Usually, we key in on temperatures as it relates to home comfort, but the humidity levels in your home play a bigger role than you think. Usually when we hear the word humidity, we narrow in on the weather outside. But, it is encouraged to make sure your house maintains a humidity level between 30 and 50 percent. What exactly does that mean? The air in your house is holding between 30 to 50 percent of the maximum amount of moisture it can hold.
What happens when you have too much or too little humidity?
Too Much Humidity
If you haven’t been in the situation, chances are you have at least heard about the effect humidity can have on how hot it feels outside. An 80-degree day in one region might feel cooler than an 80-degree day in place with heightened humidity. The same thing can happen in your home. If there is too much humidity, it more challenging for your body to monitor internal temperatures.
Dehumidified air feels cooler, so you might have the ability to set your thermostat at a higher temp and still feel comfortable, which could provide you with energy savings.
Too Little Humidity
While drier air might feel good outdoors, too little humidity also has negative implications inside the home. Dry air can trigger your skin to feel cold and itchy and develop sore throats and chapped lips. The amount of static electricity is enhanced, so you’ll find yourself getting hit with little shocks every time you touch a doorknob.
Lack of moisture takes a toll on the wood throughout your home, creating cracking and shrinking in your furniture, trim and even floors. The dry air also affects your body’s mucous membranes, heightening your risk of developing a cold or breathing challenges.
What can you do?
However, there are steps to help you assess and adjust humidity levels in the home. A smart thermostat can help you gauge the air in your home to understand humidity levels. And if you are having difficulties getting in the 30 to 50 percent range for humidity, there are humidifiers and dehumidifiers that can provide additional support.
If you experience any of the warning signs mentioned above, or if you want a professional to come out and check out your home’s humidity levels, Lycoming Heating Company can help. You can book an appointment by reaching us at 570-326-4450. Our experts will review your challenges and help you determine next steps for attaining the best humidity level for your home comfort.