restoration. Most often, whole-home dehumidifiers are installed in homes as part of an overall indoor air quality strategy.
Dehumidifiers work similarly to an air conditioner. Air conditioners reduce humidity in a home by blowing the warm, moist air in the house across the evaporator coil in the AC. When the humid air hits the cold coil, the humidity condenses to form a liquid drained away to a home’s drain or into a basin to be discarded. A dehumidifier uses the same process regardless of the size or style that was chosen to be installed in a home.
Signs a Dehumidifier May Be Necessary
The signs that a dehumidifier is necessary for a home can be fairly obvious but frustrating. Here are a few indicators that homeowners should consider a dehumidifier:
- Condensation around the windows
- Mold growth
- Musty odors
- High energy bills
- Humid air, even when the air is chilled
- Hygrometer readings above 60%
Dehumidifiers can be installed alongside air conditioning equipment to control the whole home all at once. Dehumidifiers can also come as portable units to control humidity in the portions of the house that suffer the most from high humidity.
Benefits of Dehumidifier Installation
The following are the benefits of dehumidifiers:
- Comfort: People are most content with humidity levels ranging from 40-60%. When these levels are exceeded, the body can’t cool itself easily. The result is a perception of higher temperatures and clamminess. Dehumidifiers automatically keep humidity levels at a setpoint giving homeowners more control over their comfort.
- Savings: To overcome warm-feeling, humid air, homeowners will likely keep cranking the thermostat down. This causes the AC to run longer and requires a lower temperature to feel comfortable. Removing humidity with a dehumidifier allows the homeowner to turn up the thermostat without sacrificing comfort, leading to energy savings.
- Health: Chronic allergies and lung problems often result from low-quality indoor air. Besides air filtration, humidity levels are important to lung health. Lowering humidity levels decreases mold growth and can allow lungs to recover.
About LenAire, Inc.
LenAire, Inc. is a locally owned and operated business with over 30 years of experience serving Bossier City, LA, and the surrounding areas. They offer free second opinions, easy financing, and cutting-edge technology. Call them today for dehumidifier services in Bossier City, LA.