Why Your AC Is Struggling During the DMV’s Humid Summers

If your air conditioner seems to run non-stop during the height of summer without keeping your home comfortable, humidity may be the culprit. The DMV region is known for its sticky, sweltering summers—conditions that can push even a well-functioning AC system to its limit. Let’s break down how excess humidity affects your system and what you can do about it.

How Humidity Affects AC Performance

Humidity refers to the amount of moisture in the air, and high humidity levels make it feel warmer than the actual temperature. Your air conditioner is designed to remove both heat and moisture from your home’s air, but when humidity is high, it has to work much harder. That means that your AC runs longer, driving up energy costs and accelerating wear and tear on the unit.

Common Signs Your AC Is Overwhelmed by Humidity

• Your AC runs constantly without reaching the set temperature.
• Your home’s indoor air feels clammy or sticky even when it’s cool.
• You notice excess condensation on vents or windows.

Undersized or Aging AC Units May Not Be Equipped for DMV Summers

If your system is more than 10–15 years old or wasn’t properly sized when installed, it may be falling short. Older air conditioners naturally lose efficiency over time and will struggle to keep up when both heat and humidity are high. Undersized units will also have to work hard to keep up with your cooling needs. Experienced HVAC professionals perform load calculations when installing a new AC system. This ensures that the unit is properly matched to your home’s square footage, layout, and insulation.

The Importance of Proper AC Maintenance in Humid Climates

Regular AC maintenance can go a long way in helping your system perform under pressure. Seasonal tune-ups by licensed HVAC professionals can catch issues early and keep your system running at peak performance.

During an AC tune-up, your HVAC technician will:

• Check and replace filters: Dirty filters restrict airflow, reducing your AC’s ability to remove humidity from your air.
• Clean evaporator and condenser coils: Dirty coils prevent efficient heat transfer, meaning your AC will struggle to do its job.
• Check refrigerant levels: Low refrigerant will impact your AC’s performance, making humidity issues worse.

Solutions to Help Your AC Handle Humid Weather

If your air conditioner is struggling due to high humidity, consider these solutions:

• Install a whole-home dehumidifier: This helps remove moisture before it reaches your AC system.
• Upgrade to a variable-speed or high-SEER AC system: These systems adapt to your home’s cooling needs, offering better humidity control.
• Use zoning systems or smart thermostats: These tools offer more precise temperature and humidity regulation by room.

Trust McCrea for AC Expertise in the DMV Area

For more than 80 years, McCrea Heating & Air Conditioning has helped homeowners throughout the DMV area manage comfort, no matter how humid the summer gets. We offer comprehensive AC services and indoor air quality solutions, including dehumidifiers, smart thermostats, and high-efficiency AC installations. Our team is proud to provide honest pricing, on-time service, and preventative maintenance plans designed to keep your home comfortable year-round.

Contact us to schedule your AC & indoor air quality service in the DMV area.

FAQs

Why does my AC run non-stop but not cool effectively?

This could mean your system is struggling to remove excess humidity, but it might also point to other issues. Low refrigerant, dirty coils, a clogged air filter, or an undersized unit can all prevent your AC from cooling properly—even if it’s running constantly.

Can high humidity damage my AC unit?

Yes, constant strain caused by high humidity can lead to faster wear on components and increase the risk of breakdowns.

Is it normal for indoor air to feel sticky even with AC running?

No, that usually indicates that your system isn’t removing enough moisture. You may need a dehumidifier or AC maintenance.

Will a dehumidifier help my AC work better?

Yes, a whole-home dehumidifier can ease the load on your air conditioner and improve overall comfort.

How can I tell if my AC unit is too small for my home?

Signs include long run times, uneven cooling, and high humidity. A professional load calculation can determine if your system is properly sized.