There’s just something about August on the Outer Banks that leaves us begging for fall… It could be the 100-degree days, but those often come around in June and July, too; the truth is, it’s the humidity. Too much humidity.
The excess amount of moisture in the air makes routine, daily activities uncomfortable. Not only that, but your air conditioner has worked nonstop; it hasn’t shut off even once in the last few weeks, yet somehow, the air in your Outer Banks vacation home still seems sticky and uncomfortable.
High humidity levels are unpleasant, but also present graver dangers to you and your home; consider (or hopefully, don’t) mold and mildew, and even the threat of harm to your vacation home’s structural components. It is the professional recommendation of Air Handlers OBX that homeowners take the necessary steps to get excessive humidity under control before it has a chance to cause major, and expensive damage.
Protect Your Outer Banks Home From Excessive Humidity
Think of a dehumidifier kind of like a refrigerator. Yes, a refrigerator.
Dehumidifiers compress and then expand gas in order to lower the temperature of metal coils to freezing levels, but — and this is where the appliances diverge — instead of directing the cooling action into a closed box, the dehumidifier blows warm, moist air over the cold, dry coils. Moisture condenses on the coils before turning into liquid water, which then collects in a drip pan. The once too-saturated air returns to circulate in a cleaner, more ambient manner. Ta da!
Benefits Of Operating A Dehumidifier
A dehumidifier will reduce the humidity levels inside your Outer Banks vacation home (though, sadly, we can’t do anything about the humidity outside but wait), decreasing the likelihood of allergen growth, and also:
- Dehumidifiers help eliminate the musty, or rotting smell that often accompanies the persistence of mold and mildew in your home.
- High humidity can cause wooden structures, such as floors and furniture to warp or become damaged over time. Drywall can also absorb moisture, leading to swelling and eventual structural damage.
- Dehumidifiers reduce skin and respiratory system irritation, which in turn makes it easier to breathe and your home more comfortable.
- A dehumidifier will also lead to less dust, as well as clothes that dry faster; foods that remain fresh longer; and fewer signs of rust or corrosion on metal appliances such as computers, electronics, and tools.
- High humidity can exacerbate indoor allergens like dust mites, mold spores, and mildew. By lowering humidity, a dehumidifier can help improve indoor air quality.
Coastal North Carolina homeowners who make good use of a dehumidifier can expect substantial air quality advantages, and more: to the tune of lowered energy costs.
Don’t make your air conditioner work hard than it has to:
A dehumidifier is an effective tool for protecting your Outer Banks, NC home from the negative impacts of excessive humidity, helping to maintain a healthier, more comfortable living environment and preserving the integrity of your home. Call the Outer Banks HVAC experts at Air Handlers OBX with any questions regarding purchasing, and the benefits of a dehumidifier.
