Why Is My Lake Charles Home So Humid Even With the AC On?

How humid is it here?

Lake Charles ties as the most humid city in the contiguous United States, averaging 90% humidity in the morning and 72% in the afternoon, with more than 57 inches of rain a year.

Measure it

A simple hygrometer costs little and shows indoor humidity. Above 60% for long periods invites mold and dust mites.

Fan setting

Set the thermostat fan to 'Auto'. On 'On', it keeps blowing over the wet coil after cooling stops, putting moisture back into the air.

Oversized systems

An AC that's too big cools quickly and shuts off before drying the air. A load calculation shows the right size for your home.

Hidden moisture sources

Leaky ducts pulling attic air, unvented bathroom fans, and dryer vents that don't reach outside all add humidity.

Fixes

System tuning, a variable-speed system or a whole-home dehumidifier. See humidity control.

Does running the AC colder help?

Not much. A lower setting makes the system run longer, which removes some moisture, but it costs more and can leave rooms cold and damp. Fixing airflow, sizing or adding a dehumidifier works better.

Vacant homes

An empty house with the AC off in summer can grow mold within weeks. Keep the system on at a moderate setting or use a dehumidifier.

Crawl spaces and slabs

Homes on raised foundations can draw damp air up from a crawl space. A vapor barrier on the ground and sealed vents, done properly, keep that moisture out of the living space.

More HVAC guides

• How Do I Protect My AC Before a Hurricane in Lake Charles?
• My AC Isn't Cooling. What Can I Check First?
• What Do I Do If My AC Drain Line Is Clogged?
• How Often Should I Change My AC Filter in Lake Charles?
• How Do I Hire a Licensed HVAC Contractor in Louisiana?