Typically, we key in on temperatures as it relates to home comfort, but the humidity levels in your home play a bigger role than you think. Generally when we hear the word humidity, we narrow in on the weather outside. But, it is encouraged to make sure your house holds a humidity level between 30 and 50 percent. What do those levels mean? The indoor air is holding between 30 to 50 percent of the maximum amount of moisture it can hold.
What takes place when your indoor air has too much or too little humidity?
Too Much Humidity
If you haven’t experienced it, you’ve likely at least heard about the impact humidity can have on how the temperatures feel outside. An 80-degree day in one location might feel cooler than an 80-degree day in an environment with heightened humidity. The same thing can happen in your home. If there is too much humidity, it makes it difficult 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 still feel comfortable, which could offer energy savings.
Too Little Humidity
While drier air might provide a break outdoors, too little humidity also has harmful implications inside the home. Dry air can trigger your skin to feel cold and itchy and end with sore throats and chapped lips. The amount of static electricity increases too, so you’ll notice that touching some items such as doorknobs will give you a little shock.
Lack of moisture can harm the wood within your home, creating cracking and shrinking in your floors, trim and furniture. The dry air also affects your body’s mucous membranes, heightening your risk of developing a cold or breathing challenges.
What can you do?
Luckily, there are steps to help you watch and adjust humidity levels in the home. A smart thermostat can help you measure the air in your home to understand humidity levels. And if you are having challenges getting in the 30 to 50 percent range for humidity, there are humidifiers and dehumidifiers to help improve the situation.
If you are noticing any of the warning signs mentioned above, or if you want a qualified technician to come out and review the humidity in your home, Air Alliance Team can help. You can schedule an appointment by contacting us at 636-206-4250. Our experts will answer your questions and help you determine next steps for attaining the best humidity level for your home comfort.