If you are debating whether or not to invest in a new system, you may want to become familiar with how a central air conditioner operates. Do air conditioners dehumidify a house or living space? Yes, a central air conditioning system is designed to remove humidity, but it can only do so much by itself. If you are dealing with high humidity levels in your living space, you may want to install a dehumidifier. To ensure you are comfortable, we have created an outline of what your air conditioner can and cannot do to dehumidify your home.
Why You May Need to Install a Dehumidifier
Your unit cools the air by running it over coils, which helps separate moisture from the air. The moisture collects in your system and drains out while cool air is pushed into your home. However, even with an optimal AC setting, several factors can hinder the ability of your system to dehumidify. Below are examples of some factors.
- A unit that is too small won’t adequately dehumidify
- An air conditioner that is too large will cool your home too fast and shut off, leaving some humidity behind
- Old or dirty filters prevent air passage needed for adequate dehumidification
The Differences Between Dehumidifiers and Air Conditioners
The main difference between dehumidifiers and air conditioners is their purpose. While air conditioners do dehumidify, their primary purpose is to remove hot air and add cool air to a space. In its hot air removal process, moisture from the air is also removed as a consequence. On the other hand, dehumidifiers excel in removing moisture from the air. As a result of less moisture in the air, the temperature of your room may also drop.
How a Dehumidifier Works
An air conditioner does dehumidify, but not nearly as well as a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers are engineered to pull moisture from the air, cool it, and separate it from the air. Depending on the type of dehumidifier you invest in, the excess water may drip into a tray which needs to be occasionally emptied.
When To Choose a Dehumidifier vs. an Air Conditioner
Having trouble deciding which appliance is right for you? Air conditioners do dehumidify and provide superior cooling. A dehumidifier is better for getting moisture out of the air but does not provide cool air. Use the three factors below to help determine which appliance is a good fit for your needs.
Personal Preference
It’s your living or working space. So you have to ask yourself how you would like the room or environment to feel. Even if you prefer a room at a set temperature, perhaps an air conditioner is for you. If you’d rather have a room with less humidity at a comfortable temperature, then a dehumidifier is what you will want.
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Budget
The cost difference between an AC unit and a dehumidifier is almost incomparable. An air conditioner will typically cost more and comes with installation costs as well. On the other hand, dehumidifiers are generally affordable, portable, and require no additional installation. The drawback is that an air conditioner can do more to cool and control temperatures, with some dehumidifying effects.
Location
Do you live near a large body of water? If so, you’ve probably noticed the astronomical levels of humidity. Well, an AC unit won’t be able to sufficiently remove all that moisture from the air. You’ll likely need a dehumidifier to feel comfortable in your home.
Our Air Conditioning Repair & Installation Services
Are you still unsure of which appliance to go with? Remember, your air conditioner does dehumidify your home. However, the system does not remove excess moisture to the extent of an actual dehumidifier. Our team of technicians will help you choose the best type of system for your home. We offer exceptional air conditioning repair and installation services for homeowners in Georgia.
In addition, our technicians provide other types of HVAC services such as furnace installation, heat pump replacement, air purification system installation, and furnace repair. If you need help with a damaged air conditioner, give our team a call at (770) 852-8504 to book an appointment. Our staff can be reached 24/7 to help you.