Excess Moisture
Excess Moisture | Dehumidifier Installation | Heating and Air Conditioning
Tired of clammy rooms, musty odors, or that sticky feeling even when the thermostat says everything’s fine? HEP’s experts zero in on the hidden culprit—excess humidity—by pairing state-of-the-art HVAC knowledge with precision dehumidifier installation. Our team evaluates airflows, crawl spaces, and living areas to match you with a unit that quietly pulls moisture from the air while lowering utility costs and protecting your home from mold, warped wood, and allergy-triggering contaminants.
From the first phone call to final walkthrough, you’ll notice the HEP difference: punctual technicians, upfront pricing, and tidy workmanship that respects your space. Enjoy a drier, healthier home, safeguard your investment, and reclaim true indoor comfort—all thanks to professional dehumidifier installation designed specifically for East Tennessee’s unpredictable climate.
FAQs
Why do I need a whole-home dehumidifier if I already have air conditioning?
While an air conditioner removes some moisture as it cools the air, its primary job is temperature control. During mild-temperature, high-humidity days—or when the thermostat is set higher to save energy—the AC may not run long enough to pull out sufficient moisture. A dedicated dehumidifier targets humidity first, keeping indoor relative humidity in the ideal 40–55 % range, preventing musty odors, mold growth, condensation on windows, and a clammy feeling that can persist even when the house is cool.
How does a dehumidifier integrate with my existing HVAC system?
A whole-home (ducted) dehumidifier is typically installed in the return-air plenum or connected to its own bypass ductwork. Humid air is drawn through the dehumidifier, moisture is condensed and drained away, and the dried air is reheated slightly and sent back into the supply ducts. The unit is wired to its own humidistat or to your smart thermostat so it operates automatically whenever humidity exceeds the set point, independent of the heating or cooling cycles.
What are the signs that my home has excess humidity?
Common indicators include persistent damp or musty odors, visible mold or mildew on walls and ceilings, condensation on windows or ductwork, cupping or warping of wood floors, peeling paint or wallpaper, a clammy sensation on skin, and increased allergy or asthma symptoms. A hygrometer reading consistently above 60 % RH indoors is a clear quantitative sign you need dehumidification.
Can a dehumidifier help reduce energy bills and improve comfort?
Yes. Drier air feels cooler, so many homeowners raise the thermostat 2–4 °F after installation while maintaining the same comfort level, cutting cooling costs by 5–15 %. Removing moisture also reduces the latent load on your air conditioner, allowing it to cycle less often and operate more efficiently. Improved humidity control protects wood furniture, musical instruments, electronics, and the home’s structure, helping avoid expensive repairs caused by mold and rot.
What size dehumidifier do I need, and will a professional assessment be required?
Sizing depends on square footage, typical moisture load, insulation levels, and the home’s air-tightness. Whole-home units range from 70 to 200+ pints per day. A certified HVAC technician will perform a humidity audit, evaluate crawlspaces and attic ventilation, and use Manual S or manufacturer sizing guidelines to recommend the right capacity. Proper sizing is critical—an undersized unit runs nonstop without achieving set points, while an oversized one short-cycles and wastes energy.
How much maintenance does a whole-home dehumidifier require, and what is its expected lifespan?
Maintenance is minimal: replace or clean the air filter every 3–6 months, ensure the condensate drain or pump remains clear, and have the coil and blower inspected annually during your routine HVAC service. Most quality units carry 5- or 6-year manufacturer warranties and last 10–15 years with proper care. Because they run fewer hours than AC compressors and don’t face outdoor weather, their service life is often longer than traditional cooling equipment.