Humidity, Humidifier, and Dehumidifier Basics to Know
Humidity might seem like just another weather metric, but its impact on a home can be far more significant than people might realize. Whether too high or too low, improper humidity levels can silently wreak havoc on the living space, affecting everything from the home to a family's health and comfort.
The effects of uncontrolled humidity can lead to costly repairs and potential health issues. So, understanding and managing humidity levels in the home isn't just about comfort. It's also about ensuring a healthy living environment for loved ones. This post will discuss why humidity matters and how humidifier and dehumidifier installation can help maintain the perfect balance in a home.
Why Does Humidity Matter?
Humidity plays a crucial role in comfort and health. When indoor humidity rises above 60%, the excess moisture creates an ideal environment for mold growth, dust mites, and other allergens to thrive. High humidity can also cause wood to swell, leading to stuck doors, warped flooring, and damaged furniture. Additionally, excessive moisture in the air can peel wallpaper, create water stains on walls and ceilings, and contribute to musty odors throughout a home.
Conversely, when humidity levels drop below 30%, the lack of moisture can cause equally problematic issues. Low humidity leads to static electricity, cracked wood furniture, and gaps in hardwood flooring. More importantly, it can affect health by drying out skin, irritating the respiratory system, and making people more susceptible to colds and viruses, as many airborne pathogens survive longer in dry conditions. The ideal indoor humidity level typically falls between 30-50%, providing the perfect balance for home preservation and optimal indoor air quality.
Humidifier Installation
During the winter months or in naturally arid climates, low humidity levels can cause discomfort and problems in a home. Common signs that indicate households may need a humidifier installation include static electricity, cracking wooden furniture or floors, frequent respiratory issues, dry skin, and persistent coughing. If people notice your indoor plants struggling or wake up with a dry throat and nose, these are also telling indicators that the home's air moisture levels are too low. The ideal indoor humidity level should be between 30-50%, and people can also measure this using a hygrometer.
Installing a humidifier offers numerous benefits for the home and residents’ health. Properly humidified air can help preserve wood furnishings, prevent wall paint from cracking, and reduce static electricity that can damage electronic devices. From a health perspective, maintaining optimal humidity levels can alleviate respiratory symptoms, reduce the spread of airborne viruses, improve sleep quality, and prevent dry skin and chapped lips. Humidifiers also help lower heating costs, as moisturized air feels warmer, allowing homeowners to set their thermostats slightly lower while maintaining comfort.
Dehumidifier Installation
Several telltale signs indicate when a home requires a dehumidifier. If people notice condensation on windows, water stains on walls or ceilings, or a musty odor throughout the home, these are clear indicators of excess humidity. Other signs include mold spots in corners or bathrooms, warped wooden furniture, and peeling wallpaper. Additionally, if family members experience increased allergies or respiratory issues, or if the indoor air feels consistently sticky and uncomfortable, the home's humidity levels could be too high.
Installing a dehumidifier offers numerous benefits that extend beyond comfort. First and foremost, it helps maintain optimal indoor humidity levels (between 30-50%), which prevents mold growth and protects the home. A dehumidifier can also significantly reduce dust mite populations, as these allergens thrive in humid environments, leading to improved indoor air quality and better respiratory health for occupants. Furthermore, by removing excess moisture from the air, dehumidifiers help protect valuable belongings from damage, prevent wood rot, and they can lower energy costs as drier air feels cooler.
About Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air
Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air has over 20 years of experience serving St. George and the surrounding areas. They offer upfront and honest pricing and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them for dehumidifier and humidifier installation services in St. George, UT.
