Every spring or during the rainy season, many regions experience weather phenomena known as "damp season" or "high humidity." The increased humidity in the air can make walls, floors, and even clothing feel slippery or sticky, causing significant discomfort in living environments. To address indoor humidity issues, many people consider using the dehumidifying function of air conditioners. But is the dehumidification from air conditioning really effective? How does it compare to a dehumidifier? This article will comprehensively explain the principles of air conditioning dehumidification, usage methods, and practical suggestions to help you create a dry and comfortable living space.

The main function of an air conditioner is to lower indoor temperatures, but during the cooling process, it also achieves a certain level of dehumidification. The principle of dehumidification is as follows:

· Condensation: When indoor air passes through the evaporator of the air conditioner, the moisture in the air condenses into water droplets due to the temperature drop. These droplets are then drained outside via a drainage pipe, thereby reducing air humidity.

· Dehumidification Side Effect: Although the primary design of an air conditioner is temperature regulation, dehumidification is one of its side effects during cooling. Some models even come with a dedicated "Dry" mode specifically for dehumidification.

However, compared to professional dehumidifiers, the dehumidification efficiency of air conditioners is not high, and the effectiveness can be limited by the model, usage method, and environmental conditions.

Advantages:

· ✅ Saves Space: No need to purchase an additional dehumidifier, making it suitable for limited living spaces.

· ✅ Multi-functional: Air conditioners provide both cooling and dehumidification functions, making them particularly useful in summer for dual-purpose convenience.

· ✅ Immediate Comfort Improvement: In hot and humid weather, turning on the air conditioner can simultaneously reduce temperature and humidity, enhancing comfort.

Limitations:

· ❌ Lower Dehumidification Efficiency: Air conditioners have a slower dehumidification rate, and the amount of moisture removed is far lower than that of professional dehumidifiers.

· ❌ Higher Power Consumption: Prolonged use of air conditioning for dehumidification consumes more electricity compared to dedicated dehumidifiers, impacting electricity costs.

· ❌ Not Suitable for Non-Summer Use: Using air conditioning for dehumidification in spring or autumn when temperatures are lower can lead to an overly cold indoor environment.

· ❌ Increased Mechanical Load: Continuous operation of the air conditioner for dehumidification may increase the compressor's load, shortening its lifespan.

1. Activate "Dry" Mode

Most split-type air conditioners have a Dry mode, which operates at a lower fan speed and intermittently, achieving dehumidification while saving energy and preventing excessive temperature drops.

2. Set Appropriate Temperature (Recommended 24–26°C)

Avoid setting the temperature too low during dehumidification. It is generally recommended to set it about 2 to 5°C lower than the ambient temperature to achieve dehumidification while maintaining a comfortable temperature.

3. Choose Suitable Operating Times

It is advisable to use dehumidification mode in the early morning, evening, or during times of higher humidity; during the afternoon or in drier weather, you can switch back to cooling or fan mode to save energy.

4. Use a Fan to Enhance Circulation Efficiency

Turning on a fan can promote air circulation, helping to speed up dehumidification and evenly distribute room temperature, thereby improving overall dehumidification effectiveness.

5. Utilize Timer and Cycle Functions

You can preset timer functions or use a cycling mode, such as "cooling for 30 minutes → dehumidifying for 60 minutes → turning off," to avoid continuous high power consumption.

6. Use Fan Mode to Maintain Dryness Inside the Unit

After dehumidification, it is advisable to switch to fan mode for a few minutes to help expel residual moisture inside the unit, preventing mold growth and odor.

While air conditioning can achieve a certain level of dehumidification, it is more advisable to use a professional dehumidifier in the following situations:

· When long-term or continuous dehumidification is needed.

· In areas with heavy moisture (such as basements or near bathrooms).

· When the weather is cooler, making it unsuitable to use air conditioning for cooling.

Recommendations for Combining Air Conditioning and Dehumidifiers:

· You can first use the air conditioner to quickly reduce temperature and humidity, then maintain stable humidity with the dehumidifier over a longer period.

· Alternatively, you can alternate between the air conditioner and the dehumidifier to achieve optimal performance and energy efficiency.

· Regularly Clean the Filter: Ensure smooth airflow and dehumidification efficiency; it is recommended to clean the filter every two weeks.

· Ensure Drainage is Unblocked: Avoid water accumulation that could lead to leaks or mold issues.

· Avoid Running Air Conditioning for Dehumidification When No One is Home: This helps save electricity and protects the unit's lifespan.

· Regularly Check Power and Drainage Systems: Prevent faults or short circuit risks.

· Ensure a Closed Environment for Best Results: When dehumidifying, keep doors and windows closed to prevent external moisture from entering.

In humid weather, air conditioners provide basic dehumidification capabilities, quickly enhancing living comfort. However, if you need to maintain a dry environment for extended periods or have significant electricity cost considerations, a dehumidifier remains a more effective and cost-efficient choice. When using air conditioning for dehumidification, it is advisable to utilize the Dry mode, set reasonable temperatures, and incorporate fans and timer functions to enhance efficiency while minimizing electricity waste.