Air conditioning and HVAC systems provide comfortable climate control in homes and other structures. Although some people may believe that these systems have a uniform if not a generic design, nothing could be further from the truth. A unit installed in a humid area such as Miami functions differently than one serving a home in a desert climate such as Las Vegas.
The best systems available for use in San Antonio, Texas, and surrounding areas are those suited for our annual climate and humidity levels. In some regions, HVAC systems and smaller, stand-alone units act as humidifiers. In other locations, the goal is to dehumidify the air.
What is a Humidifier?
Humidifiers add moisture to the air. Point-of-use humidifiers increase the relative humidity in a room or small space, while HVAC units in drier climates perform a similar function throughout a structure. Humidifiers are frequently used in drier climates and desert areas, regions that have low levels of moisture in the air. In such areas, our bodies experience water loss and a greater chance for respiratory illness without sufficient liquids. Books, furniture, and other organic items (materials with carbon within them) tend to bend, shrink, or become very brittle. Static electricity increases. A humidifier restores the living conditions to a comfortable balance and preserves organic items.
What is a Dehumidifier?
Dehumidifiers perform the opposite function, removing moisture from the air. In wetter climates, dehumidifiers reduce the relative humidity in a room. Most air conditioners act as de facto dehumidifiers, and stand-alone units perform similar functions in otherwise un-air-conditioned spaces or areas requiring special attention, such as those with collectibles and rare books. Excessive levels of humidity promote mold and mildew, dust mites, and other serious contaminants that create an unhealthy living environment. Relative humidity and the wind speed are often used by meteorologists to calculate what they call the “feels-like” temperature in forecasts.
What is the Optimal Humidity Level in a Home?
In most cases, home humidity levels should fall within a range between 30 and 50 percent. An ideal level during much of the year is around 45 percent, with the level a little lower during the colder months so there is not excessive condensation on the windows. Air conditioning experts often measure the relative humidity in an area with a hygrometer.
Rosenberg Indoor Comfort serves the San Antonio metropolitan area in Texas. Our technicians are familiar with the local climate and will recommend the best solutions to offer you a comfortable living. Contact us today for more information.
Tags: AC Service, Dehumidifier, Humidifier