In moisture control, what is the effect of high humidity in a commercial space?

High humidity in a commercial space has significant implications, especially regarding energy costs. When humidity levels are elevated, it increases the workload of air conditioning systems. These systems need to work harder to remove moisture from the air to maintain comfortable and safe indoor conditions. This extra effort leads to higher energy consumption and, consequently, increased energy costs for the business.

In addition to the energy cost implications, high humidity can cause discomfort among occupants and can contribute to various problems, such as mold growth and structural issues, but the primary focus here is on the financial impact related to energy expenditure. The other options do not reflect the general consequences of high humidity; for instance, it often results in decreased comfort levels and can negatively affect air quality and material performance.