Why Your AC Is Cooling But Not Removing Humidity - And What to Do About It

Key Takeaways:

• Yes, air conditioning does help with indoor humidity levels, but only when it’s functioning correctly.
  
• If your air conditioning is cooling but not removing humidity, the issue may be with size, maintenance, or system settings.
  
• Professional HVAC care and the right unit size are essential for both comfort and moisture control.
  

If your AC is cooling but the air still feels muggy, you are not alone. One of the most common complaints homeowners have during hot months is that the AC is cooling but not removing humidity. A lot of people assume that cooler air means drier air, but that’s not always the case.
Continue reading to learn how AC and humidity interact, why you might still be sweating indoors, and what you can do to better control your indoor humidity levels.

Does AC Remove Humidity?

In short- yes, but only to a point. Air conditioners do help with indoor humidity levels by pulling moisture out of the air as it cools. When warm, humid air passes over the evaporator coil, the coil’s cold surface causes moisture to condense in, just like a cold glass of water on a warm day. That water then drains out of the system. But if your AC is not functioning properly, or if it’s not the right size for your home, it might not be removing enough moisture to make your space feel comfortable.

Why Your AC Is Not Removing Humidity

If your home’s indoor humidity levels feel off the charts even though it’s technically cool, here are some possible reasons:

• Oversized AC Unit: If your AC is too powerful for your space, it will cool the room quickly and shut off before it has a chance to humidify the air. The result? A cool but clammy home.
  
• Dirty Coils or Blocked Drain Line: If the evaporator coil is covered in dust or the condensate drain is clogged, your system can’t do its job properly. That means your AC may not be reducing humidity, even if it seems to be cooling normally.
  
• Fan setting Left on ‘On’ Instead of ‘Auto’: Keeping your fan in the “on” position can actually push moist air back into the space during off cycles. The “auto” setting is usually the better choice for humidity control.
  
• Low Refrigerant Levels: If your refrigerant is low, the AC system may not get cold enough for moisture to condense. This issue is often behind the complaint that the AC is cooling but not removing humidity.
  

How to Fix It

If your AC isn’t lowering your indoor humidity levels, here are a few simple steps you can take:

1. Double-check your thermostat settings - set the fan to “auto” instead of “on.”
2. Schedule a professional tune-up that involves cleaning the coils, checking refrigerant, and clearing drain lines can restore proper function.
   
3. Add a dehumidifier - In high-humidity areas, your AC might need some help from a standalone or integrated dehumidifier in controlling indoor humidity levels.
   
4. Upgrade your AC - If your unit is oversized or aged, consider replacing it with a system that’s better matched to your home’s current needs.
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AC and Humidity Should Work Together

Your AC should help reduce humidity, but if it’s not doing the job, it could lead to other issues like musty smells, mold growth, and poor energy efficiency. Whether your AC is not removing humidity or just isn’t making your home feel the way it should, Mint Home can help. We can provide you with a free instant quote and recommend solutions that actually make a difference in your home’s comfort.