Dealing With Furnace Problems

Controlling Humidity In The Office On A Humid Summer's Day

19 July 2019 by Eliza Chapman

Feeling the humidity rise in an office is expected when the weather outside is particularly humid. The increased moisture taxes the ability of the office air conditioning system, and any time the building is open, you risk humid air wafting in. So, what can you do to mitigate the inward flow of moist air that no one likes? You have a bunch of simple options that, taken together, can counter the increased humidity. You don't have to feel uncomfortable inside because of extra-humid conditions outside.

Add Portable Dehumidifiers

Bring in some portable dehumidifiers -- you can get tabletop versions if you don't have much room -- and place them at different intervals throughout the common areas of the office. Many of these models need occasional draining (for the smaller models, you can easily pour the excess water down the sink in the office kitchen), so be sure to check the dehumidifiers on a regular schedule each day. These can be very effective, especially when used with other tactics.

Add Fans, but Not in Front of Faces

One of the reasons humid air can feel so awful is the fact that it feels heavy and thick. Creating a breeze helps. Fans can move air around and reduce some of the stagnant feeling. You'll have to position the fans carefully to ensure they add to the circulation in the office, but don't sit in the way of anyone trying to walk down a hallway. Don't have people place the fans on desks near their faces. The constant stream of air can create sinus-type problems and dry out nasal passages, making people feel worse after a while, even if initially the fans make things feel cooler.

Post Signs by Windows and Doors

Remind people not to leave doors and windows open. That will let humid air back in. Many people don't like air conditioning and would prefer to have fresh air, and this creates a conflict in many offices. Post signs letting people know that the doors and windows have to remain closed that day.

Check the Air Conditioning

And, of course, have the building air conditioning inspected to ensure that it's working as well as it can. Excess humidity outside places a bit more strain on the air conditioner as it tries to remove all that warmth and moisture, and the interior of the building can feel a bit more humid in that case. But if you are feeling a lot of humidity, even with dehumidifiers and the like, have the air conditioner inspected.

Summer will be over before you know it, but in the meantime, do what you can to keep the office comfortable. Air conditioning systems that are maintained well should continue to work well.

For more help, contact a commercial HVAC contractor.

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