Usually, we pay attention to temperatures when considering home comfort, but the humidity levels in your home play a bigger role than you think. Generally when we hear the word humidity, we jump to the idea of undesirable weather outside. But, it is recommended that your home holds a humidity level between 30 and 50 percent. How do you measure those levels? The air in your house is holding between 30 to 50 percent of the maximum amount of moisture it can hold.
What happens when you have 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 effect humidity can have on how hot it feels outside. An 80-degree day in one region might feel cooler than an 80-degree day in a spot with increased humidity. This can happen in your house, too. If there is too much humidity, it makes it difficult for your body to monitor internal temperatures.
Dehumidified air feels cooler, so you could set your thermostat at a higher temp and maintain your home comfort, which could offer energy savings.
Too Little Humidity
While drier air might be a relief outdoors, too little humidity also has harmful implications inside the home. Dry air can cause your skin to be itchy and cold and end with 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 throughout your home, initiating cracking and shrinking in your furniture, trim and even floors. The dry air also affects your body’s mucous membranes, heightening your risk of developing a cold or breathing challenges.
What can you do?
However, there are steps to help you watch and adjust humidity levels in the home. A smart thermostat can help you assess the air in your home so you can see what the humidity levels are inside. 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 see any of the warning signs mentioned above, or if you want an expert to come out and review the humidity in your home, Miller Climate Control LLC can help. You can arrange an appointment by calling us at 512-937-2001. Our experts will answer your questions and help you determine next steps for reaching the best humidity level for your home comfort.