Usually, we key in on temperatures as it relates to home comfort, but the humidity levels inside your house play a bigger role than you might believe. Usually when we hear the word humidity, we think of the impact humidity has when we are outdoors. But, it is strongly advocated that your indoor space has a humidity level between 30 and 50 percent. What do those levels 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 you have 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 hot the weather feels. An 80-degree day in one location might feel cooler than an 80-degree day in a spot with more humidity. Humidity can impact the temps in your house as well. 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 be a relief outdoors, too little humidity also has undesirable implications inside the home. Dry air can cause your skin to be itchy and cold and develop sore throats and chapped lips. The amount of static electricity is enhanced, 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, causing cracking and shrinking in your floors, trim and furniture. The dry air also affects your body’s mucous membranes, heightening your risk of developing a cold or breathing challenges.
What can you do?
Fortunately, there are solutions out there to help you watch and control 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 trouble 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 a professional to come out and assess the humidity levels in your home, Age Heating & Cooling can help. You can schedule an appointment by reaching us at 208-578-4258. Our experts will review your challenges and help you identify next steps for reaching the best humidity level for your home comfort.