Oftentimes, we pay attention to temperatures when it comes to our home comfort, but the humidity levels inside your house play a bigger role than most people think. Generally when we hear the word humidity, we think of the impact humidity has when we are outdoors. But, it is encouraged to make sure your house holds a humidity level between 30 and 50 percent. What exactly does that mean? The indoor air is holding between 30 to 50 percent of the maximum amount of moisture it can hold.
What occurs when your indoor air has too much or too little humidity?
Too Much Humidity
If you haven’t actually felt it, chances are you have at least heard about the influence 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 place with increased 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 might have the ability 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 negative implications inside the home. Dry air can make your skin feel cold and itchy and result in sore throats and chapped lips. The amount of static electricity goes up as well, so you’ll find yourself getting hit with little shocks every time you touch a doorknob.
Lack of moisture can harm the wood around your home, creating cracking and shrinking in your floors, trim and furniture. The dry air also affects your body’s mucous membranes, increasing your risk of developing a cold or breathing challenges.
What can you do?
Fortunately, there are options to help you monitor and manage humidity levels in the home. A smart thermostat can help you gauge the air in your home to see what levels you are coming in at. And if you are having difficulties 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 stated above, or if you want a qualified technician to come out and assess the humidity levels in your home, Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc can help. You can schedule an appointment by contacting us at 715-301-0256. Our experts will review your challenges and help you understand next steps for achieving the best humidity level for your home comfort.