When adjusting your air conditioning (AC) unit to a different setting, many homeowners forget the dry setting. This setting is a valuable additional feature on some air conditioners. Dry mode focuses on reducing humidity levels without resulting in any significant cooling effect, and it has many benefits.
What Is Dry Mode on an AC?
If your air conditioner has a built-in dry mode setting, you can reduce the humidity levels in your home at the touch of a button. This makes the indoor environment more comfortable when humidity levels are high.
When dry mode is activated, your air conditioner will run at a lower speed to allow air to move slowly over the evaporator coil, causing the moisture in the air to condense. This removes moisture and keeps it on the coil. When the air recirculates in the rooms in your home, it will be drier.
6 Benefits of Using Dry Mode on Your Air Conditioner
Air conditioner dry mode reduces humidity levels, but there are other benefits as well.
1. Controls Humidity
Humidity is sticky and uncomfortable and can leave you feeling clammy. When your air conditioner is in dry mode, humidity levels in your home decrease, and comfort levels improve. Dry mode on an air conditioner can be particularly useful when the weather isn’t uncomfortably hot but humidity levels are high.
2. Improves Energy Efficiency
Because the dry setting on air conditioning systems is solely focused on dehumidification, it forces the unit to operate slower. The slower operating speed results in better energy efficiency and can lead to lower energy bills. What homeowner doesn’t like the sound of that?
3. Prevents the Growth of Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew growth inside a house should never be ignored. Excessive humidity in your home can create an environment that invites mold and mildew growth. This poses health risks and, over time, can even result in structural damage. Using the dry setting will help prevent the growth of mold and mildew in your home and enhance health and safety.
4. Improves Air Quality
The dry setting on your air conditioner will also help improve your home’s air quality. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, lower humidity levels create a space with fewer airborne allergens, such as mold spores and dust mites. People with allergies and sensitive respiratory systems may benefit from the improved air quality.
5. Results in Quieter Operation
The lower operating level of the dry mode means the air conditioning system runs quieter. This can be especially beneficial for those who prioritize noise reduction over other things.
6. Preserves Furnishings and Artifacts
Humidity can damage moisture-sensitive items, including books and artworks. Using dry mode on your AC helps protect these valuable possessions against moisture-related damage.
When to Use the Dry Setting on Air Conditioning
The best time to use dry mode includes:
- After rain or in humid climates: After rain, humidity levels can spike. This is the perfect time to curb the humidity in your home by activating your AC’s dry setting. This setting could prove extremely useful for those who live in humid climates. If you live in a humid environment and want to install a new air conditioning unit, prioritize a unit with this feature.
- Transitional seasons, like spring and fall: Changing seasons can result in unpredictable and constantly fluctuating weather. The dry mode can help whenever high humidity arises.
- During mild weather: Balmy, mild days are often comfortable but may include high humidity levels. The dry setting lets you lower the humidity and temperature to create a more relaxing and comfortable environment inside your home.
How Long to Use Dry Mode
It is not recommended to keep the dry mode on for more than two hours at a time. While the dry mode is extremely beneficial and results can be felt almost immediately, it should not be kept on for too long. Using the dry mode for longer than the recommended time can cause issues such as dry skin, cracking in the drywall, and lackluster indoor plant health.
How Dry Mode Affects the AC Drain Pan
In dry mode, moisture collected inside the house condenses on the evaporator coil and drips into the AC drain pan. Although the drain pan is designed to handle condensate effectively, problems can occur if it is rusted or clogged.
Your AC drain pan should be inspected at least once each month to ensure it is working effectively and to prevent overflows that could damage your AC unit. Randazzo Heating, Cooling, and Electrical offers AC maintenance and pan treatments to keep your drain pan free of mold and slime that could cause blockages.
The Difference Between Dry Mode and Cooling Mode
The cooling mode for your air conditioning system will reduce the actual temperature in your home. It is also much more powerful and faster than the dry mode’s slower operation. The only function of dry mode is to remove humidity in the air. It might not even lower the temperature. However, once the dry mode kicks in, you’ll feel cooler and more comfortable because of the lower humidity.
Get the Best Local Air Conditioning Services in Macomb and Metro Detroit
If you are looking for local air conditioning services in the Macomb and metro Detroit areas, look no further than Randazzo Heating, Cooling, and Electrical.
Whether you want a new air conditioning system with a dry mode setting or require maintenance or repairs, we believe in delivering the best heating and cooling services to our customers. At Randazzo Heating, Cooling, and Electrical, we offer many air conditioning services, including installation, replacement, repair, and maintenance, to homeowners in the southeast Michigan region.
Get in-home comfort with an AC that cools and dehumidifies your home. Schedule online with Randazzo today!
Last Updated on March 11, 2025 at 9:40AM EST
