Humidity

Humidity

It is a constant battle trying to get the climate in your house just right. You’ve invested in new air purifiers, cleaned your ducts and always properly maintain your HVAC systems but there’s one thing that you may not have accounted for – the humidity level. The amount of moisture in the air can affect everything from the temperature to mold growth to the health of wooden furniture.

If you’ve ever heard someone refer to a particular climate as a “wet cold” or “dry heat” then you’ve encountered humidity at work on the temperature.

How to control humidity:

Humidifiers – Humidifiers are used to add moisture back into the air. In most places, they are typically used during the winter where humidity levels are below 35%. Humidifiers can be used to replenish moisture in your skin and will help you fight off dry nasal passages associated with allergies or colds. Having the right amount of moisture in the air will also help preserve wooden furniture or wooden floors as well since wood cracks and splinters when too dry.

Dehumidifiers – A dehumidifier removes moisture from the air and is typically used in summer months where the humidity is over 50%. Too much moisture can lead to mold growth and a serious health hazard. If you notice that you have condensation on your windows, musty smells or rotting wood, you may need a dehumidifier.

How do I measure my humidity?

There are ways to judge your humidity like some of the telltale signs mentioned above. Your body and your home are very good indicators. If you feel overly dried out and your wooden furniture is shrinking or cracking, the humidity level is probably too low. If you feel muggy inside and there is condensation, mold or wood rot in your house, your humidity level is probably too high. For an absolute result, though, an electronic moisture gauge called a hygrometer is used.

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