Due to its climate, upper Marlboro experiences hot and humid weather conditions during the summer. The severity of indoor heat increases during periods of high humidity, which often comes with elevated moisture levels.

The operation of air conditioners provides cooling effects on the air, but they might not eliminate the presence of moisture. The operation of dehumidifiers creates dry air by lowering moisture levels, which makes the environment more comfortable for occupants. But can both be used together? Let's find out!

How Air Conditioners Work

Air conditioners neutralize indoor temperatures through air ventilation, which extracts heat from the exterior and cools the inside spaces. The refrigerant inside transports heated indoor air outside, releasing it into the atmosphere.

The exchange between warm air flowing near cold evaporator coils enables moisture condensation, which reduces indoor humidity levels. The dehumidification process depends on multiple factors, including the operating duration of the system and the temperature difference between indoor and outdoor environments. ​

How Dehumidifiers Work

Dehumidifiers operate exclusively to lower the moisture content in indoor air. A dehumidifier draws humid air through vents, cools the moisture to the condensation point, and then heats the air before discharging it.

Through this method, the device effectively removes humidity without changing the room's ambient temperature. The primary function of dehumidifiers is to remove moisture, which enables them to perform better than air conditioners in controlling high humidity levels. ​

Key Differences and Limitations

Many buildings in Upper Marlboro face limitations regarding dehumidification with air conditioners because their moisture reduction is insufficient for these conditions. The primary task of ACs is to cool air, but their effectiveness in removing moisture remains limited.

A dehumidifier operates to eliminate moisture, bypassing the cooling process of AC units, which helps lower humidity levels while minimizing temperature fluctuations in the space. When operating an air conditioner in highly humid environments, consider using a dehumidifier to enhance comfort and prevent mold development and dampness.

Benefits of Using a Dehumidifier Alongside Your AC

1. Increased Comfort

Too much moisture creates warmth and humidity despite your functional air conditioning system. A dehumidifier transfers moisture from the air and promotes a drier indoor climate. As moisture content is minimized, the temperature in the air gets cooler, contributing to a warm and inviting place.

A dehumidifier will be incorporated into the humidity condition of your air conditioner. These conditions eliminate odors and offer clean air. The drying effect of a dehumidifier establishes greater indoor comfort and stops offensive moisture symptoms from arising.

2. Energy Efficiency

Air conditioners face heightened difficulty working when the humidity inside your space increases. The heat-retaining property of wet air presents problems with air conditioners' ability to attain a lower temperature. By pulling moisture away, a dehumidifier lessens your AC's work.

Also, the air conditioning system becomes less energy-intensive and more efficient when cooling air requires less workforce. Operating a dehumidifier enables higher AC efficiency, conserving electricity and energy expenditures.

3. Stops Mold and Allergies

Mold, dust mites, and allergens thrive in optimal conditions, as they require high humidity. Allergies and respiratory issues are born out of these, while your house is filled with bad smells. A dehumidifier regulates indoor humidity, providing conditions where it will be difficult for mold and allergens to multiply.

The application of a dehumidifier controls indoor air quality by eliminating amounts of excess moisture. Asthma and allergy patients typically need dehumidifiers, as dehumidifiers lower the amount of health-worsening factors. Controlling the humidity in your home leads to a healthier environment for your family.

4. Longer AC Lifespan

High humidity forces your air conditioner to operate continuously for cooling and dehumidification. The additional load on your air conditioner reduces lifespan, leading to more breakdowns and higher repair costs. Your air conditioner uses a dehumidifier to lower air moisture content more efficiently.

Your AC unit's lifespan is longer as its components are subjected to less stress due to this. Your cooling system will experience increased durability and reduced unexpected maintenance costs through a dehumidifier. Purchasing a dehumidifier leads to AC protection, resulting in extended operational effectiveness.

When Should You Use Both an AC and a Dehumidifier in Upper Marlboro

​Operating a dehumidifier and an air conditioner makes your home more comfortable and beneficial. Residents of Upper Marlboro should combine these devices because the following conditions make it necessary:

1. High Humidity Seasons

The summer months in Upper Marlboro are characterized by high humidity, which affects the area. May through September brings frequent mugginess and oppressive conditions to the region. Consider running a dehumidifier with your air conditioning unit during hot months to maintain a proper indoor relative humidity level. ​

2. If Your AC Struggles

Your home may remain damp even when the air conditioner operates continuously, indicating it fails to manage moisture levels effectively. Installing a dehumidifier helps your air conditioning unit perform more efficiently while reducing energy consumption. ​

3. In Basements and Problem Areas

Basements and some areas of homes tend to accumulate moisture due to poor ventilation and a tendency to remain cool. Humidity levels from these conditions create environments where both dampness and mold growth and musty odors form. ​

4. For Health Reasons

Increasing air humidity exacerbates asthma and allergy symptoms by promoting mold growth, dust mites, and other allergens. Individuals who experience respiratory sensitivity may benefit from reduced allergy symptoms by regulating humidity using dehumidifiers in conjunction with air conditioners.

Conclusion

Combining a dehumidifier with your Upper Marlboro AC system will deliver better comfort while saving energy and defending your home against mold growth and allergens. Using a dehumidifier can help extend the lifespan of your air conditioning system. High humidity dampness and allergy issues necessitate utilizing a dehumidifier. For the optimal solution for your home, contact Riley Heat & Air.