Air Conditioning Systems
Air Conditioning Systems | Dehumidifier Installation | Heating and Air Conditioning | Washburn
When summer moisture creeps into your Washburn home, HEP’s certified technicians step in with precision tools and neighborly know-how. We evaluate every square foot of your living space, balance your current HVAC settings, and recommend the perfect dehumidifier installation that slips seamlessly into your existing air-conditioning system. The result is crisp, breathable air that guards against mold, protects woodwork, and keeps your thermostat from working overtime.
Because we’re Washburn locals, we treat each project like it’s happening in our own homes—arriving on time, cleaning up thoroughly, and explaining every switch and filter before we leave. Backed by 24/7 emergency support and straightforward, no-surprise pricing, HEP keeps your family comfortable through the stickiest days of the year. Breathe easier, sleep better, and let your AC work smarter, not harder.
FAQs
Why should I add a whole-home dehumidifier to my HVAC system in Washburn?
Washburn summers may be short, but they are often muggy because of our proximity to Lake Superior. High indoor humidity makes rooms feel warmer than they are, encourages mold growth, warps woodwork, and can trigger allergies. A professionally installed dehumidifier keeps relative humidity in the ideal 40-50 % range, so you feel more comfortable at a higher thermostat setting, your air conditioner runs less, and your home and furnishings stay protected year-round.
How does a dehumidifier integrate with my existing heating and air-conditioning equipment?
We install the dehumidifier in your return-air ductwork, where it draws humid air through its coil, removes moisture, and sends the dried air back into the supply plenum to be distributed through your vents. The unit ties into the same drain line your air conditioner uses and is wired to your HVAC blower so air circulation is automatic. A dedicated digital humidistat—mounted on the wall or integrated into your smart thermostat—lets you set and monitor humidity just like temperature.
What size dehumidifier does my house need?
Capacity is expressed in pints of moisture removed per day. Most Washburn homes need a 70- to 100-pint unit, but the exact size depends on square footage, basement conditions, insulation levels, and the number of occupants. During a free in-home assessment we measure humidity at multiple points, inspect your ductwork, and perform Manual J load calculations to ensure the selected model can maintain your target humidity without short-cycling or running continuously.
What is involved in the installation and how long will it take?
A typical retrofit takes 4–6 hours. Our NATE-certified technicians will: 1. Isolate power to your HVAC system and protect flooring in the work area. 2. Cut a small section of return duct and mount the dehumidifier cabinet. 3. Run a rigid or insulated flex duct from the unit to the supply plenum. 4. Connect a condensate drain line to an existing floor drain or condensate pump. 5. Wire the unit to a dedicated 120 V/15 A circuit and tie in the blower interlock. 6. Mount and program the humidistat, then test for leaks and proper airflow. Before leaving we review the operating manual with you and register the factory warranty.
Will a dehumidifier raise my energy bills?
The compressor in a whole-home unit draws about 1–3 amps—roughly the same as a box fan. Any small increase in electricity use is usually offset by the ability to raise your cooling setpoint 2–3 °F while feeling just as comfortable. Lower humidity also reduces the latent load on your air conditioner, so the AC cycles less frequently, further balancing out energy costs. Many homeowners actually see a net savings of 5-10 % during the cooling season.
What maintenance is required, and do you offer service plans?
Maintenance is simple: clean or replace the dehumidifier’s MERV-8 filter every 3-6 months, keep the drain line clear, and vacuum the exterior grille to prevent dust buildup. During our annual ComfortGuard service visit we inspect the coil for bio-growth, check refrigerant pressures, verify electrical connections, calibrate the humidistat, and flush the condensate system. Enrollment in our plan includes priority scheduling, 10 % parts discounts, and extends the labor warranty on your dehumidifier to five years.