If your home is constantly humid, you might be wondering whether your AC system is to blame. High humidity levels can manifest in several ways.
You may notice moisture on glass windows or even mildew developing on walls. While a functional AC system can regulate your home’s humidity levels, certain problems can occur that lead to high humidity levels.
How AC Systems Affect Indoor Humidity
AC systems don’t necessarily increase humidity levels. They actually have the opposite effect by removing moisture vapor from the air and, thus, lowering humidity levels.
When turned on, your AC system will remove heat from your home’s indoor air. The evaporator coil will absorb heat so that it can be transported outdoors for removal. A byproduct of this heat absorption process, however, is condensation.
As the evaporator coil absorbs heat, moisture vapor will collect and condense on the metal fins. The moisture vapor will then drip into a pan where it’s drained to your home’s exterior.
AC System Problems That Can Increase Humidity
There are certain problems that can prevent your AC system from removing moisture vapor. One of the most common problems is a clogged condensate drain.
The condensate drain is the pipe or tube that runs from the evaporator coil pan to your home’s exterior. Normally, moisture vapor will drip into the pan where it enters the condensate drain.
If the condensate drain is clogged, moisture vapor won’t be able to leave your home. It will remain trapped inside of your home which contributes to high humidity levels.
Another AC system problem that can increase humidity is short cycling. Short cycling involves an AC system running for a short period before turning off.
While it may seem harmless, it can lead to premature and wear of your AC system’s components. At the same time, short cycling can make your home more humid.
Your AC system can only remove moisture vapor from your home while it’s running. With short cycling, your AC system will run for short periods. Therefore, it may not have the opportunity to remove a sufficient amount of moisture vapor.
Whether your AC system has a clogged condensate drain, or if it’s short cycling, you should contact a professional heating, ventilation, and cooling (HVAC) technician. Fixing these problems will promote a more efficient AC system that both cools and dehumidifies your home more effectively.
If you are experiencing a problem with your air conditioning or heating call us at 512-336-1431 to schedule an appointment. We’ll be glad to come out and take a look at the issue.
1431-183 A/C & Heating proudly serves Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Leander, Liberty Hill, and North Austin.
