ALL ABOUT HEALTHY AND COMFORTABLE HUMIDITY LEVELS

Just like temperature, humidity also plays a massive role in your home comfort. Whether low or high, extreme humidity has multiple effects on your house, health, and comfort. Thus, you shouldn't leave humidity control to nature — take measures into your hands and maintain proper humidity.

Below is an overview of the significance of humidity control — and how to achieve it.

Right Humidity Levels
The right humidity level is a range and not a single percentage. The ideal humidity level depends on various factors, such as:

• The season (that determines both temperature and outside humidity)
• Your personal preferences
• Your clothing

However, many people agree that good humidity levels range should be 40% to 60%.

Dangers of Improper Humidity
Either extremely low or high humidity levels are dangerous. Below are some of the dangers of improper humidity.

Discomfort
Many people feel uncomfortable if the humidity is either too low or high. Extremely low humidity induces dry skin and itchiness. Extremely high humidity causes your skin clammy and hot.

Health Problems
Extreme humidity levels affect your immune system and the level of pathogens in your home. For example:

• High humidity encourages mold growth
• Both high and low humidity encourages the growth of different microorganisms
• Low humidity increases your susceptibility to colds

The health problems might be worse if you have a preexisting medical condition.

Structural Damage
Extreme humidity can damage your house plus its contents. For example, low humidity dries wood and increases its risk of cracking and breaking. High humidity leads to peeling paint, corrosion, and swelling of wood, among other issues.

Pest Infestation
Many pests thrive in moist areas, so the risk of pest infection increases with humidity. The pests can spread germs in your house or damage your belongings.

Sleep Problems
Extreme humidity affects sleep both directly and indirectly. For example, the discomfort of extreme humidity can affect your natural sleep rhythm. Dampness, dry skin, and even humidity-induced allergy can also interfere with your sleep quality.

Management Techniques
Humidity control requires a multi-pronged approach. Below are some tips that can help.

Proper AC Sizing
The AC contributes to humidity control by removing some moisture from the air when it's running. An oversized AC runs short cycles and doesn't remove adequate moisture from the air. Let an AC technician design and install your system; avoid DIY modifications. Consult a contractor if you modify your house and need to modify the AC too.

HVAC Maintenance
Maintain your HVAC system for proper humidity control. For example, ensure nothing blocks the AC drainage channel. Such blockages can lead to condensation spillage and high humidity. You should also change the air filter, ensure the registers are clear, and avoid duct damage since they can all interfere with the AC's operations; and humidity control, by extension.

Humidifier or Dehumidifier Use
The humidifier increases humidity while a dehumidifier decreases humidity. Use the right one, depending on your humidity levels. For example, you can use a dehumidifier to lower humidity during the hot, humid summers. Don't forget to switch off the humidifier once the humidity begins to fall.

Proper Ventilation
Proper ventilation encourages air circulation, which aids in humidity control. For example, ventilating the bathroom prevents water accumulation that can lead to high humidity. Consult a contractor on active ventilation if your house is unusually stuffy.

Hopefully, you have not been suffering from extreme humidity issues. Contact Dick Kearsley Service Center if you suspect humidity control problems. We will diagnose the cause of the issues and help you find a long-lasting solution. We have been in the HVAC industry for over 50 years and have the relevant skills and experience.