What is the best indoor humidity level? How can you maintain a just-right moisture level inside of your home? The summertime is more than just hot – it’s humid. Take a look at what homeowners need to know about maintaining indoor air moisture balance, handling summer humidity, and using an HVAC system.
Why Should Homeowners Care About Humidity?
You pay attention to how hot or cold it is inside of your home. But how often do you think about the moisture content of the indoor air? Even though the temperature is a primary focus when it comes to home comfort systems, humidity, and dryness are major factors that homeowners should not ignore. The indoor air moisture content level is important for several reasons, including:
- Mold growth. To reduce the risks of mold growth, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that homeowners should keep their indoor humidity below 60 percent. Between 30 and 50 percent is the ideal level, according to the EPA.
- Pest problems. Not only can high humidity promote mold growth, but it can also attract pests to your property.
- Home comfort. Humid air feels sticky. Even if your home isn’t hot, a humid indoor environment can make you feel uncomfortable.
- Your health. High humidity can make it harder for some people to breathe. Likewise, dry incur air can make breathing difficult or lead to nasal and throat irritation.
- Your belongings. Both high and low moisture levels can cause some types of furniture and other home items to warp, rot, or crack.
Now that you know more about why you should care about the moisture level in your home, it’s time to take the next step and learn how to correct and maintain it.
How Can You Change the Humidity Level Inside of Your Home?
The HVAC system is your first line of defense. Even though your system may not have a built-in humidifier or dehumidifier, it can still help control the moisture level. Your central air conditioner does more than just cool your home. As it draws heat from the air, it also pulls moisture out. This helps to decrease the overall humidity level, leaving your home cool and comfortable.
To make the most of the AC system’s ability to control the indoor moisture level, make sure that the unit is energy efficient, operates correctly, and is the right size. While it might seem like a larger AC unit could cool your home and remove moisture more easily than a smaller option, this isn’t true. An air conditioner that is too large for the space may cycle on and off constantly. This can reduce the cooling capacity and leave your home humid.
Furthermore, poorly installed air conditioners, the wrong size air ducts, blocked supply or return vents, leaky air ducts, a blocked condenser unit (outside), or an incorrectly installed thermostat can also interfere with the AC system’s ability to cool and remove moisture from the interior air.
If you suspect any of these issues or notice that the air in your home feels too humid or too dry, contact an HVAC professional. A qualified contractor can inspect the system, look for problems, and repair your air conditioner.
Do You Need a Dehumidifier or Humidifier?
Even though your AC system can help to keep your home’s humidity level under control, it may need extra help. A whole-home dehumidifier can reduce the moisture level in the air and a humidifier can increase it. If you’re not sure which appliance will help your home, talk to a professional. The contractor can assess your home’s humidity needs and help you to make the best decision possible.
Do you want to learn more about home comfort systems and humidity levels? Contact Apollo Heating, Air & Plumbing for more information.
