It’s common for Emerald Coast, FL homeowners to experience HVAC problems that are the result of high humidity. High humidity can force your HVAC system to run frequently to achieve comfort. As a result, vital components, such as the compressor and blower motor, can overheat. Parts can wear out, and you may experience a shorter system lifespan than is typical. High humidity can also lead to mold problems and coils freezing.
How Does High Humidity Lead to System Strain?
High indoor humidity slows down the process of your body sweating to regulate your body temperature. You might start changing the thermostat to make up for the uncomfortable indoor conditions.
These adjustments lead to strain on your HVAC system. Cooling equipment may run more often, use more energy than normal, and wear down faster. Over time, your AC will struggle to keep up with your cooling demands, and you may see a need for frequent repairs.
High Humidity Causing Dirty Coils
Warm, humid air passes over the evaporator coil in an AC system, where water vapor will eventually condense. When humidity is particularly high, it can leave the coil wet for long periods of time.
This wet surface can lead to a greater accumulation of airborne particles. The dust and dirt that would normally blow through the system adhere to the coils. Dirty coils can reduce airflow and prevent normal heat transfer.
Our team can inspect and clean your HVAC coils. In addition, we’ll make necessary repairs, such as straightening aluminum fins and clearing the condensate drain line. This routine HVAC maintenance prevents future high-humidity air conditioner issues.
High Humidity and System Corrosion
High humidity in Emerald Coast homes often leads to rust and corrosion within HVAC systems. Moisture on the system’s metal surfaces can corrode the metal and cause rust to form.
When warm, humid air passes over the evaporator coils, it condenses. This moisture can mix with pollutants in the air and create acidic conditions. That acidic moisture accelerates corrosion on the coils and the metal casing.
Furthermore, humidity can break down factory-applied paints and protective coatings. This leaves metal components vulnerable to oxidation.
In coastal areas, airborne salt produces further issues. It causes a highly corrosive saltwater film on the outdoor condenser coils and metal brackets. This substantially shortens the equipment’s lifespan.
What About HVAC Mold Problems?
When there’s mold in your HVAC system, it can circulate microscopic spores throughout your home. This leads to severe health risks.
Ongoing mold exposure can cause an increase in allergies and asthma. Other symptoms include chronic headaches, fatigue, brain fog, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Vulnerable people, like infants and the elderly, face the highest risk of mold-related health problems.
HVAC mold problems can happen when high indoor humidity levels lead to damp air ducts. If particulate matter is present in your ducts, this moisture and debris can cause mold to grow quickly. You can improve your indoor air quality and prevent mold by keeping relative humidity levels between 35% and 50%.
Our team can help you control high indoor humidity air conditioner issues with a whole-home dehumidifier on your HVAC system in Florida. Make sure you schedule routine coastal HVAC maintenance as well. This gives us an opportunity to spot and address mold early.
Is Drain Pan and Pump Failure Due to High Humidity?
High humidity directly affects your HVAC system’s drainage components. Your AC can remove gallons of water from the air daily. If the condensate pump has a low capacity or the drain pan is shallow, you can experience a water overflow.
In addition, that extra water can lead to the pump turning on and off frequently. This constant cycling causes extra wear and tear on the pump and other mechanical parts. Older metal pans can rust or corrode, while plastic ones can become brittle in these conditions.
Your HVAC Expert in Emerald Coast
The Green Air Group can assist you with your high-humidity air conditioner issues in Emerald Coast. Our certified and experienced technicians provide expert AC repairs and upgrades. We also offer coastal HVAC maintenance to help you avoid future problems. We’re a Trane comfort specialist, but we work on all brands and models.
We’re your go-to expert when it comes to humidity HVAC problems in Florida. Call today to schedule an appointment with The Green Air Group in Emerald Coast.
