The summer weather in my local area is absolutely brutal.
Despite the date on the calendar, we are faced with extreme heat and humidity by the end of March.
The high temperatures and excessive moisture are a problem until late October. The cost of running the air conditioner is a huge drain on the budget. I’m always looking for ways to improve comfort and trim expenses. I’ve taken every opportunity to tighten up the house and prevent energy waste. I make sure to close the curtains during the day to keep the glare of the sun from heating up the house. I’ve installed ceiling fans to help push the heat up toward the ceiling and minimize the workload of the air conditioner. One of the most beneficial investments was the installation of a whole-home dehumidifier. I first consulted with a local HVAC contractor and discussed the benefits of the various makes and models of dehumidifiers on the market. I wanted a unit that would operate quietly and require very little maintenance. I’d tried portable dehumidifiers and found that they are constant work. Failing to empty the reservoir regularly resulted in standing water and a source for contaminants. I was also hoping the dehumidifier would allow me to adjust moisture levels to preference. Incorporating the dehumidifier into the cooling system has significantly improved the comfort of the home. I’ve been able to raise the thermostat setting by several degrees and yet the indoor environment feels cooler. Because the air conditioner isn’t running as often or for as long of cycles, I’ve seen a drastic decrease in my monthly electric bill. Plus, the air conditioner experiences less wear and tear and should last longer and operate more reliably.