For many Boston residents, their home is their safe place, a spot to relax and unwind after a long day. But did you know that the quality of the air you breathe indoors can significantly impact your health and comfort? One often overlooked factor in indoor air quality is humidity. Below, the expert heating and cooling technicians at Unique Indoor Comfort share how too much or too little humidity in the house can impact your family.
What Is Humidity?
Humidity refers to the amount of water vapor present in the air. It’s typically measured as a percentage of relative humidity (RH), which indicates how much moisture the air can hold at a given temperature. The ideal indoor humidity level is generally between 30% and 50%.
Why Balanced Humidity Levels Matter
Both high and low humidity levels can create problems in your home.
- Effects of High Humidity: High humidity levels (above 50%) can lead to:
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- Increased growth of mold and mildew: Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments. If you notice musty odors or visible mold growth in your home, it could be a sign of high humidity.
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- Respiratory problems: High humidity can exacerbate allergies and asthma symptoms, making it difficult to breathe.
- Dust mite problems: Dust mites thrive in humid environments and can trigger allergies and asthma.
- Effects of Low Humidity: Low humidity levels (below 30% RH) can lead to:
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- Dry skin and itchy eyes: Dry air can irritate your skin and eyes, especially during winter.
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- Respiratory problems: Dry air can irritate your sinuses and airways, making you more susceptible to colds and respiratory infections.
- Damage to your home: Dry air can cause wood to crack and warp.
Maintaining Balanced Humidity Levels
You can monitor your home’s humidity levels with a hygrometer, a small device that measures the moisture content in the air. Here are some tips for maintaining balanced humidity levels in your home:
During the Summer
If you live in a humid climate, you may need to use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air. Dehumidifiers are especially helpful in basements and crawl spaces, which are prone to moisture problems.
During the Winter
If you live in a dry climate, you may need a humidifier to add moisture to the air. Humidifiers can help improve your respiratory health, alleviate dry skin, and protect your furniture.
Improve Indoor Air Quality
In addition to using a dehumidifier or humidifier, there are other things you can do to improve indoor air quality, such as:
- Change your air filters regularly: Dirty air filters can trap allergens and pollutants, making it harder to breathe.
- Increase ventilation: Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate throughout your home.
- Address moisture problems: Fix leaky pipes and faucets to prevent mold growth.
- Air duct cleaning: Regular cleaning can remove dust, allergens, and other contaminants from your HVAC system.
Unique Indoor Comfort Can Help
If you’re concerned about the humidity levels in your home, Unique Indoor Comfort can help. Our experienced heating and cooling technicians can assess your home’s comfort needs and recommend the best solutions for maintaining balanced humidity levels. We offer various options to meet your needs. Contact Unique Indoor Comfort in Boston today at (978) 806-2287 to request a quote.