So what exactly is humidity?
Many associate the term ‘humid’ with the sticky discomfort experienced during tropical vacations, which is indicative of high outdoor humidity. However, both excessively high and low humidity levels can have an impact on us. Relative humidity measures the amount of moisture in the air relative to the maximum amount it can hold. Warmer air can contain more water vapor than cooler air.
What is healthy inhouse humidity?
Most individuals find a relative humidity range of 30 to 60 percent to be the most comfortable, with an ideal indoor humidity level of 30 to 50 percent. Low humidity levels result in very dry air, which heightens the likelihood of contracting airborne viruses such as the flu. This may be due to their increased survival in dry, cool conditions and the fact that irritated nasal passages can make it easier to contract viruses. Conditions like eczema may worsen, and dry skin can become a source of discomfort. Conversely, higher humidity levels in the home can foster conditions conducive to common asthma and allergy triggers, such as dust mites and mould.
Prevent High Humidity in Your House
High humidity in your home can lead to a variety of problems, such as:
- Mould and Mildew: Excess moisture is the perfect breeding ground for mould and mildew, which can damage surfaces and pose health risks, especially for individuals with allergies or respiratory issues.
- Wood and Furniture Damage: Humidity can cause wood to expand, distort, or decay, resulting in damage to floors, doors, and furniture.
- Dust Mites: These pests flourish in humid environments, which can exacerbate asthma and allergy symptoms.
- Condensation: Too much moisture can cause condensation on windows, walls, and ceilings, potentially leading to water damage and peeling paint.
- Health Complications: Continuous exposure to high humidity levels can lead to respiratory problems, skin irritation, and aggravated allergies.
- Odours: High humidity can lock in musty smells from mould or dampness, leaving your home smelling unpleasant.
- Energy Costs: Humid air feels hotter, which may increase the use of air conditioning and result in higher energy expenses.
It’s crucial to maintain balanced humidity levels to ensure your home’s comfort and structural integrity.
Preventing inhouse humidity
To combat high humidity in your home, consider implementing the following measures:
- Utilize dehumidifiers: These devices are effective in lowering moisture levels by extracting excess humidity from the air, particularly in areas prone to dampness such as basements and bathrooms.
- Improve ventilation: Promote adequate airflow in moisture-rich areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. Employ exhaust fans to expel steam generated from cooking, showering, or drying laundry.
- Address leaks: Promptly fix any leaks in the roof, walls, windows, or plumbing to avert water intrusion that can elevate indoor humidity.
- Install air conditioning: Air conditioning units can help decrease humidity by cooling the air and extracting moisture.
- Insulate your home: Effective insulation can prevent condensation, a contributor to indoor humidity.
- Use desiccants: Place moisture-absorbing materials such as silica gel in closets, cabinets, or other small, confined areas.
- Dry clothes outside to avoid adding moisture to the air indoors. If you must dry clothes inside, use a vented dryer or position them near an open window.
- Clean gutters regularly to prevent water from pooling near your home, which can increase indoor humidity.
- Monitor your indoor plants, as they can improve air quality but also contribute to excess humidity. Reduce the number of plants if necessary or ensure they are in well-ventilated areas.
Conclusion
Implementing these strategies can help you effectively manage and reduce indoor humidity levels, preventing potential issues.