Humidity is a major factor in determining the temperature of your home. In the winter, humidity levels can play a much more important role than insulation and ventilation. Understanding how humidity affects temperature is key when it comes to keeping your home comfortable in the colder months.
Effects of High Humidity
When humidity is high, it can make your home feel warmer than it is. This is because moisture in the air holds heat more effectively and so it takes longer for your body to cool down when there’s a lot of moisture in the air. High humidity levels can also cause condensation on windows, leading to mold growth over time.
Effects of Low Humidity
Low humidity levels can cause the air to dry, making it difficult for your body to regulate its temperature. This can make your home feel colder than it is and increase the risk of cold-related illnesses such as influenza. Low humidity can also cause wood furniture and floors to crack, as well as increase static electricity in the home.
How to Combat High and Low Humidity
The best way to maintain optimal humidity levels in your home is to invest in a whole-home dehumidifier or humidifier. This type of system will help balance the moisture levels throughout your entire home, allowing you to adjust the settings as needed. If you don’t want to invest in a full system, there are also portable solutions, such as room humidifiers and dehumidifiers, that can be used for smaller areas.
Best Practices for Maintaining Optimal Humidity Levels at Home
In addition to investing in a dehumidifier or humidifier, there are other ways you can keep the humidity levels in your home at an optimal level. You should try to keep the temperature in your home consistent by using an efficient HVAC system and ensuring that all of your vents are free from obstructions.
You should also seal any areas where plumbing fixtures are installed, including sinks, toilets and showers, so that excess moisture does not accumulate. Lastly, it’s important to check humidity levels regularly in each room of your house and make adjustments as needed.
If you’re concerned about the humidity levels in your home, contact Cool Zone Air Conditioning & Heating in Peoria, AZ, at (623) 253-1018. Our team of experts can help you choose the right dehumidifier or humidifier for your home and provide guidance on how to best maintain optimal humidity levels. We also provide AC repair, AC replacement and AC maintenance services.
