Oftentimes, we key in on temperatures when it comes to our home comfort, but the humidity levels within your indoor environment play a bigger role than most people think. Generally when we hear the word humidity, we narrow in on the weather outside. Nevertheless, it is recommended that your home has a humidity level between 30 and 50 percent. What exactly does that mean? The air in your house 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, you have probably at least heard about the effect humidity can have on how hot it feels outside. An 80-degree day in one area 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 maintain your home comfort, which could also result in 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 trigger your skin to feel cold and itchy and result in sore throats and chapped lips. The amount of static electricity is enhanced, so you’ll notice that touching some items such as doorknobs will give you a little shock.
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, increasing your risk of getting a cold.
What can you do?
However, there are options to help you watch and manage humidity levels in the home. A smart thermostat can help you measure the air in your home to understand humidity levels. And if you are having trouble getting in the 30 to 50 percent range for humidity, there are humidifiers and dehumidifiers that can provide additional support.
If you see any of the warning signs stated above, or if you want a professional to come out and assess the humidity levels in your home, Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning can help. You can book an appointment by contacting us at 204-272-8128. Our experts will review your challenges and help you determine next steps for reaching the best humidity level for your home comfort.