How a De-Humidistat Works
Your air conditioning system is basically a de-humidifier. The de-humidistat controls your central air conditioning system in a way that keeps the house as dry as necessary when the house is unoccupied. When the house is occupied, the de-humidistat should not be used, and should be left in the “ON” position. In this position, it will not affect the operation of your system.
Operation When Home
Turn the de-humidistat all the way to the “ON” position. Set the thermostat to “AUTO-FAN”, “COOL” and set the temperature control to the desired temperature. At this setting, your de-humidistat does not and should not affect the operation of your system.
When away from home for an extended period
Set the thermostat to “AUTO-FAN”, “COOL”, and set temperature at 80 degrees. (This does not mean that the temperature in your house will be 80. This is merely a setting that will allow the de-humidistat to complete its function under any type of weather conditions.) Set the de-humidistat between 60 and 70%. The lower the number, the dryer it will keep your house. 65% is generally adequate to prevent mildew and we have not had any problems or complaints in the past at this setting. However, if you feel you'd like your house dryer, set the number to a lower setting and it will accomplish this. Keep in mind, the lower the number, the higher the cost on your electric bill. We strongly recommend between 60-65%.
To Check Operation
If you want to see if your de-humidistat is functioning, set your thermostat to 65 degrees, “COOL” and “AUTO-FAN”. Turn the de-humidistat all the way to the “ON” position. Your air-conditioner should be functioning at this time. Check to see that cool air is coming from the ducts. If it is working, then turn the de-humidistat all the way in the opposite direction. Your air-conditioner should shut off. (Many newer systems delay shutting the blower fan off. Wait up to one minute if your system does not shut off immediately.) When the system shuts off, you know that your de-humidistat is functioning properly. Wait five minutes, then return the settings on the de-humidistat and thermostat to normal.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Save yourself a service call- Tell your guests who are using your home that you have a De-humidistat installed and how to properly operate it. Many times the guests call saying the air conditioning does not work and arrange for a service call.
If you have any further questions or are interested in a de-humidistat, please contact us.