Usually, we key in on temperatures when it comes to our home comfort, but the humidity levels inside your house play a bigger role than you think. Normally when we hear the word humidity, we think of the impact humidity has when we are outdoors. However, it is strongly advocated that your indoor space maintains a humidity level between 30 and 50 percent. What exactly does that mean? The air inside your home is holding between 30 to 50 percent of the maximum amount of moisture it can hold.
What takes place when a home has too much or too little humidity?
Too Much Humidity
If you haven’t experienced it, chances are you have at least heard about the influence humidity can have on how hot the weather feels. An 80-degree day in one area might feel cooler than an 80-degree day in a spot with more humidity. The same thing can happen in your home. If there is too much humidity, it is harder for your body to monitor internal temperatures.
Dehumidified air feels cooler, so you may be able to set your thermostat at a higher temp and maintain your home comfort, which could offer energy savings.
Too Little Humidity
While drier air might feel good outdoors, too little humidity also has harmful implications inside the home. Dry air can cause your skin to be itchy and cold and result in sore throats and chapped lips. The amount of static electricity goes up as well, so you’ll notice that touching some items such as doorknobs will give you a little shock.
Lack of moisture impacts the wood throughout your home, causing cracking and shrinking in your trim, floors and furniture. The dry air also affects your body’s mucous membranes, heightening your risk of coming down with colds or having breathing difficulties.
What can you do?
However, there are solutions out there to help you watch and control humidity levels in the home. A smart thermostat can help you assess the air in your home so you can see what the humidity levels are inside. And if you are having difficulties getting in the 30 to 50 percent range for humidity, there are humidifiers and dehumidifiers that can provide additional support.
If you see any of the warning signs stated above, or if you want a professional to come out and assess the humidity levels in your home, Air-Right Energy Design, Inc. can help. You can schedule an appointment by reaching us at 703-260-1148. Our experts will listen to your concerns and help you determine next steps for attaining the best humidity level for your home comfort.