Energy Bills
Energy Bills | Dehumidifier Installation | Heating and Air Conditioning | Hillsboro
Enjoy Hillsboro’s warm summers without the sticky air that comes with them. HEP’s Energy Bills Heating and Air Conditioning team specializes in precise dehumidifier installation that pulls excess moisture out of your home, protects wooden floors and furniture, and helps your HVAC system cool more efficiently. Lower humidity means you can set the thermostat a few degrees higher, cutting down monthly energy costs while keeping every room refreshingly comfortable.
Our licensed technicians arrive on time, evaluate your home’s square footage and existing ductwork, and fit a high-performance unit that runs quietly in the background. From the first consultation to post-install walkthrough, you’ll get transparent pricing, respectful service, and the peace of mind that your indoor air is cleaner, healthier, and perfectly balanced for Hillsboro’s ever-changing climate. Call HEP today and feel the difference dryness makes.
FAQs
How can installing a whole-home dehumidifier lower my energy bills in Hillsboro’s climate?
When indoor humidity stays below about 50%, sweat evaporates more quickly and the air feels several degrees cooler. That means you can set your thermostat 2-4°F higher in summer without sacrificing comfort, which cuts air-conditioning run time and electricity use. In winter, drier air allows your heating system to run shorter cycles because moisture no longer soaks up heat. A properly sized dehumidifier also keeps coils and ductwork free of excess moisture, helping your HVAC equipment maintain peak efficiency year-round.
What size dehumidifier do I need for my Hillsboro home, and how is it determined?
Sizing is based on square footage, ceiling height, typical indoor moisture load, and the tightness of your home’s envelope. During a free in-home assessment, our technicians measure each level, inspect crawlspaces and attics, and use hygrometers to record baseline humidity. We then calculate pint-per-day removal requirements using ACCA Manual H guidelines. Most Hillsboro single-family homes fall into the 70-100-pint class, but larger or multi-story houses may need 120-170 pints or multiple units. Correct sizing prevents short-cycling, maximizes energy savings, and extends the life of the equipment.
Will a dehumidifier work with my existing HVAC system, or do I need an upgrade?
In nearly every case we can integrate a whole-home dehumidifier with your current forced-air furnace or heat pump. The unit is tied into the return plenum, pulling moist air across its coil and draining condensate to a nearby line or floor drain. A dedicated controller or your smart thermostat manages humidity independently of heating or cooling calls. If your ductwork is undersized, leaking, or heavily restricted, we may recommend minor modifications, but full HVAC replacement is rarely necessary.
How long does professional dehumidifier installation take and will it disrupt my heating and AC?
Most installations are completed in one day (4-6 hours). Our crew secures the dehumidifier in the mechanical room, connects ductwork, runs the condensate line, adds an overflow safety switch, and programs your humidity controller. Your furnace and AC are only shut off for about 30 minutes while we tie into the plenum, so comfort disruption is minimal. After installation we perform a start-up test, demonstrate the controls, and clean the workspace before leaving.
What kind of maintenance does a whole-home dehumidifier require?
Plan on changing or washing the unit’s air filter every 6-12 months (more often if you have pets or allergies). The condensate drain line should be flushed annually to prevent clogs. During your spring or fall HVAC tune-up, our technician will inspect the evaporator coil, check refrigerant pressure, verify blower performance, and recalibrate the humidity set point. With routine care, quality dehumidifiers last 10-15 years.
Are there incentives or rebates in Hillsboro or Oregon for installing energy-efficient humidity control equipment?
Yes. Energy Trust of Oregon currently offers cash incentives for qualifying whole-home dehumidifiers installed by a Trade Ally contractor—typically $100–$200 per unit. Portland General Electric and Northwest Natural occasionally provide bonus rebates during summer efficiency campaigns. You may also claim a state Residential Energy Tax Credit if your dehumidifier meets ENERGY STAR® criteria and is paired with high-efficiency HVAC upgrades. Our office handles all paperwork and will apply eligible rebates to your invoice up front, so you don’t wait for a check.