Birmingham, Alabama, is well-known for hot, sunny weather and excessive humidity.
When I relocated to the area, I knew that air conditioning would suddenly become a priority.
Until then, I’d always lived along the northern border of the country. Although I’d moved around a lot, I’d never strayed from those areas that require heating and a snow shovel for the majority of the year. The winters were long, freezing cold and kept me mostly indoors. Air conditioning was considered a luxury rather than a necessity. Living in Birmingham, I hide indoors during the summers to escape the oppressive heat and look forward to the cooler conditions of winter. I’ve discovered that high humidity is more than sticky and uncomfortable. It can cause health concerns and damage to home furnishings. A hot and moist environment is ideal for growing mold and mildew. Bacteria, viruses, dust mites and cockroaches thrive in that type of climate. Wood furnishings, such as musical instruments, antiques, doors and floors are in danger of swelling and warping. An abundance of humidity can be blamed for headaches, congestion, difficulty sleeping and lethargy. While the air conditioner helps with the moisture, it isn’t sufficient. I decided to invest into a whole-home dehumidifier. Installed into the central cooling system, the dehumidifier pulls moisture from the air as it travels through. It ensures recommended humidity levels at all times. Because of the dehumidifier, the house feels cooler at a higher thermostat setting, saving money on monthly electric bills. Less wear and tear on the air conditioner supports greater longevity and reliability. The dehumidifier runs quietly and requires only annual upkeep. I have it serviced along with the air conditioner every spring.