Abstract: Methods and apparatus for controlling an HVAC system to more readily meet both the sensible (i.e. temperature) and latent (i.e. moisture removal) cooling loads of an inside space. Briefly, and in one illustrative embodiment, a cooling unit is activated to satisfy the sensible cooling demands of the inside space, and if after the sensible cooling demands have been satisfied, and it is determined that the latent cooling demands have not yet been met, both a cooling unit and a heating unit are activated to help provide additional latent cooling to the inside space. Both the cooling unit and the heating unit may be activated to help minimize the sensible cooling provided to the inside space during the drying cycle.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for more effectively managing humidity of an inside space using an air conditioner are provided. In one illustrative embodiment, the system determines whether the humidity level in an inside space is above a predetermined humidity threshold, and if so, changes a control parameter such as a minimum “on” time for the air conditioner. If the humidity level in the inside space is not above the predetermined humidity threshold, the control parameter is not changed, or changed less than when the humidity level is above the predetermined humidity threshold. Rather than changing (i.e. increasing) the minimum “on” time, it is contemplated that any control parameter that increases the “on” time of the air conditioner may be used including, for example, changing (i.e. decreasing) the maximum cycle rate allowed for the air conditioner.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for using humidity level to adjust the temperature set point of an HVAC system for increased occupant comfort. In one illustrative embodiment, the temperature set point for the inside space is moved downward when the humidity of the inside space rises above a predetermined humidity set point threshold value. In warm climates, this causes the air conditioner of the HVAC system to be activated, which lowers the temperature of the inside space to a new lower temperature set point. In some embodiments, the HVAC system retains the new lower temperature set point for a predetermined time period. The predetermined time period may be dependent on a number of factors, including whether the space is expected to occupied or unoccupied.