What Are the Benefits to Adding a Humidifier or Dehumidifier to My HVAC System?
How an HVAC tech would describe the product upgrade benefits of humidity control for your heating and cooling system.
For industry techs, product upgrade benefits are simply how a new piece of HVAC equipment or an HVAC accessory can benefit you, the customer. The real trick is having things explained in laymen’s terms. If you’re wondering about the benefits of having a humidifier or a dehumidifier in your home, you want to understand it in simple terms that relate to you and your life. Here’s a breakdown we think will help:
Understanding Relative Humidity
Relative humidity is the amount of moisture in the air compared to what the air can hold. When we’re talking about the inside of your home, the ideal level of humidity is between 30% and 60%. Anything lower or higher will not only be uncomfortable, but can have ill effects on your home and your health, not to mention your utility bills.
Warm Air and Humidity
Humid air not only feels warmer but it also more easily holds heat. In the winter, you want the air in your home to be within the range of desired humidity to hold the warm air and make your home more comfortable. It will also help keep your heating costs down because it will help your heater be more effective and efficient. If the humidity level in your home falls too low, a humidifier can help bring it up and keep it consistent.
Cool Air and Humidity
Because humid air feels warmer, you want drier air in the summer when you’re trying to cool your home. Drier air is easier to cool and will make your air conditioner work less and be more effective. It will also feel cooler in your home if the air is drier. If the humidity levels in your home rise in the summer, a dehumidifier can bring them down and make your home more comfortable.
Humidity is our friend…except when it’s not. Understanding when you want your air drier and when you want it more humid can help you decide whether or not a humidifier or dehumidifier is right for your HVAC system.