When people discuss controlling the temperature within their homes, they typically mention thermostats first. What a lot of homeowners don’t realize is that the level of humidity really affects how comfortable it is and how well the HVAC works.
Optimal Humidity Levels for Different Seasons
For the best health and comfort, experts suggest keeping the relative humidity between 30% and 50%. To avoid problems like dry skin and static electricity in the winter, when outside air tends to be drier, homeowners should try to stay around the lower end of this range. While increased humidity is more bearable in the summer, it is essential to maintain levels below 50% to prevent mold growth and discomfort.
How to Measure the Humidity in Your Home
Using a hygrometer, a dedicated device for measuring relative humidity, simplifies the process of measuring indoor humidity. Hygrometers are now standard on many newer thermostats, allowing users to get both temperature and humidity measurements in real time. Consider placing portable hygrometers in various rooms of the house to detect differences for a more thorough evaluation. Maintaining good humidity levels requires frequent monitoring and adjustments to your HVAC system or humidity control devices.
How High Humidity Affects Indoor Comfort
When there is a lot of humidity in the air, sweat doesn’t evaporate as quickly, so people think it’s hotter inside than it actually is. Stickiness, profuse perspiration and other unpleasant symptoms are common results, all of which can lead to turning up the air conditioner in an attempt to reduce the discomfort. High indoor humidity also promotes the growth of allergenic and respiratory-inconvenient dust mites, mold and mildew. Over time, structural damage and material degradation can result from these elements as well as from condensation on windows and other surfaces.
How Low Humidity Affects Indoor Comfort
Dry indoor air has the potential to aggravate skin conditions, dry out lips and heighten static electricity. During the winter months, low humidity can make the air feel colder than it actually is, which leads to a lot of people turning up the heat too much. Low humidity also has the potential to aggravate respiratory issues, such as allergies and asthma, and can lead to an increased risk of nosebleeds and sinus issues. Furthermore, low humidity can lead to cracked or warped wood flooring and furniture.
Impact of High Humidity on HVAC Systems
Air conditioners have to work harder to cool a room when the air has a lot of moisture in it because they have to do double duty—remove the excess humidity and lower the temperature. Having to exert more effort means more potential for increased energy consumption and system wear and tear. More than that, HVAC components can become breeding grounds for mold and bacteria when exposed to too much moisture, which can eventually lower air quality and efficiency.
Impact of Low Humidity on HVAC Systems
Although high humidity is more detrimental to HVAC system performance, low humidity can still have an effect on comfort and efficiency. This is because traditional air conditioners may have to operate for longer during periods of low humidity to reach the required comfort level. And because low humidity during heating seasons can make the air feel colder, you might find yourself raising the thermostat more than necessary to compensate. This can increase wear and tear on the HVAC system as well as energy use, resulting in higher HVAC-related costs.
The Role of Humidifiers in HVAC Performance
Air humidifiers have many benefits, including making people feel more at ease, decreasing the amount of static electricity and protecting wood furniture and floors from harm. Integrating a whole-house humidifier with an HVAC system allows for uniform humidity control throughout the home. Also, with the right humidification, you won’t feel as cold, which means you can turn down the thermostat and save money on energy costs.
Dehumidifiers: A Solution for Excess Moisture
Dehumidifiers improve air quality by lowering humidity levels, which in turn reduces musty odors and helps stop mold from growing. They can reduce the strain on air conditioning systems, which may lead to better energy efficiency and longer system life. Incorporating a whole-house dehumidifier into an HVAC system can offer superior moisture control and comfort for households that deal with ongoing humidity problems.
Signs of Improper Humidity Levels in Your Home
Feeling clammy, seeing mold growth, noticing musty scents or condensation on windows are all signs of high humidity. Static electricity, dry skin, itchy skin, cracked wood furniture and worsening cold or respiratory symptoms are all symptoms of low humidity. You can proactively alter your HVAC system or apply additional humidity control measures as needed by paying attention to these signs and routinely monitoring humidity levels.
If you need help monitoring and managing the humidity in your home, call Northwest HVAC Heating & Cooling. We also help homeowners in Vancouver, WA, with HVAC installations, indoor air quality solutions, ductless heat pumps, heat pump repairs, air purifiers, and more. Call us now to schedule indoor humidity services for your home.
