Do Heat Pumps Dehumidify? What You Need to Know
If you live in Maine, you know that summer isn’t just about heat, it’s also about humidity. And if you're considering a heat pump or already have one, you might be wondering: Can a heat pump dehumidify my home?
The answer is: heat pumps can help reduce humidity, but they are not a substitute for a dedicated dehumidifier.
How Heat Pumps Handle Humidity
In cooling mode, heat pumps work by pulling warm air from your home, passing it over cold coils, and circulating cooler air back into your space. During this process, some moisture is naturally removed from the air as it condenses on the coil.
This means heat pumps can contribute to lower humidity levels while cooling, especially on hot days when they’re running frequently. However, the dehumidification effect is incidental, not the system’s primary goal.
What About Dry Mode?
Many modern heat pumps include a “Dry Mode” or “Dehumidify Mode.” This setting adjusts how the system runs, slowing the fan and adjusting compressor behavior, to maximize moisture removal without significantly changing the temperature.
While this mode can be helpful on muggy, mild days, it still doesn’t match the power or consistency of a dedicated dehumidifier. In larger homes or during periods of extreme humidity, Dry Mode may not be enough to make a noticeable difference.
Why It Matters
It’s important to understand that while heat pumps offer some humidity control, they’re not built to handle persistent or high volume moisture problems. If your home has issues like damp basements, musty smells, or high humidity even when it’s not hot outside, a standalone dehumidifier, or even a whole-home dehumidification system, may be necessary.
So, Do Heat Pumps Dehumidify?
Yes, but not to the same extent as a true dehumidifier. They can improve comfort during cooling, especially in smaller, well-sealed spaces. But they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution for serious moisture control.
Need Help Managing Humidity?
If you’re concerned about indoor humidity or wondering whether a heat pump is enough for your home, our team can help. We’ll assess your space and recommend the right combination of systems, so you stay cool, dry, and comfortable all summer long.
