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What are the Best Air Conditioners for a Humid Climate?

 

Humid climate imageHigh Efficiency Air Conditioning from Research to Installation

The Practical Results

Air conditioners:

  • Cool the air
  • Dehumidify the air
  • In wet climates air conditioners need to lower the humidity as well as the temperature.
  • Existing air conditioners do not do that very well.
  • Insulated low restriction duct systems with metal elbows and “Ys” are superior to other systems.

Getting the Right Replacement Air Conditioner

  1. Always replace both the outside unit and the inside coil.
  2. Use a fan motor designed for humid climate operation (such as the Concept3™ in wet mode)
  3. For maximum cost effectiveness take advantage of utility rebates
  4. Have the contractor follow the steps in “Proper Installation PDF”

The Research

  • Hugh Henderson and the team at the Florida Solar Energy Center documented that air conditioners dehumidify much less than expected.
  • Running the fan at the end of the cycle is very bad. It pumps moisture back into the building.
  • Running a continuous fan is even worse.

Moisture in the building

There are multiple reasons for high indoor moisture. Some include:

  1. Showering, cooking, indoor plants, lots of people, aquariums
  2. Moist outside air leaks in and raises the humidity
  3. Plumbing leaks, roof leaks, improper window flashing, improper exterior wall treatment (Builders should use Builder's Guide to Mixed-Humid Climates By Joseph Lstiburek.)

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