This time of year in southwest Ohio, the humidity cranks up to some truly uncomfortable levels. And if you’re living in a home that doesn’t do a good job of keeping that moist air outside, you’re likely experiencing some tough days and tougher nights. Plus, a humid environment isn’t necessarily the healthiest way to live, considering the threat posed by mold growth.
Many homeowners rely on dehumidification equipment to remove excess moisture that your air conditioning isn’t able to eliminate. Whole-house dehumidifiers are available that work in tandem with your central HVAC system. Portable or room dehumidifiers can be used to reduce humidity in rooms or smaller areas.
Yet, you don’t have to rely on mechanical methods of dehumidifying your home. Natural means are also available either working alone or along with your dehumidifiers. Try the following strategies:
Don’t stay in the shower too long. This adds abundant moisture to the air and not just in the bathroom. At the very least, use the exhaust fan in the bathroom to remove as much moist air as possible.
When it’s muggy or rainy outside, close up your house. Leaving windows or doors open, even if the rain has cooled things down, lets moist air into your home. Effective air sealing of your home’s outer envelope is important for the same reason. A house that’s effectively sealed against the elements is also easier to cool and heat.
Effective ventilation is essential if you want to minimize humidity in the home. A balanced ventilation system (Heat Recovery or Energy Recovery ventilator – HRV or ERV) will ensure a constant exchange of fresh outside air with stale and moist indoor air, while in the case of the ERV, removing moisture from the incoming air.
Place a layer or small rocks over the dirt in which house plants are growing. This helps the soil retain moisture instead of allowing it to evaporate in the air.
For more advice on ways to reduce humidity in your Dayton-Springfield area home, or to discuss a whole-house dehumidification system, please contact us at Ace Hardware Home Services.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Dayton, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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