Are Dehumidifiers Worth It?
Spring is approaching, and with the sunshine, flowers, and warmer temperatures that spring brings also comes higher humidity. That uncomfortable, sticky feeling you get when it’s hot and humid does not just stay outdoors – it can work its way into your home just as well. When your home is uncomfortably humid, a dehumidifier is the only way to solve the problem, but are they really worth it? The Advantage Air HVAC teams know a thing or two about dehumidifiers, and we can help you decide if a dehumidifier is appropriate for your home.
What is a Dehumidifier?
A dehumidifier uses compressors and refrigeration coils to cool air, and since cold air cannot hold as much moisture as warm air, the excess moisture released from the chilled air condenses and is collected in a tank within the device.
How Much Humidity Is Too Much?
The most common measurement of humidity is relative humidity. Relative humidity is a percentage that represents the amount of water vapor in the air compared to the maximum amount of water the air can hold at the current temperature. So, for example, if the relative humidity in your house is 75%, it holds three-quarters of the maximum water vapor it can. The ideal relative humidity for homes is between 30-50%.
Signs You Need a Dehumidifier
When thinking about if your house needs a dehumidifier, there are several signs that you can look for, including:
- The air in your house feels sticky and stuffy.
- You notice an unpleasant, musty odor or visible mold or mildew.
- There is condensation on your windows or wet spots on the walls or ceiling.
- You have more bugs than usual. Insects, including ants, termites, and spiders, love moisture, so a humid home is like extending an invitation.
If these are things that you are dealing with in your home, it may be time to consider getting a dehumidifier.
Benefits of a Dehumidifier
Bringing a dehumidifier into your home can bring with it a wide range of benefits.
- At the same temperature, humid air feels much warmer than dry air. When you feel cooler because you remove moisture from the air with a dehumidifier, you’ll use your AC less, which saves you money.
- You’ll enjoy
better air quality with fewer allergens and irritants, which is excellent for everyone, especially those with asthma, allergies, or other breathing difficulties.
- Removing excess moisture from the air will prevent it from damaging things like drywall, furniture, and artwork.
- Your home will be more comfortable.
HVAC Dehumidifier
Stand-alone dehumidifiers are useful for situational/occasional humidity in places like basements or bathrooms, but they won’t decrease the humidity throughout your home. By adding a dehumidifier to the ductwork of your HVAC system, you’ll enjoy consistent air quality and comfort in every room. A whole-house dehumidifier can even extend the lifespan of your HVAC system because it shoulders some of the burdens of moving and filtering the air.
The Verdict
A dehumidifier is worth it if you value comfort, clean air, and a home without moisture damage. When you factor in the potential savings on your cooling costs, a dehumidifier becomes a must-have for spring and summer here in Kentucky.
Dehumidifiers Near Lexington, Kentucky
Don’t let high humidity ruin your spring and summer. Contact us today to talk about dehumidifier solutions for your home. Advantage Air HVAC has served the community since 2007, and our team has over three decades of combined experience. We offer residential, commercial, and geothermal heating & cooling services.
Call us today at
(859) 559-6409 to schedule a service appointment. Advantage Air HVAC is in Lexington, Kentucky, and is happy to serve Versailles, Winchester, Georgetown, Paris, Wilmore, Nicholasville, and the surrounding area.
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