How can humidity levels impact HVAC system efficiency?

High humidity significantly impacts HVAC system efficiency by increasing cooling loads and decreasing comfort. When humidity levels are elevated, the air holds more moisture, making it feel warmer than it actually is. As a result, the HVAC system must work harder to remove this humidity from the indoor air to maintain a comfortable environment. This increased demand on the system can lead to higher energy consumption and operational costs, as the air conditioning unit has to run longer and more frequently to cool down the humid air.

Moreover, when humidity is high, it can lead to discomfort for occupants, as the body's ability to cool itself through evaporation of sweat is impaired. This might lead to lower indoor air quality and potentially create a preference for lower indoor humidity levels to enhance comfort, which further strains the HVAC system as it tries to achieve these conditions. This interplay between humidity, temperature, and perception of comfort is critical for understanding HVAC operation and efficiency.