Summer in Connecticut means big temperature fluctuations and days of high humidity. The state’s location on Long Island Sound and prevailing winds send a lot of ocean effect moisture through cities and towns. The presence of air saturated with moisture can create issues in and outside of homes.
A professional HVAC technician can discuss the pros and cons of whole house dehumidifiers, which can extend the lives of household items, improve indoor air quality, and preserve your home’s structural integrity.
Battling Connecticut’s “Humid Continental” Climate
The climate classification for Connecticut is “humid continental,” which means it can stay above 70 percent on the Köppen climate classification or near 74 percent humidity during the hottest summer days. That often means that when it’s 85 degrees outside, the humidity can make it feel 10 degrees warmer, and sticky, oppressively hot. Health experts say that level of humidity is not healthy for indoor air.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says indoor humidity levels should not exceed 60 percent humidity. Above that level, mold and dust mites may flourish.
Moisture management techniques are necessary to maintain a healthy humidity level. Homeowners can attempt to use small, single-room portable units but those struggle to keep up with summertime’s work loads.
Extreme precipitation events have been happening with regularity, adding to the moisture burden of the region. In Connecticut’s river valleys, along the coast, and in low-lying areas, the need for dehumidification is significant.
How High Humidity Affects Your Home
Indoor humidity is more than just an uncomfortable experience for people. Its impacts over time can include:
- Growth of mold and mildew
- Damage to structural and decorative wood surfaces
- Worsening asthma symptoms
Signs that high humidity may be damaging your home include:
- Condensation inside windows
- Peeling paint and wallpaper
- Musty basement and closets
- Warped wood floors
Can An Air Conditioner Alone Handle Humidity?
Most people assume that a central air conditioning system can manage humidity adequately. While it removes some moisture as a byproduct of cooling, it’s often not enough to mitigate the high humidity found in Connecticut. A dedicated dehumidifier is designed specifically for removing moisture; turning air conditioning up to compensate for high humidity is not as efficient.
Whole Home Dehumidifier vs. Portable: What’s the Difference?
Portable dehumidifiers are available and inexpensive, but they can only handle one room. Whole house dehumidifiers use the central AC ductwork to remove moisture from the entire home. Whole house units are more expensive but they are efficient, usually offsetting the difference in price over time.
The difference in lifespan of a whole house system vs. single room dehumidifier is significant. A small portable unit has a typical lifespan of three to five years while a whole house system is often reliable for up to 15 years. Connecticut residents dealing with persistent, ongoing humidity often find that a whole house system is the better investment.
Some of the benefits of whole house systems include removing more moisture per day than portable units and draining continuously—no bucket to empty.
What Does a Whole House Dehumidifier Cost?
The cost of whole house system depends on the home’s size and the configuration of existing ductwork, typically from $1,500 to $3,000. Additional costs can include electrical work and installation of an internal pump when necessary.
Solving a Significant Issue for Homeowners
Humidity in Connecticut is a genuine home maintenance concern, not just an issue of comfort. A whole-house dehumidification system, installed by Unified Home Solutions, professionally installed and integrated with your existing AC equipment, is a reliable, low-maintenance solution. It will protect your health and your investment in your home. Call for a consultation today.