Excess Moisture
Excess Moisture | Dehumidifier Installation | Heating and Air Conditioning | Knoxville
Tennessee’s subtropical humidity can make even the most efficient HVAC system feel like it’s working overtime. HEP’s excess moisture experts pair their heating and air conditioning know-how with cutting-edge dehumidifier installation to pull sticky air out of basements, crawl spaces, and living areas all across Knoxville. By removing gallons of water from the air every day, our whole-home units prevent mold growth, protect wood floors and furniture, and let your air conditioner run less while keeping you cooler.
From the first moisture reading to the final system check, our licensed technicians handle everything in-house—no subcontractors, no surprises. We size the dehumidifier to your exact square footage, route the drainage for hands-off convenience, and back the job with HEP’s 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. Breathe healthier, feel lighter, and save on energy bills—discover why Knoxville homeowners trust HEP to dry things out for good.
FAQs
Why is controlling indoor humidity especially important in Knoxville?
East Tennessee’s warm summers and abundant rainfall can push indoor relative humidity well above the recommended 30-50 % range. Excess moisture encourages mold growth, dust-mite activity, wood warping, and musty odors. It also forces your air conditioner to run longer because it has to remove both heat and water vapor, which raises utility bills. A properly sized whole-home dehumidifier keeps humidity in the comfort zone, improving indoor air quality, protecting your home’s structure and furnishings, and lowering cooling costs.
How does a whole-home dehumidifier integrate with my existing heating and air-conditioning system?
A whole-home dehumidifier is installed in the supply or return ductwork near your air handler. As the HVAC fan circulates air, the dehumidifier pulls moisture-laden air across an internal cold coil that condenses water into a drain line, then reheats and returns the drier air to the duct system. The unit has its own humidistat, so it only runs when humidity exceeds the set point. Because it works in parallel with your AC, it can remove moisture even when the thermostat isn’t calling for cooling, giving you year-round humidity control without over-cooling the house.
What signs indicate I might need a professionally installed dehumidifier?
Common red flags include persistent condensation on windows, musty smells, visible mold or mildew, cupping hardwood floors, sticky or clammy air even at normal temperatures, high indoor humidity readings (above 55 %), or family members experiencing allergies that improve outside the home. If you run portable dehumidifiers constantly or notice your AC can’t keep up, a whole-home solution is likely more effective and energy-efficient.
How is the correct dehumidifier size determined for my home?
Our technicians perform a load calculation that considers square footage, ceiling height, typical occupancy, infiltration rates, and existing HVAC capacity. We also measure current humidity levels and inspect crawl spaces or basements for additional moisture sources. Residential whole-home units are rated in pints of moisture removed per day; Knoxville homes typically need 70-130 pint models. Proper sizing ensures the unit cycles correctly—too small won’t solve the problem, while too large wastes energy and can short-cycle.
What should I expect during the installation process and how long does it take?
Most installations are completed in one day. We begin with a moisture assessment and confirm placement in the mechanical room, crawl space, or attic. The crew mounts the dehumidifier on vibration-isolating brackets, ties it into the supply/return ductwork, and runs a dedicated condensate drain with an optional pump. An independent electrical circuit and humidistat are installed to meet code. Before leaving, we test for proper airflow, set the target humidity, and show you how to adjust settings. Your home will be left clean and fully operational the same day.
What maintenance and warranty coverage come with a whole-home dehumidifier?
Routine upkeep is simple: replace or clean the unit’s air filter every 6-12 months, check the condensate line for clogs, and wipe the sensor if dust accumulates. During your annual HVAC tune-up we’ll inspect coils, blower, and controls to ensure peak efficiency. Most leading manufacturers offer 5-year parts warranties, and our Knoxville service team provides a one-year labor warranty plus priority scheduling for any issues. Enrolling in our Comfort Club includes scheduled maintenance visits and extended warranty options to keep your dehumidifier performing for 10-15 years.