The human body cools itself through a combination of thermal radiation and evaporation of perspiration. When the humidity it high, the body’s ability to sweat is reduced and therefore, you “feel” hotter. Humidity, which is the amount of water vapor in the air, needs to be controlled at a low level to enable the body to more easily evaporate sweat and rid itself of heat. The Environmental Protection Agency endorses the HVAC industry standard, AHRAE 55-1992 that recommends humidity levels inside a residence be maintained between 30%-60%. Levels below 50% are preferred to reduce dust mites. High moisture levels in a home can lead to virus, fungi, dust mites, mold, bacteria, allergic rhinitis, and asthma.

A properly sized air conditioner is designed to remove moisture from the air and reduce the humidity levels. Studies show that a summer set point of 78F at 30% Relative Humidity (RH) provides the same level of comfort as a 74F set point at 70% RH. If you can reduce the moisture levels (Humidity) in your home, you will feel the same level of comfort at a higher temperature. Since your cooling accounts for roughly 50-60% of your summer power bill, and since less humidity means your system won’t have to work as hard to dehumidify, you will then be able to save on energy costs.

What are ways that moisture is produced in your home? The primary problems result from moisture produced while showering, cooking, and clothes drying. These sources can be virtually eliminated by simply using exhaust fans when cooking and showering. The fan should be turned on when the activity begins and allowed to run for 15 minutes after it ends. Another major source of humidity is from infiltration of outside air. To prevent infiltration, check and repair the weather stripping around your windows and doors, seal all other joints or cracks that can allow air leaks, limit trips in and out of the house in very humid conditions, eliminate water around (and under) the house, and make sure your duct system is properly sealed.

The choice is yours… a simple air conditioner to cool the air in your home or a true comfort system. At Reeves, we understand that you don’t just want a box to cool air; you want to be comfortable in your home.  We’ve had central air conditioning for many years now… the time has come to EXPECT MORE! If you are interested in finding out how you can get more from your HVAC system, call me today. I can provide a no-cost, no-obligation plan to increase your efficiency and comfort.

Thomas Rooks

Reeves Heating & Air Conditioning

910-791-1004

thomas@reeveshvac.com