All About Humidity and the Effects It Has on Homes
Homeowners often wonder what humidity is and how it affects their homes. Humidity itself is the amount of water vapor that is concentrated in the air. In more simplified words, humidity is water that is in a gaseous state. Too much or too little humidity can cause damage to a home. This can range from mold and mildew to more serious structural issues.
Being aware and remaining focused will allow any homeowner to read the signs and symptoms of their home. Calling and partnering with a trusted HVAC company will allow every homeowner peace of mind by going over solutions for heating and cooling in their home.
The Importance of Understanding Humidity in the Home
Many individuals throughout society suffer from breathing issues. These can flare up when there is either too much or too little humidity. Just like people, a home can suffer from fluctuations in temperature, which can alter how much or how little moisture is inside.
The key to balancing humidity is to keep it in a range of 30% to 45% during the summer. Relative humidity around 40% is good during the winter months. Every room in a home will have a different humidity level, which can be found by using a device called a hygrometer.
Using a Humidifier
If it is too cold or the region has too low humidity, then having a humidifier will fix help fix these seven common issues:
- Chapped lips
- Dry skin
- Skin rashes
- Cracked or splintering wood items
- Feeling colder than normal
- Help prevent the growth of viruses
- Stuffy, clogged sinuses or bloody noses
Using a Dehumidifier
A dehumidifier is a fantastic tool for any homeowner who lives in hotter, wetter climates. When the air inside of a home is too wet, it can negatively affect the structural integrity. It can also cause other side effects to the overall health of oneself or family members due to the poor indoor air quality. Here are some of the things that a dehumidifier can help maintain and correct in a home:
- The warping and sticking of doors, floors, and other wood items
- Decrease the viability of mold and mildew by reducing the amount of moisture in the air
- Stops the build-up of condensation on pipes, windows, and other surfaces
- Helps prevent the circumstances and damp conditions in which cockroaches, millipedes, fleas, woodlice, and dust mites flourish
An average household hovers around 70% humidity or higher. This is a breeding ground for harmful bacteria to grow! If things are stuffy and feel sticky inside, now might be the time to call HVAC technicians.
About Excel Air Corporation
Excel Air Corporation began in 1999 as a family-owned and operated business. Today, it has excelled to the top of the service industry for HVAC needs with same-day service and trustworthy, highly skilled technicians. Call Excel Air Corporation today for HVAC services in the Escondido, CA area!
