Understanding the Ideal Home Humidity Level
Homeowners typically spend a lot of time researching how to efficiently heat and cool their homes, but do you ever think about the importance of home humidity levels? What is the ideal humidity level for your home? Answering this question and learning how to control home humidity can be just as crucial to living comfortable as controlling the temperature.
What is Humidity and Why Does it Matter?
Before we discuss the perfect humidity level for your home, it is best to understand what it really is. Humidity can be described simply as the amount of water in the air, but it is a little more complex than that. In order to understand what it really is, we need to discuss the difference between absolute and relative humidity.
- Absolute Humidity – the measure of water vapor (moisture) in the air regardless of temperature
- Relative Humidity – the measure of water vapor (moisture) in the air BUT relative to temperature
When discussing home humidity, relative will give us the most accurate representation of moisture levels in the home. It measures the current level of water vapor in the air out of how moist the air could be. So, when you see a humidity reading of 40%, it simply means that the air around you is 40% as moist as it could be relative to the indoor temperature.
Problems Associated with Low and High Humidity
Finding the optimal humidity for your home is essential, because too much or too little can cause a number of issues. These issues can cause your home to be uncomfortable and cost you money in the process.
High Humidity Issues
- Dust Mites absorb moisture and proliferate in your home drawing in spiders and other insects
- Promotes the growth and spread of mold and mildew
- Moisture can worsen symptoms of allergies, asthma and insomnia
- Can damage furniture and fixtures
Low Humidity Issues
- Itchy and dry skin
- More susceptible to cold and other illnesses
- Damage to wood furniture, especially hardwood floors
- Drafty/cold spots within the home
High and low moisture levels can cause a number of issues in your home. So, what is the most ideal indoor level to keep your home at?
The Ideal Home Humidity Level & How to Achieve It
Every home is different, but a humidity level between 30 – 40% in the winter and between 50 – 60% in the summer are considered the ideal ranges for each season. A device called a humidistat gives you the ability to monitor and control home humidity levels. Additionally, installing a humidifier will be extremely beneficial especially in the winter months.
Keeping your home at the optimal humidity level is going to do wonders for your family’s comfort and will be crucial to the structural longevity of your home. Contact Same Day Heating, Cooling, Plumbing today with any questions or concerns regarding ideal home humidity conditions. One of our trained professionals is always happy to help!
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