As laymen, we never understood what the little droplet icon on our air conditioner remote means. That is dry mode on an air conditioner, and it is different from the standard cooling option.
There are many features of an air conditioners, and most of us are not fully aware of them. Dry mode is a lesser-known yet a powerful option that improves energy consumption and enhance indoor comfort by pulling the moisture out of the room. Smart people utilise this option when humidity levels are higher.
Keep reading to know more the dry mode feature on your air conditioner. This blog post will breakdown the feature and its benefits.
What Is The Dry Mode On An Air Conditioner?
Instead of turning your space into a cold icebox, dry mode works at a lower fan speed to carefully pull out the moisture from the air. The main difference between standard cooling feature and dry mode is that the former drops temperatures fast, while the latter reduces humidity.
When the droplet icon shows on your remote display, the fan functions at a lower speed. It allows humid air to accumulate into the unit which then passes over cold evaporator coils. The unit condenses the moisture from the air and release dry air back into the room.
Balanced humidity levels create a comfortable indoor environment and you don’t feel sticky and heavy when you enter the room.
The Difference
A sneak peek of the difference between the two modes is in the table below.
Standard Cooling Mode | Dry Mode |
Drops temperatures fast | Reduces moisture from the space rather than cooling aggressively |
Fans and compressors run at high speed | Fans run at lower speed |
Ideal for hot weather | Ideal when the weather is moderate but the air in the room feels heavy and sticky |
Higher energy consumption | Lower energy consumption |
When To Use Dry Mode
The availability of the feature doesn’t mean you should use it whenever you want. There are situations that we have listed below when using dry mode is a perfect idea.
Shower Spells
We all are familiar with a sticky and uncomfortable feeling when it is pouring outside. You don’t need standard cooling these days – just comfortable and breathable indoor environment. Dry mode is ideal for these situations as it removes all the moisture that your house traps during the rainy season
High Humidity Levels
Does the weather ever feel hotter than the actual reading? Moisture is the culprit. When humidity levels increases over 60%, that’s a reminder of too much water content in the air. There is no need to freeze the space with regular cooling option – dry mode feature will work just fine to make you feel comfortable.
Laundry Rounds
The use of washing machines and dryers increases humidity levels. On top of that, it is a complete disaster if you decide to dry clothes inside. Humidity is a perfect breeding ground for mould and bacteria, and nobody wants to experience musty and mouldy air indoors. Dry mode is an excellent choice on laundry days to trap all that moist air.
Is Dry Mode Beneficial?
Yes, it is.
Improved comfort and better sleep quality:
When humidity levels are lower, you start to sleep better. That sticky feeling means higher moisture content in the air, and it is quite uncomfortable. You sweat and your skin sticks to the sheets. All you have to do is activate the dry mode on your air conditioner, and the air won’t feel heavy anymore.
Lower energy consumption and reduced bills:
Your unit’s compressor functions at a lower speed and takes breaks. On the contrary, standard cooling works non-stop to act like a blast chiller. Switch to dry mode, and witness a significant reduction in your energy bills.
Reduced exposure to mould spores:
Damp and moist spaces allow mould to grow. While it doesn’t seem harmful, they wreak havoc to your health. You fall sick without knowing why. Dry mode traps humid air and stops mould to spread.
Protection for interiors:
High humidity levels can damage wooden furniture, mess with electrical appliances, and create peeling paint. Dry mode helps protect your furniture, appliance and overall interior.
Dry Mode vs Dehumidifier
There is a fine line because both function to remove excess moisture from the environment. The only difference is that dry mode is used to control moderate moisture while keeping the temperature comfortable, while a dehumidifier is used to remove high-capacity moisture. If you have to face humid conditions on a daily basis, go for dehumidifier for effective removal.
The Dry Mode On Your Air Conditioner Is Not Working?
To get effective results, close all doors and windows before switching to the dry mode and set moderate temperature. Do not repeatedly switch between modes and allow the mode to perform at its own pace. Also, don’t forget to clean air filters regularly for maximum efficiency.
If the dry mode still doesn’t work as effectively as it should, call Surrey Air for a detailed assessment of your air conditioner.
Summary
Dry mode is often an underrated feature on your air conditioner that many people don’t use. It is a highly beneficial feature when the air feels musty, heavy and sticky. Dry modes are to remove excess moisture from the environment while maintaining the temperature and consuming less energy. Use it during mild weather for comfortable indoor environment. For more information or guidance on how to use the feature, get in touch with our HVAC experts.
