There are several reasons why your window air conditioner might not be as effective at lowering humidity this summer compared to the previous summer:
Reduced Cooling Capacity: Over time, air conditioners can experience a decrease in cooling capacity due to wear and tear, clogged filters, or refrigerant leaks. If the air conditioner is not cooling as effectively as it used to, it may not be able to remove moisture from the air as efficiently, leading to higher humidity levels.
Environmental Factors: The weather and environmental conditions can vary significantly from one summer to another. If this summer is more humid or has different weather patterns, it can impact how well the air conditioner can dehumidify the air.
Incorrect Sizing: If the air conditioner is undersized for the room or space it's supposed to cool, it may struggle to keep up with the cooling demand and remove humidity adequately.
Increased Indoor Moisture Sources: If there are additional sources of moisture in your home, such as increased cooking or showering, leaky pipes, or higher humidity from external sources, the air conditioner may not be able to keep up with the additional moisture load.
Dirty Air Filters: Clogged or dirty air filters can restrict airflow, reducing the air conditioner's efficiency in removing moisture from the air. Regularly cleaning or replacing the air filters is essential to maintain optimal performance.
Improper Maintenance: Lack of regular maintenance, such as cleaning the coils and fins, can decrease the air conditioner's efficiency and performance.
Mechanical Issues: There might be underlying mechanical issues with the air conditioner that are affecting its ability to cool and dehumidify properly.
To address the issue, consider the following steps:
Check and clean the air filters and ensure proper airflow.
Clean the coils and fins to improve the air conditioner's efficiency.
Verify that the air conditioner is appropriately sized for the room or space it's cooling.
If you suspect a refrigerant leak or mechanical problem, contact a qualified HVAC technician to inspect and repair the unit.
Reduce indoor moisture sources and consider using a dehumidifier to complement the air conditioner's dehumidification capabilities.
If you've tried the above steps and the air conditioner still doesn't perform well, it might be time to consider replacing it with a newer and more efficient model or seek professional assistance to diagnose and fix the problem.