When homeowners in the St. Louis area shop for a new air conditioner, most assume that square footage alone determines the right AC size. But there’s a crucial factor often overlooked – humidity. In our Midwestern climate, moisture control is just as important as temperature control. If your system isn’t properly sized to handle both, you could face major comfort issues, high energy bills, and even mold or mildew problems.
At Galmiche & Sons, we have over 70 years of experience helping St. Louis families choose AC systems that are tailored to both their home’s size and humidity levels. Understanding how humidity affects AC sizing is key to keeping your indoor environment cool, comfortable, and healthy.
To learn more about proper air conditioner sizing for your St. Louis home, contact the experts at Galmiche & Sons today.
Why Humidity Matters in AC Sizing
Humidity refers to the amount of moisture in the air. During hot and humid summers in St. Louis, excess moisture makes your home feel warmer than it actually is. The air feels sticky and uncomfortable, and your AC has to work overtime, not just to cool the space, but also to remove moisture from the air.
An air conditioner doesn’t just lower temperatures. It also acts as a dehumidifier. If your system is too large, it may cool the air quickly but shut off before it has time to remove enough humidity. That’s a common issue known as short cycling, which leads to cold but clammy rooms.
If your system is too small, it might run constantly, struggling to keep up with both temperature and moisture removal, leading to higher utility costs and added wear on the system.
Signs Your AC May Not Be Handling Humidity Properly
- Your home feels cool but still damp or sticky
- Musty odors, especially in basements or closets
- Higher-than-average cooling bills
- Frequent cycling on and off (for oversized systems)
- Constant operation without reaching the desired comfort (for undersized systems)
If any of these sound familiar, it’s likely your air conditioner is not properly sized for your home’s humidity levels. If your air conditioner is not enough, you may also need to consider adding a dehumidifier to your St. Louis home.
Learn more about common signs you a dehumidifier for your AC.
Our Expert Approach to AC Sizing in St. Louis
At Galmiche & Sons, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. We perform a complete Manual J load calculation that accounts for:
- Total square footage
- Ceiling height and room volume
- Number of windows and their orientation
- Insulation levels
- Occupant usage
- Moisture loads from kitchens, bathrooms, and basements
- Local humidity trends in the St. Louis area
This thorough process ensures that your new system is sized not just for your home’s cooling load, but also for its dehumidification needs.
FAQs About Humidity and AC Sizing
Not necessarily. Oversized systems often cool air too quickly and shut off before moisture can be removed effectively. A right-sized system that runs longer and more consistently provides better humidity control. Learn more about Oversized AC Unit Problems.
Schedule an inspection with our team. We’ll evaluate your current system’s performance and compare it to your home’s actual needs.
Let Galmiche & Sons Help You Get AC Sizing Right
If you’re planning to install or replace an air conditioner, don’t underestimate the role humidity plays in sizing decisions. Choosing the wrong system could mean years of discomfort and higher energy bills. Our expert technicians at Galmiche & Sons provide customized AC sizing services to ensure your home stays cool, dry, and energy-efficient, even during St. Louis’ most humid months.
Contact us today to schedule your AC consultation or learn more about our installation services. Let us help you find the right size system for your comfort and peace of mind.
