The Effects Humidity Can Have in the Home and How to Better Control It
Humidity is simply a measurement of the level of water vapor in the air. While this concept is easy to grasp, it can have far-reaching implications for health and comfort. If humidity in the home is too high or low, it can create many issues for residents and the household. Here are some of the effects of too little or too much humidity at home and how homeowners can take action to control the humidity in their homes by installing humidifiers and dehumidifiers.
Why Does the Indoor Humidity Level Matter?
Humidity plays a crucial role in determining the comfort and healthiness of indoor environments. Too much humidity can create a breeding ground for mold, dust mites, and other allergens, contributing to poor indoor air quality and potential health issues such as allergies or respiratory problems. Additionally, too much humidity, common in summer, makes the air feel stuffy and can cause overheating in the body, as excessive moisture prevents sweat from evaporating and cooling the skin efficiently.
On the other hand, too little humidity can cause respiratory tract irritation, discomfort, and increased vulnerability to infection. Maintaining an optimal humidity level is, therefore, key to ensuring a comfortable living environment and improving the health of inhabitants. Too little humidity, often experienced during winter months, can also cause discomfort, such as irritated eyes, dry skin, and static electricity.
How Humidifiers Can Help
Homeowners might recognize the need for a humidifier during the colder months when indoor air tends to become dry, leading to discomforts from too little humidity, such as dry skin, eye irritation, increased susceptibility to colds, static electricity, and damage to wooden furniture and floors through shrinkage and cracking.
Installing a humidifier can significantly mitigate these issues by maintaining optimal indoor humidity levels, around 30-50%. This not only ensures a more comfortable living environment but also helps preserve the health of its inhabitants. A humidifier installation can also help lower heating bills, as moist air feels warmer than dry air, allowing homeowners to adjust the thermostat and save on heating costs.
How Dehumidifiers Can Help
Homeowners can also recognize the need for a dehumidifier installation through signs within their living environments, such as musty odors, visible mold on walls or ceilings, increased allergies or respiratory issues, and excessive moisture and condensation on windows.
A dehumidifier can significantly reduce these issues by removing excess moisture from the air, thus creating a healthier living space. The benefits of installing a dehumidifier extend beyond improving air quality and people's health in the home. They also protect the home and its belongings from damp-related damage, reduce the likelihood of mold growth, and create a more comfortable living environment by maintaining optimal humidity levels. It can also help save on energy bills, as they can help air conditioners work more efficiently.
About Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air
Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air has been serving St. George, UT, and the surrounding areas for over 20 years. They provide same-day service, 24/7 live answers, and financing options. Call them today for humidifier installation and repair services in St. George, UT.
