Dehumidifiers are the most desired devices when the scorching summer heat is advancing, but they can also prove to be a very useful tool in the winter season. Let's analyse the functions of air conditioners and dehumidifiers to find out how to achieve thermal comfort and improve air quality in the home.
Does a dehumidifier cool a room in summer?
In order to assess which is the best choice between an air conditioner and a dehumidifier, a clarification is needed first.
- The traditional air conditioner is the device that, through the conditioned air generated, merely reduces the temperature inside the room in which it is installed.
- Its main function is therefore to cool the air, but it does not allow a specific temperature to be set.
- Cooling occurs through the regulation of its fans.
- Modern air conditioning systems, on the other hand, integrate both the air conditioner mode and the dehumidifier function.
This is an important distinction because air conditioners and dehumidifiers are often confused in common parlance, but as we have just seen, they do not necessarily indicate the same device.
Now we can see what happens when dehumidifier mode is activated.
- Dehumidification removes moisture from the air.
- The removal of moisture helps to improve the air quality in the room.
- The advantage of a system with both air conditioning and dehumidification function is thus twofold.
- The room is both cool and free of excess humidity.
To set the air conditioner as a dehumidifier, simply press the button with the drop symbol on the supplied remote control.
Can a dehumidifier replace an air conditioner?
Lowering humidity is a particular need during the summer, especially in sultry geographical areas and in built-up areas. When the dehumidifier is active, it is important to make sure that the windows are tightly closed to prevent outside humidity from entering the indoor environment, thus nullifying the well-being achieved.
Summer, however, is not the only season in which to operate the dehumidifier. It is also useful in winter when the humidity level may risk being too high in the presence of certain factors such as:
- water vapour giving rise to condensation in spaces such as bathrooms and kitchens where windows cannot be opened for air recirculation due to weather conditions;
- poor thermal insulation due to structural problems that lead to thermal bridges that facilitate heat loss;
- the position of some rooms facing north, perhaps, or with little exposure to light.
A high incidence of humidity can lead to the formation of mould, pathogens and other microorganisms that are harmful to our health. The use of a dehumidifier is accompanied, as mentioned above, by other daily habits such as air exchange to eliminate excessive water vapour.
How many degrees for the dehumidifier?
When activating the dehumidifier function, it is good to bear in mind that the set temperature of the device should be neither too high nor too low. Indeed, remember that the dehumidifier contributes to the ventilation of the room and this affects the degrees recorded in the surrounding space.
The ideal temperature is around 68° F, in line with the temperature of 66.2°/68° F, which is already able to ensure pleasant comfort. This lowers the humidity level and prevents the room from overheating.
- In a room that is too hot, the air tends to dry out, leading to problems for the human respiratory system and the onset of irritation.
- In a room that is too cold, mould is more likely to form and spread.
The healthiness of the home can be constantly monitored thanks to home automation devices such as the smart thermostat.
- In addition to facilitating heating operations, smart thermostats are designed to measure air quality and alert users in case of anomalies.
- Information is shared with mobile phone notifications for constant control even remotely.
- The optimum humidity level should be in the range of 45% to 55%.
What's better, an air conditioner or a dehumidifier?
Going back to the initial question, it can be concluded that a dehumidifier is the most appropriate solution for total benefit.
It is therefore worthwhile, for those who do not already have one, to think about installing quality air conditioners with integrated humidifier functionality.
Their advanced technology also reduces energy consumption for substantial savings in the bill, both in summer and winter.
