If you live in an area where there is high humidity all the time, you have likely experienced high humidity in your home as well. Not only does high humidity cause you to feel sticky and damp, but it can also cause issues in your home as well. Fortunately, there are ways to control your home’s humidity, so that you can feel comfortable all year long.
Balancing your home’s humidity can seem difficult at first because you do not want too much humidity but you also do not want your home to be too dry either. Humidity, in moderation, is actually a good thing and something that is needed. Moisture levels in your home can get out of control quickly and cause dust mites, mold, bacteria, and more. It is important to understand how to control humidity and what steps you can take.
Below, we will go over some ways that you can quickly bring down the high humidity levels in your home.
Why Is There High Humidity in My Home?
High humidity in your home is not uncommon and occurs in many different homes. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Utilizing a gas heater in your home
- Taking long hot showers
- Running the dryer
- Not ventilating while cooking
The comfortability of your home is dependent on both the temperature and the moisture content within the home. Even if you are okay with a bit of humid air, not keeping it in check in the home can have devastating consequences.
Tips for Lowering High Humidity in Your Home
Humidity is present and more present in some areas than others, so you will definitely run into it. Per the EPA, indoor humidity levels should be somewhere between 30 percent to 60 percent. If your home reaches 80 percent or more, you could run into problems with viruses, mold, fungus, and even other respiratory illnesses.
If you have found that there is too much humidity in your home, you can tackle it utilizing the tips below.
1. Make Sure Windows Are Insulated
The quality of your home’s windows will directly impact the humidity levels inside. Poor-quality windows tend to allow more humidity into the home and can help with the formation of mold. If you do have poor-quality windows or windows that are outdated, you should consider replacing them with something more energy efficient and newer. By doing this, you will naturally lower the humidity levels within the home and prevent any extra moisture from making its way in.
If you have windows that are in good condition, you can add window caulk or a sealant to them to help prevent any humidity problems.
2. Get a Dehumidifier
It is much easier to prevent high humidity than it is to deal with the effects that high humidity can have on your home. It is also a lot cheaper too. Mold remediation can cost anywhere from $1,200 up to $3,000 or more depending on the extent of mold present.
There are several options available when you shop for a dehumidifier from small ones up to whole home systems. No matter which one you choose, each is designed to capture any water particles that are present in the home’s atmosphere.
When you choose a dehumidifier, make sure you choose one with good reviews. A dependable one is much better than one that will break down and require replacement. You want to make sure that the dehumidifier can bring down the level of humidity in your home.
If you choose a whole home dehumidifier, it is recommended that you have it installed by a professional who understands where to place it and how to properly install it.
3. Have Your HVAC System Maintained
Keeping your HVAC system maintained can help you control the humidity levels in your home. You should have the system maintained at least twice a year. While it will help with humidity, having your HVAC system maintained also allows you to catch any issues early on to avoid huge repair bills later on down the road.
You should replace your AC filters monthly as well. If you find that your AC is not working efficiently, you should have it inspected and repaired. You can expect AC repairs to cost anywhere from $150 up to $500 or more.
4. Use DIY Humidifying Hacks
Being proactive will assist you best in keeping your home’s humidity levels under complete control. There are affordable DIY tactics you can employ to assist you. Of course, you do not want to use these tactics in place of any other options, but as a complement to the other options.
One way to help reduce moisture in the air is to keep a gallon of baking soda or rock salt in the room. Another option is non-silica gel. This gel is water-soluble, which means it will absorb the moisture present in your home.
5. Keep Your Air Circulating
Floor fans, ceiling fans, and circulators can assist in moving the air around in your home, which will not only make the area cooler for you but will help ensure lower humidity levels too.
You should also check any areas that are exposed to a lot of moisture such as the kitchen and bathroom. Check to make sure that the area is well-ventilated, and that moisture is not being left behind.
Circulated air is better air, so do your best to keep the air moving as much as you can. Remember, if moisture is unable to stay in one place, it makes it much harder for it to collect, build up, and cause problems for you.
How to Measure Your Home’s Humidity Levels
There are ways for you to measure the humidity levels in your home and these measurements will help you better understand what steps you need to take next.
First, you can purchase a hygrometer. This is one of the easier ways to test the humidity level in your home. You can usually find these at local home improvement stores and they are affordable. You can place this thermometer into each room of your home and then read the humidity level displayed. Ideally, you want your humidity level to be below 60 percent.
Another good test is the ice cube test as it will provide you with very quick results. To do this test, fill up a glass with water and then place a small handful of ice cubes inside. Let it sit on the counter for about 5 minutes and then look at it. If you notice condensation on the outside of the glass, the humidity level in your home is high.
Some other signs that the humidity is high in your home include getting shocked when touching a door knob, moisture on the inside of your windows, very dry houseplants even after watering them, and a mildew or mold scent emanating from a room. You may also notice that the pain on the wall peels or an increase in your allergy flareups.
Get Your Home’s Humidity Under Control
When summertime comes around and high humidity hits hard, it can be an experience that is unpleasant and a pain. Unfortunately, there are several negative consequences that high humidity can have on your home too. If you are unsure of whether you have high humidity or not, you will want to have your air quality checked. This test can cover several different things such as allergens in the home or even if mold is present.
By taking steps, like the ones above, to prevent high humidity in your home, you will likely be able to better protect your home’s interior paint, structure, and avoid both mold and pests.
Contact a local professional who can assist you in determining whether there is high humidity in your home or not. A good and thorough evaluation can help you better gain control over the situation.