When the temperatures rise, the last thing you want is for your house to feel damp and sticky, even with the AC running. It’s frustrating and uncomfortable and can leave you wondering what went wrong. If your house feels humid with the AC running, don’t worry. You’re not alone in facing this issue, and there are effective ways to resolve it.
This guide will walk you through the common causes of indoor humidity and practical solutions to make your home cool, dry, and comfortable again.
Why Does Your House Feel Humid With the AC Running?
An air conditioner should do more than just cool your home; it’s also designed to remove excess moisture from the air. If your house feels humid with the AC running, it’s a sign that something is off. Here are common reasons why this happens:
1. Dirty Air Filters
Clogged air filters restrict airflow, preventing your AC from working effectively. When airflow is limited, your system struggles to reduce humidity levels inside your home.
2. Frozen Evaporator Coils
Evaporator coils are designed to cool and dehumidify indoor air, but when they freeze, that process is disrupted. This might happen due to low refrigerant levels, clogged filters, or dirt buildup.
3. Leaking Ductwork
If your duct system has gaps or cracks, it can allow humid air from attics or crawl spaces to mix with your cooled air. This results in higher indoor humidity levels.
4. Improper AC Size
An oversized air conditioner cools your home too quickly, without running long enough to properly dehumidify. On the other hand, an undersized unit can’t keep up with cooling demands, leaving your home humid.
5. High Outdoor Humidity
Sometimes, high outdoor moisture levels can overwhelm your AC. This is especially common in regions with tropical or subtropical climates.
6. Incorrect Thermostat Settings
If your AC is set to “ON” rather than “AUTO,” the fan runs continuously, circulating humid air through the home without adequately dehumidifying it.
Practical Solutions to Reduce Humidity
The good news is that most of these issues can be fixed with the right maintenance and adjustments. Here’s what you can do to address humidity problems in your home:
1. Clean or Replace Filters
Check and replace filters monthly during periods of heavy use. Clean filters help improve airflow and ensure your AC operates efficiently.
2. Defrost Frozen Coils
Turn off your AC to allow frozen coils to thaw. Clean the area around the coils and check for dirty filters, low refrigerant, or blockages that may have caused the issue.
3. Seal Leaky Ducts
Have your duct system inspected for leaks. Sealing gaps not only reduces humidity but also improves energy efficiency.
4. Get the Right AC Size
Consult an HVAC specialist to ensure your AC is properly sized for your home. An appropriately sized unit will run long enough to cool and dehumidify effectively.
5. Use a Dehumidifier
If outdoor humidity is the main culprit, a whole-house dehumidifier can work alongside your AC system to remove excess moisture from the air.
6. Adjust Thermostat Settings
Set your thermostat to “AUTO” rather than “ON.” This lets the system cycle on and off as needed, allowing it to dehumidify properly.
7. Schedule Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures all parts of your AC system are in top shape. Professionals can clean coils, check refrigerant levels, and inspect for any underlying issues causing high humidity.
Trust Fahrenheit AC for Your AC Maintenance and Repair Needs
When it comes to keeping your home comfortable, Fahrenheit AC is here to help. With over 25 years of experience in the South Florida area, they specialize in installing, maintaining, and repairing all types of air conditioning systems. Their AC Maintenance Agreements are designed to ensure your system operates at peak efficiency, keeping your home cool and humidity-free year-round.
Here’s why you can trust Fahrenheit AC:
- Comprehensive Maintenance – Their service includes cleaning coils, lubricating moving parts, and checking refrigerant levels to optimize system performance.
- Energy Savings – Their tune-ups help reduce energy bills while extending the lifespan of your AC.
- Priority Service – Maintenance customers enjoy VIP priority scheduling and discounts on repairs and replacements.
Don’t wait for humidity problems to worsen. Reach out to Fahrenheit AC today and take the first step toward a comfortable, worry-free home.
Final Thoughts
If your house feels humid with the AC running, it’s likely a sign of an underlying issue with your system. Whether it’s a dirty filter, frozen coils, or improper settings, identifying and addressing the problem can make all the difference. Routine maintenance, along with adjustments to your system, can help you enjoy a cool, comfortable, and dry home.
And if you’re in South Florida, remember that Fahrenheit AC is just a call away. Their team of experts is ready to help you tackle humidity issues and keep your system in top-notch condition.
Take control of the humidity in your home today!