Existing HVAC System

Existing HVAC System | Dehumidifier Installation | Heating and Air Conditioning | Dayton

Dayton’s muggy summers and damp shoulder seasons can turn even the most efficient HVAC system into a sticky, uncomfortable experience. HEP’s NATE-certified technicians integrate a whole-home dehumidifier directly into your existing heating and air conditioning equipment, quietly pulling excess moisture from every room while your thermostat rests at the temperature you actually want. The result is crisp, balanced indoor air that protects wood flooring, discourages mold, and reduces the load on your air conditioner—often lowering energy bills in the process.

From the first humidity reading to the final walkthrough, our team handles every detail of your dehumidifier installation with the same care that’s made HEP a trusted name across the Miami Valley for decades. We size the unit precisely for your square footage, route unobtrusive drainage, and back our work with transparent pricing and a satisfaction guarantee. Breathe easier, sleep better, and safeguard your home’s value—schedule your dehumidifier installation with HEP today.

FAQs

Why should I add a whole-house dehumidifier to my existing HVAC system in Dayton?

Dayton’s warm, humid summers frequently push indoor relative humidity above the recommended 45–50 % range. Excess moisture can promote mold growth, musty odors, dust-mite activity, and wood-warping while making your air conditioner feel less effective. A dedicated, duct-mounted dehumidifier pulls moisture from the air independently of cooling cycles, so it keeps your home comfortable and protects furnishings even on mild, sticky days when the A/C does not need to run.

How is a dehumidifier integrated into my current furnace/air-conditioning ductwork?

Our technicians install the dehumidifier in a bypass or return-to-supply configuration. The unit ties into the return plenum to draw humid air, removes moisture over an internal cooling coil, then sends the dried air back into the supply duct so it is delivered evenly throughout the house. A condensate drain is connected to your existing line or a nearby floor drain, and the system is wired to a dedicated humidistat or your smart thermostat so you can set a precise humidity level.

Will installing a dehumidifier increase my energy bills?

A whole-home dehumidifier does use electricity (typically 0.5–1.5 kWh per hour of run time), but most homeowners see little or no net increase—and sometimes a reduction—in total energy costs. By wringing moisture from the air, the evaporator coil on your air conditioner operates more efficiently and you can raise the thermostat 2–3 °F without sacrificing comfort. Lower runtime on the A/C compressor offsets much of the dehumidifier’s consumption, particularly during humid shoulder seasons.

How long does the installation take, and will my heating or cooling be offline?

A standard retrofit in Dayton typically takes 4–6 hours. We shut off power to the HVAC equipment only while attaching the unit to the ductwork and wiring the controls, usually less than 60 minutes. Your heating and cooling will be back on the same day, and our crew cleans up all job-site debris before leaving.

What maintenance does a whole-house dehumidifier need after installation?

Maintenance is minimal: 1) Replace or rinse the internal air filter every 6–12 months (more often if you have pets). 2) Verify the condensate drain is clear at the start of each cooling season. 3) Have the coil and blower wheel inspected and cleaned during your annual HVAC service visit. Most units have sealed refrigeration circuits, so no refrigerant handling is required under normal operation.

Are rebates or incentives available in the Dayton area for dehumidifier upgrades?

Yes. Efficiency Smart and certain DP&L (AES Ohio) programs periodically offer rebates—typically $50–$150—for Energy Star certified whole-home dehumidifiers installed by a licensed contractor. You may also qualify for a federal 25C tax credit (up to 30 % of project cost, capped at $600 for “qualified air-circulating fan” upgrades) when the dehumidifier is part of a larger HVAC efficiency improvement. We’ll help you complete the paperwork and supply all model and AHRI certification numbers needed for claims.