Usually, we pay attention to temperatures as it relates to home comfort, but the humidity levels inside your house play a bigger role than most people think. Normally when we hear the word humidity, we jump to the idea of undesirable weather outside. But, it is encouraged to make sure your house has 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 happens when a home has too much or too little humidity?
Too Much Humidity
If you haven’t been in the situation, chances are you have at least heard about the impact humidity can have on how hot it feels outside. An 80-degree day in one location might feel cooler than an 80-degree day in a spot with heightened humidity. The same thing can happen in your home. If there is too much humidity, it is harder 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 maintain your home comfort, which could also result in 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 is enhanced, so you’ll experience more shocks when touching doorknobs and other items.
Lack of moisture impacts 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, increasing your risk of getting a cold.
What can you do?
However, there are options to help you watch and adjust humidity levels in the home. A smart thermostat can help you assess 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 experience any of the warning signs stated above, or if you want an expert to come out and review the humidity in your home, Olde Towne Heating & Air can help. You can book an appointment by contacting us at 843-485-0967. Our experts will answer your questions and help you identify next steps for reaching the best humidity level for your home comfort.