AC Humidifiers 101
Humid indoor air can cause damage to your home and furnishings, and promote the growth of mold and dust mites, in addition to making you uncomfortable. A quality dehumidifier is going prevent a number of difficulties you may face as a homeowner. Consulting with the best Allentown HVAC repair contractors will help you achieve the most comfortable humidity levels in your home
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Controlling humidity is very important. Relative humidity levels should not exceed 40-50%. Homes with high humidity usually face the following symptoms:
- Allergic Reactions
- Musty Odors
- Mold Growth
- Stains on Ceilings and Walls
- Condensation on Windows and Mirrors
- Damage to Home and Furnishings
- Ongoing Allergies
- Other Health Problems
Humidity Levels
Humidity is often associated with that muggy feeling you experience on a warm summer day. There are two forms of humidity: absolute humidity and relative humidity. Absolute humidity refers to the mass of water vapor divided by the mass of dry air in a volume of air at a given temperature. As such, the hotter the air, the more water it contains.
On the other hand, relative humidity refers to the ratio of the current absolute humidity to the highest possible absolute humidity. If an environment has 100% relative humidity, this means the air is saturated with water vapor and can hold no more moisture. This creates the possibility of rain.
Sweating is your body's way of keeping cool and maintaining its current temperature. This is why you feel hot and sweaty when humidity levels are high.
When there is low relative humidity, you feel much cooler than the actual temperature because sweat is quickly evaporating and cooling us off. In other words, if the temperature is 75° F with zero relative humidity, it will feel like it's 69° F. If relative humidity is 100%, it will feel like it's 80° F.
On the other hand, relative humidity refers to the ratio of the current absolute humidity to the highest possible absolute humidity. If an environment has 100% relative humidity, this means the air is saturated with water vapor and can hold no more moisture. This creates the possibility of rain.
Sweating is your body's way of keeping cool and maintaining its current temperature. This is why you feel hot and sweaty when humidity levels are high.
When there is low relative humidity, you feel much cooler than the actual temperature because sweat is quickly evaporating and cooling us off. In other words, if the temperature is 75° F with zero relative humidity, it will feel like it's 69° F. If relative humidity is 100%, it will feel like it's 80° F.
How To Choose the Best Dehumidifier for You
A homeowner should consider the size of the unit, dehumidification capacity, and safety features. Below is a list of some of the most common things to look for when choosing a moisture removal system and what it means to you.
Size: The size of a dehumidifying unit is generally based on the amount of moisture extracted from the air in 24 hours,. This is usually measured in pints. Purchase a larger capacity model over a smaller one because larger units can dehumidify more area in a shorter amount of time.
Portability: If you're looking to move your unit from room to room, look for one that is compact, lightweight, and includes a carrying handle or rolling casters.
Built-In Humidistat: If you'd like to be able to adjust humidity levels, find an option with a humidistat. This feature will automatically turn the unit on/off depending on the humidity setting.
Automatic Shut-Off: This function will allow you to turn the unit on or off without having to unplug it. It also prevents overfilling when the storage tank is full.
Low Temperature Operation / Automatic Defrost: If you're using it in temperatures colder than 65° F, look for a unit that has an anti-frost sensor. You want ot make sure it will operate in cold temperatures. This prevents quick cycling and frost from accumulating on the sensor.
Storage Tank Capacity: Almost all types have storage tanks for the collected water. If you're not planning to purchase a model with a continuous drainage port, you'll have to empty the tank periodically.
Continuous Drainage: Models with a continuous drainage port eliminate the hassle of emptying a condensation tank. Simply attach a hose to the dehumidifier and the moisture will drain out through the hose.
Washable / Removable Air Filter: Units that have washable filters trap airborne dust and particles. If the filter is washable, this makes maintenance a breeze: simply pull out the filter; rinse it with mild soap and water; and put it back.
Brand: There are several brands available, so if you're loyal to a particular one, this may be something to consider.
Price: Many types can range from under $50 for mini units to $300 for basement models.
Size: The size of a dehumidifying unit is generally based on the amount of moisture extracted from the air in 24 hours,. This is usually measured in pints. Purchase a larger capacity model over a smaller one because larger units can dehumidify more area in a shorter amount of time.
Portability: If you're looking to move your unit from room to room, look for one that is compact, lightweight, and includes a carrying handle or rolling casters.
Built-In Humidistat: If you'd like to be able to adjust humidity levels, find an option with a humidistat. This feature will automatically turn the unit on/off depending on the humidity setting.
Automatic Shut-Off: This function will allow you to turn the unit on or off without having to unplug it. It also prevents overfilling when the storage tank is full.
Low Temperature Operation / Automatic Defrost: If you're using it in temperatures colder than 65° F, look for a unit that has an anti-frost sensor. You want ot make sure it will operate in cold temperatures. This prevents quick cycling and frost from accumulating on the sensor.
Storage Tank Capacity: Almost all types have storage tanks for the collected water. If you're not planning to purchase a model with a continuous drainage port, you'll have to empty the tank periodically.
Continuous Drainage: Models with a continuous drainage port eliminate the hassle of emptying a condensation tank. Simply attach a hose to the dehumidifier and the moisture will drain out through the hose.
Washable / Removable Air Filter: Units that have washable filters trap airborne dust and particles. If the filter is washable, this makes maintenance a breeze: simply pull out the filter; rinse it with mild soap and water; and put it back.
Brand: There are several brands available, so if you're loyal to a particular one, this may be something to consider.
Price: Many types can range from under $50 for mini units to $300 for basement models.
Combating Allergies
Many of the most common allergy triggers, especially dust mites, mold, and mildew, thrive in humid environments. Whether you live in a humid climate, or you just have a living space that tends to be more humid, you may be suffering from these things. Small living spaces with limited ventilation, such as bathrooms or kitchens in a small apartment or basement apartments, are common areas where moisture can build up, even in dry climates.
Mold allergies are also a significant contributor to childhood asthma, which can be a debilitating and costly disease for children who develop it at a young age. Also, dehumidifiers help reduce odors that can accompany mold and mildew in your home—getting rid of that “musty” or “rotting” smell.
Mold allergies are also a significant contributor to childhood asthma, which can be a debilitating and costly disease for children who develop it at a young age. Also, dehumidifiers help reduce odors that can accompany mold and mildew in your home—getting rid of that “musty” or “rotting” smell.