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 jump to the idea of undesirable weather outside. But, it is strongly advocated that your indoor space holds a humidity level between 30 and 50 percent. What exactly does that mean? The air inside your home 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 been in the situation, you have probably at least heard about the influence humidity can have on how the temperatures feel outside. An 80-degree day in one location 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 might have the ability to set your thermostat at a higher temp and maintain your home comfort, which could provide you with 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 make your skin feel cold and itchy and develop sore throats and chapped lips. The amount of static electricity increases too, so you’ll find yourself getting hit with little shocks every time you touch a doorknob.
Lack of moisture takes a toll on the wood throughout your home, creating cracking and shrinking in your trim, floors and furniture. The dry air also affects your body’s mucous membranes, enhancing your risk of developing a cold or breathing challenges.
What can you do?
Luckily, there are steps to help you watch and adjust 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 trouble 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 see any of the warning signs stated above, or if you want a professional to come out and review the humidity in your home, Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning can help. You can schedule an appointment by calling us at 203-772-8319. Our experts will answer your questions and help you identify next steps for attaining the best humidity level for your home comfort.