Hardwood Floors

Hardwood Floors | Dehumidifier Installation | Heating and Air Conditioning | Sewanee

From the soaring bluff views to the historic cottages of Sewanee, indoor comfort matters just as much as the scenery outside. HEP’s seasoned technicians understand how Tennessee’s moist mountain air can warp hardwood floors, strain HVAC systems, and invite mold. That’s why we pair our award-winning heating and air expertise with precision dehumidifier installation, tailoring each unit’s capacity to your square footage, crawl space, and lifestyle. By drawing excess humidity out of the air before it settles into planks or ductwork, we help protect your investment and keep every breath fresh and clean.

Customers trust HEP for punctual arrivals, upfront pricing, and craftsmanship that respects the charm of Sewanee homes—from century-old cabins to contemporary retreats. When we leave, you’ll notice the difference immediately: quieter HVAC cycles, sturdier floors that no longer creak from moisture, and a thermostat that finally hits the mark without overworking the system. Ready to reclaim crisp, balanced air? Call HEP today and feel the mountain breeze indoors—minus the damp.

FAQs

Why are whole-home dehumidifiers especially important for hardwood-floor homes in Sewanee?

Sewanee’s warm, humid summers and frequent rain leave indoor air with high moisture levels. Excess humidity causes hardwood planks to swell, cup, or buckle, shortening their life and ruining the finish. A properly sized, professionally installed dehumidifier keeps indoor relative humidity in the ideal 35–50 % range, protecting your floors while also preventing mold, musty odors, and rust on HVAC components.

How does a dehumidifier integrate with my existing heating and air-conditioning system?

We install a ducted whole-home dehumidifier in line with your HVAC return or supply plenum. When humidity rises above the set point, the unit draws air from the ductwork, removes moisture with a refrigerated coil, then sends the dry, conditioned air back through your ducts. It has its own drain line to a condensate pump or floor drain, and it’s wired to your thermostat or a dedicated humidistat so it operates automatically without disturbing your heating or cooling cycles.

What size dehumidifier will my Sewanee home need?

Sizing depends on square footage, ceiling height, typical indoor RH, number of occupants, and how tight your building envelope is. Most homes in the Sewanee area need units rated between 70 and 120 pints per day. During your free on-site assessment we measure room volumes, inspect ductwork, and perform a load calculation to recommend the right capacity so the unit cycles properly, removes moisture efficiently, and doesn’t waste energy.

Will running a dehumidifier increase my energy bills?

A dehumidifier does use electricity, but it often lowers overall energy costs because drier air feels cooler. You can raise your summer thermostat setting by 2–3 °F and still feel comfortable, reducing A/C runtime. In winter, stable humidity prevents over-dry air, so you can lower the thermostat slightly without feeling chilly. In most Sewanee homes, homeowners notice little to no net increase in utility costs—some even see savings.

Can a dehumidifier help with allergies and indoor air quality?

Yes. Many common allergens in Sewanee homes—dust mites, mold spores, and mildew—thrive when RH exceeds 50 %. By maintaining optimal humidity, a dehumidifier limits their growth. The unit’s internal filter also captures dust and pet dander as air circulates through it. When combined with a high-MERV HVAC filter, you’ll breathe cleaner, healthier air all year.

What maintenance does a whole-home dehumidifier require?

Routine care is simple: replace or clean the air filter every 3–6 months, check the condensate drain line for clogs, and have the coil and fan inspected annually during your HVAC tune-up. We include dehumidifier checks in our maintenance plans for Sewanee residents, ensuring the unit stays efficient, quiet, and trouble-free for 10–15 years.