What Is the Dry Mode on an Air Conditioner?

Dry Mode Operation

• When your air conditioner is in dry mode, the device's fan and inner components are running, but the unit is not blowing out cold air. Instead, air passes through the device, humidity condenses on the unit's evaporator and drier air exits the device. The drier air fills the room or area where the air conditioner is located. This dehumidification process removes some moisture from the room or area but not as much as a standalone dehumidifier. The dry mode also consumes less electrical energy than the cool mode.

Dehumidifier

• If you have a large room or area you need to dehumidify, purchase and use a standalone dehumidifier instead of using your air conditioner's dry mode. Dehumidifiers are available at hardware, home improvement and retail stores, as well as online outlets specializing in appliances and air conditioners.

Switching Modes

• You can safely switch from dry mode to cool mode or other modes on your home or business's air conditioner without any problems occurring within the unit. You do not have to power off the unit or wait for a period of time before switching modes. Your air conditioner will immediately switch to the mode you want.

Dry Mode vs. Fan Mode

• Not all air conditioners contain a dry mode feature, and setting your air conditioner to fan mode is not the same. The fan mode outputs cool air to a room or area but can't remove any moisture. If your air conditioner doesn't have a dry mode, you cannot purchase a component that will add the feature.