Why Dry Mode Is Not Recommended- Sunshine Coast

Why You Should Never Use Dry Mode on Ducted Air Conditioning in Queensland

Dry mode on ducted air conditioning systems is often marketed as a solution for reducing indoor humidity, but in Queensland’s tropical climate, it’s a feature best avoided. Understanding how dry mode works and the potential risks associated with it is crucial for maintaining the health of your home and your air conditioning system.

As we head into the warmer Summer months, it is important to understand how best to use your ducted air conditioning system this Summer.

How Dry Mode Works

When you activate dry mode, the air conditioning system’s fan coil unit, located in your roof cavity, operates at a significantly reduced speed. The outdoor unit, which typically works to cool the air, runs minimally. This reduced activity is meant to help the system extract moisture from the air without overcooling the room. However, in doing so, the fan coil undergoes a cycle of freezing and thawing. The slow fan speed causes the coil to freeze, and as it thaws, it creates condensation, leading to moisture accumulation in the roof space.

Why Dry Mode is Problematic in Queensland

Queensland’s climate is already humid, with high moisture levels both indoors and outdoors. Using dry mode in such an environment exacerbates the issue by adding excess moisture to your roof cavity. The moisture generated by the freezing and thawing cycle of the fan coil does not evaporate quickly, leading to sweating pipes and persistent dampness. Over time, this can result in serious problems like mould and mildew growth in your roof cavity.

Mould and mildew thrive in warm, damp environments, and their growth can lead to structural damage, such as water-damaged ceilings, and significant health risks, including respiratory issues and allergies. Additionally, the excess moisture can damage your air conditioning system, leading to costly repairs.

Expert Advice: Avoid Dry Mode in Queensland

Given the risks associated with dry mode, it’s clear that this feature is not suitable for Queensland. Instead of using dry mode, focus on maintaining your air conditioning system with regular servicing and using it in cooling mode to effectively manage indoor humidity. This approach will help you avoid the potential pitfalls of dry mode, keeping your home safe, dry, and free from moisture-related damage.

In conclusion, while dry mode might seem like a convenient feature, it poses significant risks in Queensland’s humid climate. By understanding how dry mode works and the dangers it presents, you can make informed decisions about how to best use your ducted air conditioning system. For the health of your home and your family, it’s best to avoid dry mode altogether.