Why Does Proper Relative Humidity for Your Home Matter?

To most people, humidity is rarely in the conversation when trying to make your home a more comfortable place to live in. We usually rearrange or buy better furniture, upgrade the decor, or repaint the walls first. Having the wrong humidity level in your home can cause personal discomfort and damage to your household. Let’s discuss what humidity is and why having a proper relative humidity instrument is essential for your home.

What Is Humidity and How Does It Work?

Humidity is defined by the amount of water vapor in the air. The higher the temperature, the more water vapor the air can hold. Humidity is a natural part of the atmosphere, as water vapor enters the atmosphere by evaporating from bodies of water on the Earth’s surface including lakes and oceans.

It is an important part of the water cycle, as water vapor is continuously generated by evaporation and removed by condensation. When the temperature is higher, the air can hold more water vapor, meaning that the warmer the climate, the higher the humidity level can be.

What Is Relative Humidity and How Is It Measured?

Relative humidity (RH) is the ratio that is expressed as a percentage of the amount of water vapor present in the air to the greatest amount possible at the same temperature. Humidity is measured using a hygrometer, a tool that utilizes various materials and measurements to gauge a room or space’s level of water vapor. 

Signs of Improper Humidity Levels

Maintaining the correct humidity level in your home is vital for your comfort, health, and the integrity of your home. However, it’s not always easy to tell when the humidity is too high or too low unless you’re actively monitoring it. Here are some common signs that can indicate improper humidity levels:

5 Signs of High Humidity Levels

1. Condensation on Windows and Mirrors

Condensation on windows and mirrors is a visible sign of high humidity. This happens when moist air meets a cold surface and turns into liquid.

2. Mold and Mildew Growth

Humidity levels above 55% to 60% can lead to the growth of mold. If the humidity levels are above 70% you can possibly see mold growth in hours. Mold can grow anywhere that has elevated levels of humidity. 

Mold is often found in bathrooms and basements due to high humidity levels from showers, baths, sinks, and toilets. If mold does grow on a ceiling or wall the humidity levels are extremely high and will likely continue growing if action is not taken to reduce the levels. 

3. Musty Odors

One way to detect high levels of humidity in your home is by being attentive to a musty or damp smell. This odor can indicate hidden mold or mildew that thrives in moist environments. Identifying and addressing the source of the humidity can help prevent potential health issues and damage to your home.

4. Allergy Symptoms

High humidity levels can intensify allergy symptoms by fostering an environment where allergens flourish. Mold spores and dust mites, for instance, thrive in moist conditions. When the air is damp, these allergens proliferate rapidly, raising the likelihood of allergic reactions like sneezing and itchy eyes.

5. Peeling Wallpaper or Blistering Paint

High humidity can cause wallpaper to peel away from the wall or paint to blister as the moisture seeps into wall materials.

4 Signs of Low Humidity Levels

1. Dry Skin and Irritated Airway

When the humidity levels in your home drop too low, the dry air can have immediate and uncomfortable effects on your body, especially on your skin and respiratory system. Low humidity reduces moisture from the air, which in turn pulls moisture from your skin and mucous membranes. This loss of hydration can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms.

2. Static Electricity

The level of static electricity in your home is affected by the relative humidity. The moisture in the air acts as a natural conductor, grounding any potential static charge and thus reducing static electricity. A static charge is only produced when the relative humidity is below 40%.

3. Cracking Wood

Wood furniture, hardwood floors, and even musical instruments can crack or shrink when the air is too dry, as the moisture they contain is drawn out into the air.

4. Persistent Cold Symptoms

When the air is dry, it can dry out the mucous membranes in your nose and throat. These membranes are important for trapping and getting rid of viruses and bacteria. When they’re dry, they’re not as good at doing this, which can make you more likely to get sick and can make colds last longer.

What Is the Ideal Humidity in a Home?

A humidity level that is around 50% and no higher is the ideal indoor humidity level to maintain in a home during warm summer months.  In colder winter months, the humidity level may need to be adjusted depending on the outdoor temperature.

Here’s a quick guide on what your home’s humidity level should be compared to outdoor temperature:

• 20˚F and 50˚F, indoor humidity levels should be less than 40%
• 10˚F and 20˚F, indoor humidity levels should be less than 35%
• 0˚F and 10˚F, indoor humidity levels should be less than 30%
• -10˚F and 0˚F, indoor humidity levels should be less than 25%
• -20˚F and -10˚F, indoor humidity levels should be less than 20%
• -20˚F or lower, indoor humidity levels should be less than 15%

What Can Be Done to Reduce the Humidity in a Home?

There are several things that can be done to reduce humidity levels and prevent mold growth:

• Use a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air
• Make sure that all appliances and fixtures are properly vented
• Fix any leaks or water damage that may be present
• Keep the home clean and free of clutter
• Open windows and doors to allow air to circulate

Maintain Proper Relative Humidity Levels in Your Home for Each Season

The challenge of keeping your home’s humidity at a comfortable level fluctuates with the changing seasons. Each season brings its own set of humidity challenges, and understanding how to adjust for these changes can help maintain a healthy, comfortable living environment all year round. Here are some seasonal tips for managing your home’s humidity:

Spring Season

• Monitor for Increased Humidity: As temperatures rise, so does the potential for increased indoor humidity. Use dehumidifiers or your air conditioning system to remove excess moisture.
• Ventilation: Open windows on dry, breezy days to increase air circulation and reduce indoor humidity levels.

Summer Season

• Use Air Conditioning: Air conditioners not only cool the air but also remove moisture. Ensure your AC unit is properly serviced to efficiently manage humidity.
• Avoid Indoor Line Drying: Drying clothes indoors can significantly raise humidity levels. Try to dry clothes outside or use a dryer during the humid summer months.

Fall Season

• Prepare for Heating: Before using your heating system, have it checked and cleaned. Keep in mind that heating can reduce indoor humidity so you may need to use a humidifier during the fall.
• Seal Leaks: Make sure that windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent cold, dry air from entering and further reducing indoor humidity.

Winter Season

• Use Humidifiers: Combat the dryness caused by heating systems with humidifiers to add necessary moisture back into the air.
• Keep Hygrometer Handy: Use a hygrometer to regularly check indoor humidity levels. Aim to keep humidity around 30-40% to avoid condensation on windows.

Year-Round Humidity Tips

• Ongoing Maintenance: Make sure to regularly check and maintain your HVAC system as well as any humidifiers or dehumidifiers. Clean or replace filters to ensure that these systems are functioning efficiently.
• Staying Informed: Keep an eye on the weather and adjust your indoor humidity management strategies accordingly. Local weather patterns can sometimes affect your home’s internal environment.

By adapting your humidity control tactics to the changing seasons, you can better protect your health and home from the adverse effects of too much or too little humidity. These adjustments will help create a more stable and comfortable atmosphere throughout the year.

Final Thoughts

Overall, it’s important to maintain the right humidity level in your home as outdoor temperatures change. Poor humidity can cause respiratory issues, ruin your art, and damage wood, electronics, or other aspects of your home which can end up being a costly endeavor.

If you’re interested in a humidity instrument that is capable of measuring humidity and can double as a showpiece for your home, please feel free to contact us today!