Expert Tips from Bay Air Heating & Cooling | Serving Marin County & San Francisco
Living near the water in beautiful areas like Sausalito, Tiburon, Mill Valley, and San Francisco means stunning views and refreshing breezes. But it also brings something less enjoyable: persistent indoor humidity. If your home often feels clammy or damp, you’re likely battling the effects of coastal air.
At Bay Air Heating & Cooling, we help Bay Area homeowners reclaim indoor comfort by addressing humidity and moisture issues. Here’s what you need to know.
Why Coastal Homes Feel Sticky
The closer your home is to the coast, the more likely it is to trap humid air-even with the windows shut. Here’s why:
Moist marine air seeps into your home, raising indoor humidity levels
Salt in the air can corrode HVAC components and reduce system efficiency
Warm, damp conditions force your AC to work overtime to cool and dehumidify
Over time, this leads to that uncomfortable sticky feeling on your skin, furniture, or walls- and may even encourage mold or mildew if left unchecked.
Your HVAC System: Your First Defense Against Humidity
Your air conditioner does more than cool your home- it also helps remove excess moisture. But if it’s not maintained properly, its ability to dehumidify drops significantly.
Here’s how to boost its performance:
- Replace air filters monthly during warmer months
- Clean evaporator coils at least twice a year
- Adjust fan speed for longer air-to-coil contact, improving moisture removal
If your AC runs constantly but your home still feels damp, it might be time for a system check or upgrade.
When to Add a Dehumidifier
Sometimes your HVAC system needs a helping hand- especially in high-moisture areas like:
- Bathrooms
- Basements or crawlspaces
- Laundry rooms
- Attics or rooms above garages
A whole-home dehumidifier can integrate directly with your HVAC system to keep your humidity levels in the ideal 40–50% range, improving both comfort and air quality. Bay Air Heating & Cooling can help you choose the right solution for your home.
Simple Habits That Make a Big Impact
Small daily routines can help manage humidity:
- Run kitchen & bathroom exhaust fans consistently
- Make sure your dryer vents outdoors, not into the home
- Let in natural sunlight to reduce mildew
- Keep your home clean- dust and dirt hold moisture
- Avoid leaving windows open during peak humidity hours
Seasonal Tips for Coastal Comfort
Stay ahead of sticky air by following this seasonal HVAC maintenance checklist:
Spring: Schedule a tune-up and check for salt buildup
Summer: Monitor indoor humidity and add dehumidification as needed
Fall: Seal gaps around doors and windows to block moisture intrusion
Winter: Inspect attics, crawlspaces, and walls for hidden condensation or leaks
Need Help? Call Bay Air Heating & Cooling Today
If you’re tired of that damp, sticky feeling inside your coastal home, Bay Air Heating & Cooling has solutions. From system adjustments to full dehumidification installs, we help homeowners throughout Marin County and San Francisco breathe easier and live more comfortably.
📞 Call us today to schedule a humidity check or HVAC tune-up!
Your comfort is our priority.