When are Mini-Split Systems the Right Choice?

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Mini-Split systems use heat pump technology. Basically, heat pumps combine an evaporator and a condenser, using puron refrigerant and phase change to provide heating and cooling. They are essentially a high efficiency air conditioner that can also run in reverse to heat the home. The condenser is usually located outdoors. It distributes refrigerant through copper tubing, which is connected to one or more indoor outlets (evaporator + air handler).
Mini-splits are particularly efficient when compared to other HVAC systems, because they “recycle” energy, to some extent. Also, they use electricity instead of burning gas, which can be advantageous.
That being said, mini-split systems wont work for every home out there. They perform well assuming that the heating/cooling load (AKA heating/cooling needs or rate of heat loss/gain) is not too high. In other words, they should be used in conjunction with good sealing and insulation, and they are ideal for smaller homes and apartments, or homes where only certain rooms need heating/cooling.

This also works the other way around. When a particular room or smaller home is very tight and insulated, any MSHP (mini-split heat pump) you install in that room will likely be much more than that room actually needs. They only make them in so many incremental sizes. With a well designed forced air system you can direct just the right amounts of energy at a room. With a mini split system you just need to choose the one that fits the best. This being said, they are starting to come out with well made self-modulating mini splits that can adjust according to the needs of the room. Although any modulating unit (gas furnace or heat pump etc) does not work well with a ducted system, they can with a wall or ceiling mounted ductless mini split unit.

Pros
1. Highly efficiency in the right application.
2. No gas required.
3. No ducts required! Mini-split systems distribute heat by blowing it into a room straight from the miniature heat pump coils located on any rooms’ upper wall or ceiling. No ducts mean less loss, no duct leakage, no future maintenance associated with duct work, and less variables for the average HVAC contractor to get wrong.
4. Despite the above #3, mini-splits can use a forced air system instead, using a central air handler and a duct system. If designed right, they can be used to efficiently heat/cool very low load homes.
5. Ease of Install: Mini-split systems are much easier to install than a well designed and installed forced air HVAC system. Since they are not limited by the existing duct system (which is often poorly engineered and provides uneven heating/cooling), they can be directed to the rooms/zones that really need it.
6. If your whole home is heated by electric heat pumps, you can call PG&E and have them switch you over to a cheaper rate plan associated with electric home heating. This offers more breathing room at your baseline usage level before it switches you over to a higher tier rate. This also works for a ducted heat pump system.
7. Any form of efficient electric heat further justifies the install of a solar PV system on your roof. You don’t need to pay PG&E anything other than the minimal average costs associated with gas cooking, gas dryer or a stove/oven.

Cons
1. A single MSHP generally wont be able to handle a large, poorly sealed/insulated home in a hot/cold climate. Bear in mind, even though a powerful HVAC system can handle this situation, it’s going to use a ton of energy. Regardless of the heating/cooling technology, you simply cannot design a system well enough to compensate for a lack of insulation and sealing. Both a heating/cooling system design and improvements to the retention of the home need to be done in conjunction with each other.
2. Electricity is a bit more expensive than gas, which can slightly offset the efficiency gain on your utility bill.
3. Although mini-splits are often advertised as being able to split 8 times, there is a huge efficiency loss when you run that many refrigerant lines, over that much distance.  1-3 splits is a more realistic, efficient and manageable option.
4. Cannot be fine-tuned as well as expertly engineered duct systems. However, well designed forced air duct systems are very rare, and it’s much easier to install a MSHP than to completely overhaul your ducts.
5. Any home larger than around 1000 square feet will benefit more from having a well designed forced air system. There are just too many rooms that are too spread apart to justify numerous mini splits indoor cassettes. Always be on the lookout for that one garage renovation or upstairs room that is hard to run a duct to. These situations are where mini splits shine the most.

Case Studies: Due to the blooming success of heat pump systems, several recent case studies have been performed. They have shown varied but overall success using MSHPs, even in larger houses in relatively hot/cold climates. In one example, two MSHPs were installed in a two-story house, one for each floor. During winter, the 1st floor MSHP was doing the majority of the work, due to thermal buoyancy (heat rising), and during summer, the 2nd floor MSHP did most of the cooling. In both cases, the MSHPs performed well, and never reached maximum load, although they were in almost constant use during summer and winter.
One nice thing they discovered is that oversized MSHPs are usually not a problem, assuming they modulate their own capacity properly, and their target zones are large enough to provide the correct return for the temperature sensors. In fact, it turns out that oversizing can actually be beneficial, since they reach optimal efficiency when running at low capacity. This is not the case for traditional HVAC systems, which, when oversized, are inefficient and uncomfortable.
So, this is an example of how mini-splits can be used cleverly and efficiently. However, it should be stated that purchasing two MSHPs for a home isn’t cheap. Also, efficiency is highly dependent on proper installation and programming, and other aspects of the home’s performance. Occupant operation also has a significant impact.

Conclusion: Mini-split systems are great when you want to heat/cool a few select rooms, or a small, well insulated home, and you don’t want to have duct work done. They are especially great if you don’t have the space to install ducts in the building or in a room, or if you want to condition a room or two that can’t fit properly sized ducts. In these situations, they are relatively convenient to install, and highly efficient.
That being said, we always recommend air sealing and insulation as a first priority for any home, regardless of the type of heating/cooling system. Optimal efficiency will not be achieved without taking these steps first. For example, if you’re going to install a new furnace/AC, it should be done at the same time as other upgrades, to ensure proper sizing and distribution.

If you have any questions, contact us and we can help you decide if the Mini-Split system is right for your home.

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6 Ways to Cut Your Energy Bill This Summer

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Energy bills can skyrocket during the summer. On average, it costs around $280 per year to run air-conditioning at home. Divided over the hottest months of the year—June, July, and August—that's about $93.33 per month just for air-conditioning. Don't let your increased energy bill keep you from taking that much-needed summer vacation. Here are some easy ways to cut your electric bill this summer so you can stay cool and still have money left over.

1. Clean the filter in the air conditioner

When the filter is clogged, it has an effect on how efficiently your air conditioner runs, not to mention on the quality of air you're breathing. It's not just a beginning-of-the-summer task. Keeping the filter clean on a regular basis is important. A little vacuuming and sanitizing can go a long way.

2. Install window film

If you're not someone who wants to shut the blinds and close the curtains during the summer, installing insulating window films can allow you to enjoy the beautiful sunshine and view while still conserving energy. The films lessen heat gain, which, in turn, will help make your home feel cooler so you won't have to run the air conditioner as much. No need to call in a professional. Plenty of stores sell kits so you can easily do it yourself.

3. Install a programmable thermostat

You can set the air conditioner for one temperature when you're home and another for when you're out of the house. This can save you quite a bit of money, not to mention you won't have to fuss with it by manually changing it all the time.

4. Use a draft blocker

Depending on the type of exterior doors you have, not using a draft blocker could be the equivalent of leaving your air conditioner running while your windows are open a crack. It's basically like tossing dollar bills out your window. Draft blockers aren't expensive at all, and you can even save yourself money and make them yourself.

5. Run a fan

Fans, ceiling or otherwise, are cheaper to run than an air conditioner. If you're going to be sitting in one room, such as in the living room watching TV, consider turning off the AC and running the fan instead. You'll still be able to stay cool, just for a lower price.

6. Open a window

Opening a window at night will give your AC a breather and you can take advantage of the cooler air. If it's still too warm for you, think about installing a window-mounted fan. It allows you to either bring the night air in or push hot air out, depending on your preference. The fans are easy to take in and out as needed.

Some of the above might seem like a lot of work, but you'll be happy you made the extra effort once your energy bill comes and it's lower than you thought possible.

Get a tune-up HVAC unit, keep it running smooth this summer

Ask about our maintenance plans

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Signs Your AC Unit Needs To Be Replaced

On average, air conditioning units last between 10-15 years. When you first make the investment, a decade or longer feels like a long time. It goes by fast, though, and some AC units won’t make it much longer than the 10 years.

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In many cases, air conditioning units start showing signs of wear and tear before they need to be replaced. There are those unfortunate homeowners who wake up one day to no air, but usually, there are things that start happening. By recognizing what these signs are, you can prepare yourself for the purchase of a new AC system.

Let’s explore six signs that your air conditioning is on its last leg.

1. No Cold Air

At some point, your air conditioning might stop blowing out cold air. If your AC system isn’t old, it could be an issue with the thermostat or a failed compressor. If you’re just coming off the winter and turning on your central air for the first time, your system might need coolant. But it’s also possible that you could need a new AC installation.

2. Weak Air Flow

If there is little air flow coming through your vents, this is a cause for concern. A common reason for this is a failing compressor. Though compressors are expensive, they are worth fixing if your AC unit is newer.

If you notice that some rooms are receiving cold air while others are not, it’s probably something with your ductwork. Over time, debris can get stuck in your ducts and obstruct airflow. If this is the case, a good ductwork cleaning should do the trick. Plus, you and your family can enjoy better health.

3. Thermostat Problems

The thermostat controls the temperature in the home, so if your rooms aren’t being adequately cooled, it could be with the thermostat rather than the unit itself. One way to tell if this is the case is if some rooms are cold while others have the same temperature. Don’t forget to replace the batteries, too!

4. Moisture in Unusual Places

Moisture or water leaks around your AC unit is can indicate a potential problem. It might be refrigerant leaking, which can cause serious health effects to you and your family. Small pools of water may indicate that the drain tube is clogged or broken. While this isn’t a serious, urgent issue, it should be addressed by an AC service sooner than later.

5. Strange Noises

Air conditioning units have to work hard in the hot, humid, deep south, so you might hear some unusual sounds from this increased production. However, sounds like squealing, grating or grinding may indicate that something is wrong inside the unit.

Fortunately, not all noises are necessarily a sign of something serious. Squealing, for instance, may just be telling you that a part in your AC unit needs more lubrication. This can be taken care of quickly and affordably.

6. Odd Smells

A foul smell coming from your air conditioning vents may mean that the unit’s wire insulation has gone bad. A musty smell usually means that there is mold inside the ductwork. Since mold can have adverse health effects, it’s important to call an HVAC service to clean out your ducts. The smell will be gone, and you can enjoy a cleaner home.

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Top 10 Reasons To Get Professional HVAC Help

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Professional HVAC maintenance is the best and least expensive way to ensure sure that your heating and cooling equipment runs safely and efficiently year round. While there are some minor things homeowners can do, you should know when it’s time to hire a professional HVAC contractor.

Making sure that the system is fixed correctly, keeping your HVAC units running with high energy efficiency, improving your indoor air quality, and giving you peace of mind are just a few of the benefits of hiring a professional.

Here’s a more in depth look at the main reasons you should seek professional help:

1. Fix Your HVAC System Correctly

Certified HVAC Technicians are well trained on a variety of air conditioning and heating systems. They have spent years working on many types of HVAC repair issues. They can fix any problems you face and even diagnose other issues that you may not have noticed. 

HVAC technology is continually advancing every year – professional HVAC technicians can find what’s causing malfunctions and correct it right away.

2. HVAC Companies Have Insurance

When you hire an HVAC contractor, their technicians are covered by liability insurance, which helps to protect both you and them. If they happen to get injured on the job, you won’t be held liable.

While this may seem like something that won’t occur, accidents can and do happen, and you could end up paying for it if you hire an amateur to save a few bucks.

3. They Will Keep You Up To Date

HVAC professionals know a lot regarding the new technologies and advancements in the fields of heating, air conditioning and ventilation.

By speaking with an HVAC professional, you will learn the most efficient and up-to-date ways to heat, cool, and ventilate your home. 

They will also keep you informed of different HVAC upgrades and modifications, such as smart thermostats, HEPA filtration, dampers, and humidification systems.

4. Help in Emergencies

If your HVAC system stops working, it can be very important to get your system back up and running quickly. A professional HVAC technician will be able to properly get your air conditioning systems or heat system back up and running in no time.

Heating and cooling systems can be dangerous, which is why it is important to schedule annual, or bi-annual maintenance. Contact a professional if you suspect any safety issues.

5. Preventative Maintenance

Certified HVAC professionals work efficiently and help maintain your HVAC system(s) in a very smooth and preventative manner. 

They ensure that all facets of your HVAC system, including heating, air conditioning, ventilation, and air quality are maintained properly by the HVAC experts in the most efficient and professional way.

Preventative Maintenance is much less expensive than reacting to an HVAC problem due to lack of maintenance.

6. Provide Top Notch Customer Service

Your HVAC professional should provide you with not only professional work and equipment, but also excellent customer service! 

Our mission at Harbin Heating and Air is to exceed our customers expectations. We do this by treating your HVAC system as if it was our own. 

We want to provide you with the best service to earn both your trust and future business. The best compliment we get is your 100% satisfaction and your referral to others.

7. Identify the Correct HVAC System for your Home

When it comes to replacing your system, your certified HVAC Professional will know the correct system to install based on the design, layout, and the size of your home. 

HVAC Professionals are up to date on both code and latest equipment technologies to ensure the safety and comfort of your home.

The correct HVAC system should not only run more efficiently than your previous system, but with the right equipment, should provide better air quality as well.

8. Safety

For your personal safety and the safety of your family and home, it is extremely important and recommended that if your do not fully understand your HVAC system that you call your HVAC Professional.

With natural gas, electricity, ventilation, and emissions we do not recommend the inexperienced homeowner to try to DIY your HVAC System. There are so many variables that can affect your family and home’s safety. Call a pro.

9. Proper Diagnostics

It can be both dangerous and costly to mis-diagnose your HVAC systems issues.  For these reasons we recommend calling a Professional HVAC Technician for your HVAC needs and maintenance. 

They will be able to properly diagnose and troubleshoot your system safely, efficiently, and correctly to ensure that your system is running properly.

10. Air Quality

As you may know, the air quality is very important to your family’s health and comfort. HVAC Professionals have equipment and the proper training to be able to measure and improve you air quality. 

With the proper equipment, maintenance, and tuning, your HVAC technician will be able to provide you with excellent air quality.

Recap

Why Choose A Professional HVAC Contractor

• They will get your HVAC System running properly

• They have liability insurance in case something goes wrong

• They will keep you up to date on the latest HVAC equipment

• They will help you in emergencies

• Preventive Maintenance will save you money in the long run

• Excellent Customer Service

• They will provide the right system and equipment

• For you and your family’s Safety

• Proper Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

• Provide you with better Air Quality

At Harbin Heating and Air Conditioning, we pride ourselves on providing our customers with the best service and workmanship. All of our technicians are highly trained and certified. 

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THE MAJOR CONSEQUENCES OF NOT CHANGING YOUR AIR FILTER

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If you are like most people, you aren’t thinking about your HVAC system until it stops functioning the way it should. Do you know one of the biggest sources of a system complication or failure? Clogged air filters. Read on to learn more about how air filters function in your HVAC system and what can happen when they aren’t changed on a regular schedule.

HOW DO AIR FILTERS WORK?

Air filters are generally made of spun fiberglass or pleated paper and surrounded by a cardboard frame. They are inserted into a specific place in the HVAC systems and act as a barrier to prevent contaminants and other particles from circulating in the air, or from reaching sensitive parts of the system. Some of the common things that filters block are dust, pollen, lint, mold, hair, animal fur, bacteria, and more. 

HOW OFTEN SHOULD FILTERS BE CHANGED?

Depending on the type of air filter you are using, you will need to follow different schedules to ensure that the filter is always functioning for optimal performance. Most manufacturers recommend that basic filters are changed every 30 to 60 days, but there are other circumstances that could affect that schedule. 

• A filter in a regular home with no pets should be changed every 90 days 

• If your home has a single pet, the filter should be changed every 60 days 

• For multiple pets, or if anyone in your home suffers from allergies, you’ll want to change the filter anywhere between 20 to 45 days

• People in single-occupant homes with no pets, or those who own vacation homes that don’t get much use, can usually wait for 6 to 12 months before changing their filter 

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU DON’T CHANGE YOUR FILTER? 

When air filters are not consistently changed, they get clogged by the buildup of particles and contaminants that stick to the filter.  While the filter is designed to accommodate these minuscule items, the buildup creates an almost impenetrable barrier so that the air cannot completely flow through, which can ultimately cause multiple problems for the entire HVAC system.  

Higher Energy Bills

When the filter becomes clogged, air cannot easily flow through the system. This causes the whole system to have to work harder to distribute heat or air where it is needed, which increases your utility bills since the air is running for longer.  

Poor Temperature Regulation 

Since clogged air filters make the system strain to create airflow, warm or cool air cannot adequately go where it is needed. This means that some rooms could be too cold during the winter or too hot in the summer. 

Health Concerns 

If the air filter is clogged and cannot trap contaminants as it did before, those things can end up back in the air that everyone in your home is breathing. Immediate issues could include headaches, itchy eyes or throat, and dizziness. If the air filters are not changed and the issues continue, the long-term effects could be respiratory diseases, heart disease, or cancer.

Furnace Failures

As the system is working harder to get around clogged air filters, it can cause the entire system to overwork and eventually break. If this happens, you’ll need to replace the entire system, which can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $12,000. Air filters usually cost less than $40, so they are easy to replace frequently compared to replacing the entire system. 

Clamped-Up Coils 

Evaporative coils, which help remove heat from the air to keep your home cool, can freeze up if they are overworked. With a clogged air filter, the air won’t flow over the coils correctly, which makes them stop working and leads to total system failure. Again, the price to fix this issue is greater than simply purchasing a new air filter every few months. Protect your HVAC system and your wallet by replacing the air filters on a regular schedule. 

WHAT TO DO

If you haven’t changed the air filters in your home lately, your next step should be to figure out which filters you need and replace them as soon as possible. If you find that the old filters look like nothing, not even air, could ever pass through them, it’s time to contact our HVAC professionals. They can visit your house to inspect the system and resolve any issues caused by the clogged filters, thus preventing further problems in the future. 

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Insulation is Necessary in the Summer, Too?

It only makes sense. If cold air can seep in, hot air can, too. This means you’ll need to have the attic, walls and floor insulated so the temperature inside your home doesn’t become unlivable.

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While warm air and heat sound so inviting in the middle of the winter, once the temperatures begin to soar, you’ll be wanting some cool relief. All the air conditioning you could add to your house won’t help if you don’t have enough insulation, because that heat will creep in through the walls. 

Keep Your Electric Bill Low—Add Sufficient Insulation to Keep Heat Out

If you don’t want your air conditioner running from early in the morning until bedtime, you’ll have to ensure that your home is well-insulated against summertime heat. It can get hot, stuffy and downright uncomfortable if your house lacks insulation or doesn’t have enough. 

As contractors are working on your house (and adding insulation), have them check whether enough insulation has been added to every area of your attic. This includes both ends and every corner. Hot air can come in through areas where the insulation is too thin. Your contractor should know that ventilation shouldn’t be blocked at the soffits. 

Request a High-Quality Insulation

If you are having your home built to green standards, it may surprise you to learn that having a high-quality insulation added to all areas of your home can help make your home more environmentally friendly. 

Let your builder and contractor know that, while your home is being built, you want green products used. Ask them which insulation would be the best to use to protect your home from unwanted heat and cold. And, if you believe that, by not adding insulation, you’re protecting the environment, you’ll only give yourself higher energy bills. A good insulation helps your home achieve the best R values for the northeast. As a result, you’ll be able to keep your energy bills. low.

Improve Insulation During the Winter

Once your house has been built and you and your family have moved in, you’ll be able to determine whether it’s comfortable year-round. If your new home still got too hot during the summer months, this is a sign that the insulation may not be sufficient for your home’s needs. 

The winter months are the ideal time for having new insulation added. Ask for an energy audit so your contractor can figure out where the new insulation should go. It’s a given that he’ll add more insulation in the attic. 

Most Importantly Choose the Right Central Air System

You’ve had the right amount of insulation added. Now, it’s time to make sure you have the right central air conditioning system installed in your home. If your unit is too small, you could run it 24 hours a day and still feel hot inside. If the unit is too big, you’ll have too much humidity added to the rooms—not comfortable! 

As your contractor is installing ducts and vents, pay close attention to make sure the work is done correctly. Make sure the ducts are properly sealed so you don’t lose cooled or heated air.

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Air Leaks: How is Your A/C Escaping Your Home?

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If you’re uncomfortable in your home and changing the thermostat doesn’t help, it may be due to these five sources of air leaks.

1. The Fireplace

During cold weather, you open the fireplace flue so smoke and carbon dioxide can escape through the chimney. But it’s easy to forget to close the flue during warm weather.  

And if the flue is open, air will quickly leak from the home and your energy bill will have a significant spike.

If you have a traditional throat damper, poke your head inside the fireplace — assuming it hasn’t been used for months and it’s safe to do so! — and shine a flashlight on the damper. If there’s a barrier, the flue is closed. If you can see into the flue, it’s open.

Alternatively, if you have a top-mount damper, grab some binoculars, head outside and focus on the chimney to verify that the vents are closed.

In either case, if the flue is open, close it immediately to make your home energy efficient.

2. The Roof

The roof’s condition has a major impact on your comfort — after all, it’s the closest thing to the sun, and it takes the biggest beating from rain, snow, limbs and leaves.

It’s important to routinely check the roof for damage, both from the outside and inside.

First, carefully climb a ladder and walk on the roof to check for curling, cupping or cracked shingles, and make repairs or replacements as needed.

Then, visit the attic and examine the roof. If you see sunlight, that’s not the only thing that can enter the home. So can air, rain, snow, leaves and debris.   

You can patch some bad spots, but widespread roof problems can lead to structural damage. And remember: Roofs don’t last forever — an asphalt shingle roof may last 20 to 30 years. If yours is much older than that, it’s probably time to replace it.

Metal roofing is an increasingly popular alternative to asphalt. It comes in different styles and colors to match just about any home’s architecture, and in many cases, installers can lay it right on top of asphalt. 

3. The Ductwork

Sometimes, the cause of an air leak is the most expected one: the source of the air itself!

While you’re in the attic checking the roof, go ahead and check the ductwork, too. Leaks allow air from the furnace or A/C to escape.

Fortunately, the fix is easy and affordable.

You just have to locate the leak, seal it with inexpensive metallic foil tape designed for ductwork repairs and improve the seal with duct mastic.

4. The Attic

Your home can never have enough insulation. Unfortunately, a lot of homes have an inadequate amount — or worse, none at all.

While you’re in the attic checking the ductwork, make sure the ceiling joists aren’t bare. If they are, buy faced insulation, which has a paper side facing toward the living space. This blocks moisture.

If the attic has a thin layer of insulation, buy unfaced insulation to add on top. (That’s the kind with no paper on the bottom.) Choose the right R-value to match your home’s needs. Insulation’s performance is expressed by the R-value, which ranges from 2.0 to 8.0 per inch of insulation.

Hollow walls also can be pumped with insulation to prevent energy loss.

5. The Gaps

Finally, there’s no shortage of cracks and gaps that lead to air leaks. So, try this step-by-step plan to cover the most common bases.

First, caulk around windows and doors to seal the home’s envelope. Homes expand and contract due to highs and lows in humidity, so do this each summer and winter.

Second, check each entry door’s threshold for damage and replace a failing rubber seal — or the entire threshold — as needed.

Third, check for gaps between the threshold and the door and install door sweeps as needed. Some door sweeps attach to the bottom of the door; others are mounted inside the door.

You also can insulate electrical outlets, install or replace weatherstripping in windows and doors, and cover window air conditioners for a weather-tight seal.

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Tips for Controlling Moisture Levels in Your Home

Mold can post serious health risks – especially for people with allergies and asthma. The key to controlling mold growth is reducing moisture, whether from leaks, high humidity, or variations in temperature in your home.

Below are some tips to help you keep your home drier and, thus, mold-free.

1. Dry up the drips

Even a small water leak can develop into a major mold problem, so check pipes under sinks, and behind your washing machine and refrigerator (if it has a water line). Repair leaks right away.

2. Don’t be sloppy when watering your indoor plants

I can't tell you how many homes I've seen with moisture stains on the floor under or near an indoor plant. Be careful not to spill or overwater when you are watering a plant and put a dish under the pot in case the pot leaks. It's also not a great idea to put a plant pot on a carpet or rug.

3. Watch the hot water tank

Put a battery-operated floor-water alarm near your hot water tank, so you'll be alerted if the tank starts to leak. If you have a central alarm system, consider having a floor-water alarm tied into the system. If you have a gas-fired hot water heater, plan to replace it right before the warranty expires. Electric hot water heaters tend to last longer than their warranty, but still, keep an eye on its warranty date.

4. Control the relative humidity below-grade

Mold growth doesn't always require standing water. Some molds can begin to grow when the relative humidity (RH) is over 80%. As air cools, its RH rises. Below-grade (below ground level) spaces like basements and crawl spaces are naturally cool and damp, so the RH must be adequately controlled.

Use a thermo-hygrometer to measure the RH. The RH should be kept at or below 50% in unfinished basement spaces and in crawl spaces, and below 60% in finished basement spaces.

During the spring and summer months, between mid-April and mid-October in the northeast, add dehumidification as needed, even if your finished basement has air conditioning. Be sure that your dehumidifier is adequate for the space, and attach the machine to a condensate pump, so it can drain into a sink or to the exterior. That way, you won’t have to empty the reservoir (when the reservoir is full, the dehumidifier will shut off).

In the winter, you do not need to dehumidify an unfinished basement. However, a finished basement must be kept consistently warm, whether in use or not, with the thermostat set at a minimum of 57° F.

5. Don’t over-humidify above grade

In the winter, we don't open windows and doors that much, so moisture can build up in a house in above-grade (at or above ground level) rooms. If you have an exhaust fan over your cook stove that vents to the exterior, use the fan whenever you cook or bake, and try to cook and bake at the same time.

After showering or bathing, operate the exhaust fan in the bathroom for at least twenty minutes. In addition, leave the door open and operate an oscillating fan in the bathroom to help dry surfaces.

If you have a central humidification system, keep the RH in habitable rooms under 40% (lower in extreme cold). The same holds true if you use a portable humidifier in any particular room. Always measure the RH with a thermo-hygrometer.

6. Keep your exterior closet(s) warm

A closet with one or more walls facing the exterior can develop conditions of elevated RH. This can lead to mold growth on those walls, as well as on goods stored on the cool closet floor. It's best not to overstuff a closet with personal goods; keep your things off the floor and away from cool walls.

Don't install carpet or put rugs on the closet floor, as carpeting captures biodegradable dust. Remove the dust from the floor and baseboard trim.

To warm the air and help control the RH in an exterior closet, you can heat the closet with a heater specially made for the purpose (or just the light). Or, you can keep the door open to increase the flow of warm air into the space. You can also install a louvered rather than solid closet door.

7. Don’t keep some rooms cold while you heat other rooms

In the winter, it's tempting to heat only the rooms that you use and leave other rooms cool. In homes with wood-burning stoves, I've often found that some rooms near the stove are toasty, while others are uncomfortably cold. This may help you save on your heating bills, but unfortunately, elevated RH conditions can develop in the rooms that aren't adequately heated, even if they are above grade. And then you know what may happen next… mold growth.

8. Isolate your crawl space

A crawl space should be isolated from the exterior and be dehumidified. Otherwise, humid air can enter the space and lead to condensation and mold growth on cool surfaces. If a crawl space has a dirt floor, the dirt should be covered with a mesh-enforced vapor barrier, or even with appropriate cementitious material, to limit the evaporation of moisture from the soil.

9. Don’t introduce unnecessary amounts of moisture into your attached garage

In the summer, dehumidify your garage during particularly humid weather; just keep the RH under 70%. In the winter, wipe snow off your car, including kicking snow off the tires, before driving the vehicle into the garage. If snow still falls onto the garage floor, sweep it to the exterior before it melts, or sweep the water out of the garage after the snow has melted.

A good whole house dehumidifier could help, contact us if you have any questions.

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