Not only do dehumidifiers work with air conditioning, but in many cases operating them together provides noticeable benefits. Dehumidifiers are designed to lower the relative humidity of a house or room. Air conditioners lower temperature and humidity. They are very good at lowering temperatures but lowering humidity is a secondary goal.
Benefits Of Running a Dehumidifier with Air Conditioning
Air conditioners can usually be programmed to lower temperatures to a certain level and then the condenser turns off. As long as the machine is working it also lowers relative humidity. If they run long enough they can lower humidity to between 40% and 60%. When an air conditioner reaches its preset temperature, it shuts down and no longer reduces humidity levels. A dehumidifier continues working until its preset humidity level is reached.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends keeping home relative humidity between 30% and 50%. Anything over 60% promotes mold growth.
A dehumidifier does not cool a room. Lowering humidity levels allows sweat to evaporate–cooling your body and making the room seem cooler.
Air conditioners are less efficient when humidity levels are high. They have to work harder and run longer to achieve the desired temperature. Most dehumidifiers draw less power than air conditioners. Using a dehumidifier to lower relative humidity while the air conditioner cools the room saves energy.
Conclusion
If you live in a humid environment, running a dehumidifier with an air conditioner makes good sense. Working together dehumidifiers and air conditioners produce the following results.
- Lower humidity levels improve health and reduce mold and dust mites. High humidity can cause asthma attacks, allergies, skin rash, difficulty breathing, and compromised immune system–especially the respiratory system.
- Lower humidity quickly to make the room feel cooler.
- Lower temperature quicker.
- Save energy.
- Reduce wear and tear on equipment.
