HVAC System

HVAC System | Dehumidifier Installation | Heating and Air Conditioning | Chattanooga

Chattanooga’s sultry summers and swift weather shifts can turn any home into a sticky sauna or a chilly cave. HEP’s certified HVAC team balances the equation with precise heating, cooling, and air-quality solutions that keep indoor comfort steady all year long. From high-efficiency furnaces that chase away the damp chill to whisper-quiet air conditioners that fend off August’s swelter, we engineer every system to match your home’s unique footprint—and your family’s lifestyle.

When excess moisture starts breeding musty odors, mold, or skyrocketing energy bills, our targeted dehumidifier installation steps in as the perfect finishing touch. By pulling humidity out of the air before it circulates through your ductwork, we help your HVAC system run leaner, your woodwork stay protected, and your lungs breathe easier. Ready to reclaim crisp, balanced air in every room? One call to HEP is all it takes to schedule a free, no-pressure assessment and feel the difference for yourself.

FAQs

Why is a whole-home dehumidifier important for homes in Chattanooga?

Chattanooga’s river-valley location gives it long, humid summers and frequent rain, which can push indoor relative humidity well above the recommended 30–50 %. Excess moisture fosters mold, dust mites, and an uncomfortable “clammy” feeling even when the thermostat is set low. A dedicated dehumidifier removes this excess moisture, helping your HVAC system cool more efficiently, preventing structural damage from condensation, and improving indoor air quality year-round.

How does a dehumidifier integrate with my existing heating and air-conditioning system?

We install the dehumidifier in your supply or return ductwork so it treats all the air that circulates through the HVAC system. A built-in humidistat monitors humidity and turns the unit on only when needed. The removed water drains through a condensate line—typically the same line your air conditioner already uses—so there’s no tank to empty. The system can be wired to your thermostat or controlled by its own wall-mounted controller for independent humidity set-points.

What size or capacity dehumidifier does my home need?

Sizing is based on square footage, typical moisture load, and ACH (air changes per hour). During our free in-home assessment we: • Measure floor area and ceiling height to calculate cubic footage. • Inspect insulation, vapor barriers, and air-leakage points. • Factor in lifestyle sources of moisture such as cooking, showers, and number of occupants. • Use ACCA Manual Q guidelines to select a unit, usually 70–120 pints per day for most Chattanooga residences. Proper sizing ensures the dehumidifier runs efficiently without short-cycling or over-drying the air.

What is involved in the installation process and how long does it take?

A typical retrofit takes 4–6 hours. Steps include: 1. Confirm placement near the air handler with adequate clearance and a 120 V outlet. 2. Add or modify duct transitions so the dehumidifier can feed dry air back into the supply plenum. 3. Run a dedicated condensate drain line with proper slope and a clean-out. 4. Wire the unit to a control circuit and integrate with the thermostat if desired. 5. Calibrate the humidistat and test airflow, amperage draw, and drain function. You can stay in your home during the work, and your HVAC system is operational the same day.

How much does a whole-home dehumidifier installation cost in the Chattanooga area, and are rebates available?

Installed prices generally range from $1,800 to $3,200 depending on capacity, duct modifications, and electrical work. Factors that raise cost include tight crawl spaces or the need for a new dedicated circuit. EPB and TVA occasionally offer home-performance rebates ($150–$300) for humidity-control upgrades that meet ENERGY STAR® criteria. We’ll help you file the paperwork and provide financing options with low monthly payments if needed.

What maintenance does the dehumidifier require after installation?

Maintenance is minimal but important: • Clean the air intake filter every 3–6 months (or replace if disposable). • Inspect and flush the condensate line annually to prevent clogs. • Have the refrigeration coil, fan motor, and humidistat checked during your spring or fall HVAC tune-up. Keeping the filter clean not only prolongs the unit’s life but also prevents airflow restrictions that could freeze the coil. Most manufacturers offer 5-year limited warranties when maintenance is documented.