Most people know that excess humidity can make them feel uncomfortable in the summertime, so it stands to reason that humidity makes air conditioning work harder. Conversely water vapor in the air in the wintertime will make your home feel more comfortable. Humidity levels affect HVAC systems in summer and winter more than you realize.
When residential humidity is too high or too low, optimal comfort is compromised. Many contemporary HVAC systems have humidifiers and dehumidifiers to keep humidity levels in check. Typical signs of excess humidity include:
• Moist, clammy air
• Foggy windows
• Musty odors
Does My HVAC System Control Humidity Levels?
HVAC systems should be able to remove ambient moisture, but when humidity levels spike, many systems can’t cope. When humidity is excessively high, your home will feel warmer than it is. The HVAC system will continue to run to counteract the negative effects of the cool side of the system. A drop in energy bills is a side benefit. Humidity affects heating, but in the opposite way, making the interior of the building ultimately more comfortable. When summer air is properly dehumidified in a home, the air will feel comfortable, while the problems emanating from too much humidity will also be resolved.
Ideally, thermostats should be set between 71 and 77 degrees, figures that will allow the system to operates in a range that provide truly comfortable results. Note that when humidity levels that fall below 50%, the ambient air will feel cold, no matter how warm or how cool.
Humidity levels also affect indoor air comfort in winter when the heating portion of the system operates. The most effective way to deal with low indoor humidity in the winter is by using a humidifier, which can be installed on your HVAC system. Humidifiers add moisture to the air before it is forced through ducts. The end result is a warmer and more comfortable home and energy bills that are lower.