Balanced Humidity Is a Challenge Here, Especially in the Summer

Corpus Christi summers are typically sweltering and sticky because of the high humidity outside, which can bring about too much moisture in your home’s indoor environment. Although maintaining balanced humidity is a year-round challenge to your comfort and health, it’s particularly daunting during the summer months. 

Adverse effects of high humidity include:

• Warped wood furniture or floors
• Sticky floors
• Musty smells
• Mold growth on surfaces including wood, carpeting and draperies
• “Sweaty” water pipes because of condensation
• Stains or soft spots on walls or ceilings
• Overall discomfort
• Dry, cracked skin and lips
• Allergy, asthma and other respiratory or health problems

Humidity is influenced by fluctuations in temperature, weather and climate. To mitigate moisture problems, the trick is to maintain an optimal humidity level of 35 to 45 percent year-round. Consider these three strategies you can implement to keep your home’s humidity levels within this range:

1. A/C settings. Resist the temptation to set your A/C fan in the “on” position so that the fan runs continuously. Instead, set it to the “auto” position, which allows the  to shut down with the compressor periodically. This way, evaporator coil condensation drains outside instead of being circulated back into your home.
2. A/C enhancer. An A/C enhancer is an energy-efficient device that attaches to your A/C equipment and works in tandem with it to increase your system’s humidity removal in the summer time.
3. Dehumidification systems. Portable and whole-house dehumidifiers remove excess moisture from the air inside your home. A whole-house dehumidifier is a minimal maintenance option because you won’t have to empty drainage pans.  Whole-house options typically are more energy-efficient, too. Your HVAC technician can help you determine which system is best for your house.

The professionals at CCAC, Inc. can help keep your home and furnishings free from moisture damage, plus we’ll help keep your family comfortable while minimizing health risks attributed to mold and moisture-related allergens. Contact us today so we can help you achieve the goal of balanced humidity in your Coastal Bend home.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Corpus Christi, Texas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about balanced humidity and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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