Usually, we focus on temperatures when considering home comfort, but the humidity levels within your indoor environment 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 encouraged to make sure your house has a humidity level between 30 and 50 percent. How do you measure those levels? The indoor air is holding between 30 to 50 percent of the maximum amount of moisture it can hold.
What takes place when you have 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 more 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 sustain comfort levels, which could provide you with energy savings.
Too Little Humidity
While drier air might provide a break outdoors, too little humidity also has undesirable implications inside the home. Dry air can make your skin feel cold and itchy and develop 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 takes a toll on the wood around your home, initiating 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?
However, there are steps to help you monitor and control 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 difficulties getting in the 30 to 50 percent range for humidity, there are humidifiers and dehumidifiers that offer a solution for getting to the right amount of humidity.
If you are noticing any of the warning signs listed above, or if you want a professional to come out and check out your home’s humidity levels, Contra Costa Heating & AC can help. You can arrange an appointment by reaching us at 510-343-9841. Our experts will review your challenges and help you identify next steps for attaining the best humidity level for your home comfort.