Existing HVAC Equipment
Existing HVAC Equipment | Dehumidifier Installation | Heating and Air Conditioning | Lynchburg
When the Blue Ridge humidity creeps inside, HEP’s HVAC experts are ready with precise dehumidifier installation that fits seamlessly into your existing heating and air conditioning system. We evaluate the unique moisture loads of Lynchburg homes, then size and position a whole-home unit that pulls excess water from the air before it ever reaches your living space. The result is a cooler-feeling house, lower energy bills, and protection for wood floors, furniture, and family health—all without the hassle of portable units.
From the first moisture reading to the final airflow test, our licensed technicians treat every project like a hometown job, arriving on time, explaining each step, and leaving your space spotless. If you’re noticing clammy rooms, musty smells, or persistent condensation, let HEP restore crisp, balanced comfort in just one visit. Call today, and breathe easy in every season.
FAQs
Why would a whole-home dehumidifier be beneficial in the Lynchburg climate?
Lynchburg experiences warm, humid summers and shoulder seasons with fluctuating moisture levels. Excess indoor humidity (anything above 50–55 %) can lead to mold growth, musty odors, warped hardwood floors, and a constant “sticky” feeling even when the air conditioner is running. A whole-home dehumidifier removes moisture from the air before it is distributed through your existing ductwork, improving comfort, protecting furnishings and building materials, and reducing the load on your A/C so it doesn’t have to run as long to reach the thermostat set-point.
Can a dehumidifier be added to my current HVAC system, or do I need new equipment?
In most cases, we can retrofit a compatible whole-home dehumidifier to your existing furnace or air-handler cabinet and tie it into the return plenum. The unit operates in parallel with your HVAC blower, extracting moisture before the conditioned air is delivered to supply ducts. We verify duct size, static pressure, and electrical capacity to ensure your present system can handle the extra airflow and amperage. If your equipment is older, undersized, or already near its performance limits, we will recommend minor upgrades (e.g., larger return drop, dedicated electrical circuit) so the dehumidifier works efficiently without restricting airflow.
What does the installation process involve and how long will it take?
A typical residential installation in Lynchburg takes 4–6 hours for most homes and rarely requires more than one workday. Our technicians will: 1) perform a load calculation and humidity audit, 2) place the dehumidifier in an accessible location such as a basement, crawlspace, or mechanical closet, 3) connect the unit to the return duct and, if desired, run a dedicated supply duct to high-humidity areas, 4) install a condensate drain line or condensate pump to a proper termination point, 5) wire the unit to its own 120 V or 240 V circuit, and 6) calibrate the onboard humidistat or integrate it with your smart thermostat. We leave your space clean and provide a walk-through of the new controls before we leave.
How much does a whole-home dehumidifier cost and what is the return on investment?
Installed prices in the Lynchburg market range from $2,200 to $3,800, depending on capacity (70–130 pints per day), duct modifications, and electrical work. While this is more than standalone portable units, a whole-home model typically lasts 10–15 years and covers the entire conditioned space. Customers often notice a 5–15 % reduction in cooling energy use because they can raise the thermostat by 2–3 °F without sacrificing comfort. The unit also helps prevent costly moisture damage and mitigates health issues related to mold and dust mites—benefits that pay for themselves over time.
What routine maintenance does the dehumidifier require?
1) Filter cleaning or replacement every 3–6 months (many models use a standard MERV 8 filter that can be vacuumed or swapped). 2) Inspect and rinse the internal coil annually to remove dust and biofilm so moisture can condense properly. 3) Check the condensate drain or pump for clogs each spring. 4) Verify the RH set-point (usually 45–50 %) and recalibrate the onboard sensor every 2–3 years. Our Comfort Club membership includes an annual inspection and coil cleaning for dehumidifiers so you don’t have to remember the details.
Will adding a dehumidifier affect my HVAC system’s efficiency or warranty?
When sized and installed correctly, a whole-home dehumidifier complements your air-conditioning system rather than competing with it. By removing latent heat (moisture) more efficiently, the A/C can focus on sensible cooling, often cycling less frequently. Electrical consumption for the dehumidifier itself is modest—about the same as a box fan—and is outweighed by the reduced runtime of the compressor. Because we follow manufacturer guidelines, we do not alter sealed refrigeration circuits or violate any conditions of your equipment warranty. All duct connections are sealed with mastic and meet ACCA Manual D standards, preserving airflow and static pressure within warranty parameters.