Humidity can be a nuisance around your home. Not only are high indoor humidity levels uncomfortable, but they can also cause mold growth and affect your health. If you suspect excessive humidity in your space, follow this guide for what to do if your home humidity levels are too high.
How To Know Humidity Is High
Usually, you can tell from the air quality indoors when your home is too humid, but it’s always a good idea to monitor your humidity levels as well. If you don’t already have one, install a humidity detector into a central area in your home, or place multiple in more problematic areas of the house, such as the bathroom or basement. In most times of the year, the ideal humidity rating is about 30 percent to 50 percent, though this can fluctuate around summer and winter. You’ll also be able to tell humidity is too high if you notice consistent condensation on your windows or pipes.
Use a Dehumidifier
The most efficient way to bring your home’s humidity down is to invest in a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers help pull moisture out of the air and collect it in a reservoir. Portable dehumidifiers are great for all areas around your home, especially in those problem spots with higher humidity. Plus, most dehumidifier systems will give you a reading of your humidity levels and adjust appropriately. Just remember to empty the water container regularly and follow the dehumidifier’s instructions to use it effectively.
Install Air Conditioning
Another effective way to clear out some of the moisture in your home is to run air conditioning. If you don’t already have an A/C unit, it may be worthwhile to invest in one. These systems do a great job of ridding your home of wet, stagnant air. Some air conditioning units even have dehumidifiers and humidifiers built in to save you some extra steps. If air conditioning isn’t in the budget or isn’t available in your area, try circulating the air using other methods. You can use portable fans or run your kitchen and bathroom circulation systems.
Keeping track of and adjusting the humidity levels helps improve the air quality of your home. Now that you know what to do if your home humidity levels are too high, you’ll be able to adjust them and live more comfortably in your space.