As summer approaches, controlling the humidity indoors can be just as important as controlling the temperature when it comes to staying cool and comfortable. But what exactly is the ideal humidity setting for your home? 

 

What is humidity?

As you may have guessed, humidity is the amount of water vapor in the air! It’s measured in terms of relative humidity, which is the ratio of the amount of water vapor in the air compared to the maximum amount of water vapor that the air could hold.

 

How does humidity affect our comfort?

Humidity affects our comfort levels by making us feel either too hot or too cold. When we are in a humid environment, our sweat does not evaporate quickly and our body has difficulty cooling off, making us feel hotter than we actually are. In dry environments, our sweat evaporates quickly, but the lack of moisture in the air can make us feel colder than we actually are.

 

Issues with high humidity

When the humidity is too high, it can cause condensation to build up on windows, walls, and other surfaces, leading to mold growth and other problems. High humidity levels can also make it difficult to breathe and can cause skin irritations.

 

Issues with low humidity

On the other hand, when the humidity is too low, it can cause dryness in the air, which can lead to sinus issues and other health problems. Additionally, low humidity can cause the wood and furniture in your home to crack and shrink.

 

Finding the ideal humidity setting

Humidity levels that are too high or too low can cause major issues in your home, including mold growth, difficulty breathing, and discomfort, which is why it’s crucial to maintain a moderate level of humidity inside your home! The ideal humidity range for your home is generally between 30 and 50 percent relative humidity. This range allows for the most comfort and helps to prevent the growth of mold and other allergens.

 

In order to maintain the ideal humidity level, you’ll need to invest in a humidifier to accurately measure and monitor the levels to make adjustments as needed. There are a variety of humidifiers on the market, so be sure to do your research to find the one that best suits your needs.

 

By following these tips, you can ensure that your home is at the ideal humidity level for maximum comfort and health. If you have any further questions, contact our team of professional HVAC technicians today to ensure that your humidity levels are properly maintained and safe!