Usually, we focus on temperatures as it relates to home comfort, but the humidity levels within your indoor environment play a bigger role than most people think. Normally when we hear the word humidity, we narrow in on the weather outside. However, it is strongly advocated that your indoor space maintains a humidity level between 30 and 50 percent. How do you measure those levels? The air in your house is holding between 30 to 50 percent of the maximum amount of moisture it can hold.
What happens 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 influence humidity can have on how hot the weather feels. An 80-degree day in one area might feel cooler than an 80-degree day in place with increased humidity. Humidity can impact the temps in your house as well. If there is too much humidity, it is harder for your body to monitor internal temperatures.
Dehumidified air feels cooler, so you may be able 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 result in sore throats and chapped lips. The amount of static electricity goes up as well, so you’ll notice that touching some items such as doorknobs will give you a little shock.
Lack of moisture impacts the wood within your home, causing cracking and shrinking in your trim, floors and furniture. The dry air also affects your body’s mucous membranes, enhancing your risk of getting a cold.
What can you do?
However, there are steps to help you monitor and manage humidity levels in the home. A smart thermostat can help you assess the air in your home to see what levels you are coming in at. 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 experience any of the warning signs mentioned above, or if you want a professional to come out and review the humidity in your home, Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces can help. You can arrange an appointment by contacting us at 308-321-4703. Our experts will review your challenges and help you identify next steps for reaching the best humidity level for your home comfort.