Many homeowners own a dehumidifier to keep damp air from places like basements. But did you know that a certain amount of humidity is actually good for you, and beneficial for your home?
Humidity changes with the seasons, which means your approach to achieving healthy humidity levels should likely change throughout the year, too. Typically, summer air holds more moisture which results in higher humidity whereas winter air contains less water, resulting in low humidity levels.
What’s the best humidity level for your home?
Most experts agree that a range of 30-50% is ideal for indoor humidity. Humidity levels within this range will result in the greatest comfort, the highest energy-efficiency from HVAC equipment, and the healthiest indoor air quality possible within your home.
Why is humidity important?
Maintaining a healthy humidity is a tricky balance. If your humidity levels are too low (less than 30%), you could experience:
- Dry skin
- Colds and sinus infections
- Asthma
- Damage to wood in your home (hardwood floors, kitchen cabinets, etc.)
- Cracked paint and wallpaper
On the other hand, if your humidity levels are too high (over 50%), you might notice:
- Uncomfortable “stuffy” air
- Mold and bacteria growth
- Higher risk of rodent problems
- Asthma
- Rotting home materials (wood flooring, structural components)
How to maintain healthy humidity
There are a few options when it comes to controlling the humidity levels within your home.
- Portable humidifiers: If you have a small space in need of higher humidity (such as your bedroom or a small home office), a portable humidifier might be enough to maintain a healthy humidity level. Portable humidifiers are typically inexpensive and readily available. While these small appliances are effective in close range, they won’t make much of a difference if you’re trying to maintain humidity levels in your whole home.
- Whole-home humidifiers: Whole-home humidifiers are a better option for maintaining (or attaining) healthy humidity in your entire home. Whole-home humidifiers are typically installed within an existing HVAC system and work to distribute moisture to the air throughout the home. In addition to improving air quality, whole-home humidifiers also typically result in lower energy bills. Higher humidity levels in the winter months will make your home feel warmer, resulting in less need for heat.
- If you’re dealing with too much humidity, a dehumidifier is a great purchase to make. Homeowners typically place dehumidifiers in basements or other areas that are subject to moisture. Dehumidifiers work to remove moisture from the air, reducing the risk of mold and bacteria growth and/or property damage due to damp air.
Humidifier installation in Evansville, IN
Do you have questions about humidity levels in your home? If you’re unsure of how to check your home’s humidity or if you need a whole-home humidifier installed to maintain or attain healthy humidity levels, talk to the experts at Baylor Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. We can show you how a whole-home humidifier can help you stay cozy and save money this winter. To schedule an appointment, call (812) 425-8435.
