Usually, we key in on temperatures when it comes to our home comfort, but the humidity levels inside your house play a bigger role than you might believe. Generally when we hear the word humidity, we think of the impact humidity has when we are outdoors. Nevertheless, it is strongly advocated that your indoor space has a humidity level between 30 and 50 percent. How do you measure those levels? The air inside your home 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 experienced it, you have probably at least heard about the impact humidity can have on how the temperatures feel outside. An 80-degree day in one area 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 more challenging 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 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 goes up as well, so you’ll find yourself getting hit with little shocks every time you touch a doorknob.
Lack of moisture impacts the wood throughout 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 getting a cold.
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 gauge the air in your home so you can see what the humidity levels are inside. And if you are having challenges getting in the 30 to 50 percent range for humidity, there are humidifiers and dehumidifiers that can provide additional support.
If you experience any of the warning signs stated above, or if you want a qualified technician to come out and review the humidity in your home, Tri County Climate Control LLC can help. You can arrange an appointment by calling us at 541-238-2797. Our experts will listen to your concerns and help you identify next steps for reaching the best humidity level for your home comfort.