In different seasons, the air in our homes and workplaces changes. For instance, in winter, humidity levels drop significantly because the heating systems reduce the amount of moisture in the air. In summer, the air in our homes and offices becomes dense, pushing humidity levels through the roof. Both situations can be extremely uncomfortable and unpleasant.
That’s why it’s important to control humidity levels in your home and workplace in order to maintain comfort and good health. This is where dehumidifiers and air conditioners come in handy. A common question that homeowners ask is: Should I get a dehumidifier or air conditioner? In this article, we tell you why and when to use each of these devices.
Dehumidifier Vs Air Conditioner
What is a Dehumidifier?
A dehumidifier is a machine designed to remove moisture from the air for health and comfort purposes. By getting rid of excess moisture in the air, this device eliminates musty odor and prevents the growth of mildew in your house or office. It also makes the air more comfortable and less humid.
How Does It Work?
A dehumidifier sucks in the damp air and cools it to a temperature upon which the moisture condenses to become water. This water is collected in a drainage tank, which can be emptied either manually or automatically, depending on the type of dehumidifier you have. Unlike an air conditioner, a dehumidifier doesn’t produce warm air, which means it can be used in a room without external vents.
Reasons You Need a Dehumidifier
- Room is unpleasantly humid
- Musty odor in the house
- Visible mold in the house
- Excess moisture in the air
- Condensation covering the windows
- Wet stains on the walls and ceiling
What Is an Air Conditioner?
An air conditioner is an electronic machine designed to remove heat from the air and eject it from the room in order to cool the temperature down. The latest air conditioners can dispense the cool air to different rooms through ventilation.
How It Works
An air conditioner works the same way as a heat pump, but follows a cooling cycle. This machine comprises different parts including the evaporator, condenser, compressor, and expansion valve. It removes heat through a refrigerant, which is a fluid pumped out of the system through a chain of pipes. A refrigerant with hot air is expanded through the expansion valve and converted to gas.
This gas is then passed through the compressor where it’s converted to a high-pressure gas, which goes through the condenser coils and is propelled by fans that remove the heat from the refrigerant. The evaporator is the component that is responsible for throwing the cool air into the room.
Why You Need an Air Conditioner
- To avoid heat exhaustion because of heavy sweating
- Prevent dehydration because of continuous perspiration
- Enjoy relaxing sleep
- Prevent premature aging of furniture and other belongings
- Keep the air fresh
In Summary
Since both the dehumidifier and air conditioner offer many pros and cons with regard to controlling humidity levels in your house, your objective should determine which appliance you choose. However, it’s important to mention that a dehumidifier can help you to avoid overusing your air conditioner, thus reducing your air conditioning bills. That’s why you can learn to take advantage of both of them.
