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Central air conditioner - home's humidity is too high

When your home humidity is too high with the central air conditioner running, the system may be cooling without removing enough moisture. The most likely cause is a dirty or clogged air filter, which restricts airflow, can freeze the evaporator coil, and prevents the air conditioner from dehumidifying properly. Replace the filter as recommended, especially in dusty homes or homes with pets. Next, check for dirty condenser coils. Debris on the condenser coil reduces heat transfer, makes the compressor run longer, and can keep the system from lowering indoor humidity. A malfunctioning temperature-control thermostat is another common cause if it shuts the air conditioner off too soon. Less commonly, a failed thermistor or central air conditioner control board can send incorrect temperature signals and prevent proper cooling cycles. Turn off power at the disconnect box and circuit breaker before inspecting or cleaning outdoor components. Testing or replacing parts near 240V wiring should be handled by a qualified technician, and refrigerant or any sealed-system repair requires an EPA 608-certified HVAC professional. Enter your model number to find the exact replacement air filter, thermostat, thermistor, or control board for your central air conditioner.

01 - Central Air Conditioner Air Filter

If the air filter is clogged, air cannot flow properly through the air conditioner. This greatly reduces the cooling capacity of the air conditioner. In addition, if the air filter is clogged, the evaporator coils will frost over. Check and replace the air filter at least twice a year, more often in dusty/dirty environments or if there is a pet in the home.
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Highly Likely

02 - Clogged Air Filter

If the air filter is clogged, air cannot flow properly through the home's venting system. This greatly reduces the cooling capacity of the air conditioner. In addition, if the air filter is clogged, the evaporator coils will frost over and not be able to remove moisture from the air. The air filter should be checked and replaced at least twice a year, more often in dusty/dirty environments. Refer to owner's manual for guidance.
Highly Likely

03 - Condenser Coils are Dirty

The condenser coils dissipate the heat as the refrigerant passes through the coils. If the condenser coils are dirty, they won’t be able to dissipate the heat as effectively. As debris builds up on the coils, the air conditioner will become less efficient, causing the air conditioner to work harder to cool down. If the coils are significantly dirty, the air conditioner will not be able to remove the moisture from the air and maintain the proper temperature, resulting in the compressor running continuously in an attempt to cool the room. Check the condenser coils to determine if they are dirty. Refer to owner's manual for cleaning instructions.
Highly Likely

04 - Central Air Conditioner Temperature Control Thermostat

The temperature control thermostat is a sensor which monitors the temperature of the air and activates a switch to provide power to the fan and compressor when the air temperature drops below a set point. If the thermostat isn’t working properly, the air conditioner may not stay running long enough to remove the moisture in the air and cool properly. To determine if the temperature control thermostat is defective, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the thermostat does not have continuity, or is shutting off too soon, replace it. (Note: Some thermostats may also control a heater and, as a result, will have three... terminals. Refer to your air conditioner’s wiring diagram for more information.)
Common

05 - Central Air Conditioner Thermistor

The thermistor is a sensor connected to the control board that detects the temperature of the air. The resistance value of the thermistor changes in conjunction with the air temperature. If the air temperature rises, the resistance value will decrease. To determine if the thermistor is at fault, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the thermistor does not have continuity, or if the resistance of the thermistor does not change with a change in temperature, replace the thermistor. (To find specific temperature and resistance values, try checking your user’s manual.)
Less Common

06 - Central Air Conditioner Control Board

The main control board regulates the voltage to the compressor and the fan motor. If the control board fails, some components will not function properly or will not work at all. Control boards are often misdiagnosed; make sure to check more commonly defective parts first before replacing the control board.
Less Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my central air conditioner not removing humidity?
Can a clogged air filter cause high humidity with the AC running?
How do I test the thermostat or thermistor when my AC is not dehumidifying?
Could dirty condenser coils make my air conditioner run constantly and leave the house humid?
How do I find the correct replacement part for my central air conditioner?