Existing HVAC System
Existing HVAC System | Dehumidifier Installation | Heating and Air Conditioning | Clinton
When summer humidity turns your Clinton home into a sticky swamp or winter condensation fogs up the windows, HEP’s experienced HVAC team steps in with precise dehumidifier installation that pairs seamlessly with your existing heating and air conditioning system. By integrating a whole-home unit into the current ductwork, we pull excess moisture from every room, helping your AC run more efficiently, protecting wood floors and furniture, and keeping indoor air healthier and more comfortable year-round.
Locally owned and backed by decades of HVAC expertise, HEP handles every phase—from load calculations and equipment selection to clean, code-compliant wiring and drainage—so you can relax while we fine-tune the perfect indoor climate. Upfront pricing, fast scheduling, and a workmanship guarantee mean you’ll feel the HEP difference long after the installation truck rolls away. Breathe easier, lower energy bills, and reclaim your space from muggy East Tennessee air—call us today and we’ll make moisture one less thing you have to worry about.
FAQs
Why should I add a whole-home dehumidifier to my existing HVAC system in Clinton’s climate?
Clinton and the surrounding Central Mississippi area experience long stretches of warm, humid weather. Indoor relative humidity above 55 % can lead to musty odors, mold growth, dust-mite proliferation, and a sticky, uncomfortable feeling even when the thermostat is set low. A properly sized whole-home dehumidifier removes the excess moisture that your air conditioner alone may not handle, creating a healthier living space, protecting wood floors and furniture from warping, and helping the AC cool more efficiently. Many homeowners see improved comfort at higher thermostat settings, which can translate into noticeable energy savings.
Can a dehumidifier be retrofitted to my current heating and cooling equipment without major modifications?
Yes. Most quality whole-home dehumidifiers are designed to integrate with existing forced-air HVAC systems. The unit is typically tied into the return or supply ductwork with a dedicated bypass or full-flow configuration, and condensate is routed to the same drain line your air conditioner uses. An installation usually involves adding a hanger kit, a short section of duct, a drain connection, and low-voltage control wiring—no need to replace your furnace or air handler. Our technicians verify airflow, static pressure, and electrical load to be sure the retrofit will not compromise your present equipment.
What size dehumidifier does my house need, and how is sizing determined?
Capacity is expressed in pints of moisture removed per day. To determine the proper size, we measure the home’s total conditioned square footage, ceiling heights, infiltration rate, number of occupants, and existing HVAC performance. For example, a 2,400 sq ft home in Clinton with average insulation typically needs a 70–90 pint/day unit, but homes with crawl spaces, large families, or high outdoor air ventilation may require 100–120 pint models. A professional load calculation prevents under-sizing (which leaves the house damp) and over-sizing (which wastes energy and short-cycles).
Will running a dehumidifier increase my utility bill?
A whole-home dehumidifier does consume electricity—usually 5–8 amps when operating—but it can reduce overall HVAC energy use. By pulling latent heat (moisture) out of the air, the AC doesn’t have to run as long or as cold to maintain comfort, and many homeowners raise the thermostat 2–3 °F. In net, most people see little to no increase in monthly costs, and some see a slight decrease during peak humidity months. High-efficiency ENERGY STAR® models and proper sizing maximize savings.
How long does installation take, and will my HVAC system be out of service?
A standard retrofit in an easily accessible attic, basement, or mechanical closet usually takes 4–6 hours. During that time we shut off power to the air handler for safety, but outages are typically limited to 30–60 minutes while we tie into the ductwork and wire the controls. We schedule installations around your convenience, place drop cloths to keep the work area clean, and test the system afterward to ensure both the HVAC and the new dehumidifier are running correctly before we leave.
What routine maintenance does a whole-home dehumidifier require?
Maintenance is minimal: 1) Replace or clean the internal air filter every 3–6 months. 2) Check and clear the condensate drain line at least twice per year to prevent clogs. 3) Vacuum the exterior coils annually to maintain efficiency. 4) Make sure the unit is level so sensors read correctly. During your annual HVAC tune-up, our technicians inspect refrigerant pressures, electrical connections, and the humidistat calibration. With basic care, modern units last 8–15 years and typically carry a 5-year parts warranty.