Whole-home Dehumidifiers
Whole-home Dehumidifiers | Dehumidifier Installation | Heating and Air Conditioning | Hixson
When sticky Tennessee summers seep inside, HEP keeps Hixson homes crisp and comfortable with whole-home dehumidifiers that integrate seamlessly into your existing HVAC system. Our certified pros evaluate your square footage, ductwork, and moisture levels, then recommend a system that quietly pulls gallons of water from the air every day—no buckets, no fuss, just balanced humidity and fresher, healthier indoor air.
From the first inspection to flawless dehumidifier installation, HEP handles every detail. Expect prompt technicians, transparent pricing, and a tidy workspace when we leave. Lower humidity not only protects wood floors, furniture, and electronics; it also helps your air conditioner run more efficiently, lowering utility bills while reducing allergens and musty odors. Ready to breathe easy year-round? Call or click today and discover why Hixson families trust HEP for comfort that sticks—in all the right ways.
FAQs
Why should Hixson homeowners consider installing a whole-home dehumidifier?
Hixson’s warm, humid summers can push indoor relative humidity well above the recommended 30–50 %. Excess moisture encourages mold growth, dust mites, wood warping, and that constantly ‘clammy’ feeling. A whole-home dehumidifier removes this excess moisture as air circulates through your HVAC ductwork, protecting your home’s structure, improving indoor-air quality, and making your cooling system feel more effective—often allowing you to raise the thermostat a few degrees and save energy.
How does a whole-home dehumidifier integrate with my existing heating and air-conditioning system?
The unit is installed in line with your home’s return-air ductwork—usually just before the air handler or furnace cabinet. As your HVAC fan runs, house air passes through the dehumidifier’s coil where moisture condenses and drains away. The dried air is then delivered back to the supply plenum and pushed throughout the home. A dedicated control panel or smart thermostat lets you set your desired humidity level, and most models can be programmed to run only when needed to maximize energy savings.
What size dehumidifier does my house need?
Capacity is rated in pints of water removed per day (PPD) or in cubic feet per minute (CFM) of airflow. For most Hixson homes, 70–120 PPD units cover 2,000–3,500 sq ft, but larger or more humid homes may require 130 PPD or higher. An in-home assessment considers square footage, insulation levels, basement or crawlspace conditions, number of occupants, and existing HVAC tonnage. Our technicians perform a load calculation to make sure the selected model maintains 45–50 % RH without excessive cycling, ensuring both comfort and efficiency.
What is involved in the installation process and how long does it take?
A typical retrofit takes 4–6 hours. We begin by verifying electrical capacity (units need a dedicated 120 V or 240 V circuit). We then cut and seal duct openings, mount the dehumidifier, run a condensate drain to a nearby floor drain or condensate pump, and connect low-voltage controls to your thermostat or a standalone humidistat. Finally, we test for proper airflow, calibrate humidity settings, and walk you through the controls. Because the work is largely confined to mechanical areas, household disruption is minimal.
How much maintenance will my whole-home dehumidifier need?
Maintenance is simple and usually aligns with your regular HVAC service visits: • Replace or clean the dehumidifier’s air filter every 3–6 months. • Inspect and flush the condensate drain annually to prevent clogs. • Check the refrigerant coil and fan wheel for dust buildup. • Verify humidity-setpoint calibration with a handheld hygrometer. Most tasks take only a few minutes, and our Comfort Club members receive filter changes and inspections as part of their plan.
Will a whole-home dehumidifier increase my energy bills?
The unit does consume electricity—about the same as a small window AC—but many homeowners see a net decrease in monthly costs. By lowering indoor humidity, you’ll feel cooler at higher thermostat settings, allowing you to reduce your AC run time. Drier air also eases the load on your air conditioner’s evaporator coil, improving overall efficiency and prolonging equipment life. ENERGY STAR-rated models remove more moisture per kilowatt-hour and often qualify for local EPB or TVA rebates, further offsetting operating costs.