High humidity levels make you feel clammy and uncomfortable. When high levels of moisture are in your air, you may notice a musty odor, mildew, mold growth in your home, and even things like peeling paint or wallpaper. If the moisture in your house is a problem, take steps to lower indoor humidity this summer.
Understand Why to Lower Indoor Humidity
Humidity refers to how much moisture is in the air. High humidity levels outdoors can also affect your indoor environment. Moisture is also generated from internal sources like bathing, cleaning, and cooking. With this in mind, here are strategies to lower indoor humidity and increase the comfort of your home.
Control the Climate to Lower Humidity
The amount of moisture in the air is affected by the temperature in your home. Warm air holds more moisture, so using your HVAC system regularly and setting the thermostat at a reasonable temperature will help maintain a comfortable indoor environment. Because the HVAC equipment controls both humidity and temperature, run your HVAC system even on mild days.
Close the Windows
On nice days, people are often inclined to open their windows and let fresh air inside. Keep in mind that the humidity level may be higher outdoors than in your home. Letting outside air indoors can increase the moisture in your home. Instead of opening your windows, enjoy relaxing on your deck or patio to enjoy the weather outdoors.
Turn the Fans On
Ventilation fans are usually installed in bathrooms, the laundry room, and the kitchen. Unlike overhead fans that simply circulate air, ventilation fans extract air from the room and vent it outside. These fans are located in rooms that can generate high humidity.
The most convenient way to reduce humidity is to simply turn the fans on when showering, cooking, or doing laundry. If you are not in the habit of using these features, begin taking advantage of your ventilation fans to help reduce moisture in the air.
Use a Dehumidifier to Lower Indoor Humidity
If your home continues to have high humidity levels after taking these steps, invest in a dehumidifier. Purchase a dehumidifier for the size of the space that needs to be treated. You can also tackle humidity in your home by investing in a larger, whole-house dehumidification system. Some systems sense when the humidity has reached a certain level and will turn on automatically.
Humidity in your home is a concern that requires attention. Because moisture in the air comes from internal and external sources, you may need to use multiple strategies to lower indoor humidity in your home.
Cabal Inspection Services offers home inspections in Dade, Broward, and Monroe counties in Southeast Florida. Contact us to request an appointment.