Ohio gets pretty humid, especially in the summer. That hot, wet, sticky feeling isn’t just uncomfortable; it can also be bad for your health. However, if you overcompensate and push humidity levels too far the other way, that’s not good either. Let’s explore the effects of humidity that’s too high or too low and find out how to achieve a normal humidity level in a home.
Too High or Too Low
Environments with high humidity foster mold, mildew, and other contaminants. This can cause breathing problems and exacerbate allergies and asthma. Bacteria thrives in humid places, increasing the likelihood of illness. It also can lead to clammy skin or excessive sweating. High humidity also increases your energy bills by making the temperature feel hotter than it is.
Low humidity is no better. Dry environments foster viruses. Low humidity leads to sore throats, chapped lips, and static electricity. It causes dry, cracked skin, as well as dry, cracked furniture. It can even lead to dehydration.
Achieving Normal Humidity
The normal humidity level in a home is between 30% and 50%. This is called the Goldilocks zone: not too wet and not too dry. How do you keep humidity in the Goldilocks zone? Your HVAC system dehumidifies the air. However, on really humid days, it might not be enough. Thus, you need a whole-house dehumidifier.
A whole-house dehumidifier integrates directly into your HVAC system, drawing moisture out of the air. It also comes with a humidistat, which lets you set a normal humidity level. By adjusting humidity levels, you can improve your indoor air quality, reducing allergies, asthma, and illness. You can also reduce your bills. A normal humidity level will keep your home healthy and comfortable.
A normal humidity level in a home is just the beginning. For quality heating and cooling solutions for Dayton and the surrounding area, contact Ace Hardware Home Services.
