Why Does My Home Have Humidity Problems?
Phoenix has extreme humidity swings, very dry most of the year (10-30%) but humid during monsoon season (50-70%). Dry conditions cause discomfort and health issues; humid conditions during monsoons can trigger mold. An oversized AC can make humidity worse by short-cycling. Solutions include properly sized equipment, dehumidifiers during monsoon season, and whole-home humidifiers for dry months.
Common Causes
Monsoon Season Spikes
Phoenix humidity normally sits at 10-30%, but monsoon season (June-September) can push it to 50-70%. Homes designed for dry conditions suddenly deal with unusual moisture.
Oversized AC System
An oversized AC cools quickly but doesn't run long enough to remove humidity. The short cycles (called short-cycling) leave moisture in the air even when the temperature is comfortable.
Too Dry in Winter
During non-monsoon months, indoor humidity can drop to 10-20%, uncomfortably dry. This causes dry skin, static electricity, cracked wood furniture, and respiratory irritation.
Evaporative Cooler Moisture
Some Phoenix homes use swamp coolers, which add moisture to the air. During monsoon season when humidity is already high, this can create uncomfortable and potentially moldy conditions.
Poor Ventilation in Bathrooms
Without proper exhaust fans, bathroom moisture accumulates. This is more noticeable during monsoon season when outdoor humidity is already high.
Water Intrusion
Monsoon rains can cause leaks around windows, roofs, or foundations. This introduces moisture that takes a long time to dry in normally sealed homes.
What Should You Do?
Try This First
- Run bathroom exhaust fans during and after showers
- Use a standalone dehumidifier during monsoon season
- Run your AC fan continuously during humid periods to circulate air
- Check for leaks after monsoon storms
- Consider a whole-house humidifier for dry winter months
- Keep swamp coolers off when humidity exceeds 30%
Call a Pro If...
- Musty smells indicating mold growth
- Condensation on windows or walls
- AC runs but home feels clammy
- Allergies or respiratory issues during monsoon season
- You want to add humidity control to your HVAC system