When your air is too moist or dry, it can cause serious problems for you and your home. Luckily, there is a handy little device that can help you out. Hygrometers have been telling us the humidity for centuries. Today, digital hygrometers are a useful tool that all homeowners should own. Your home’s safety is important and investing in a hygrometer can help protect it.

What Is a Hygrometer?

A hygrometer is a device used to test the humidity in a room. They range in a variety of different types and sophistication. Some hygrometers will show the percentage of moisture in the air (the relative humidity) or the actual amount of water vapor in the air (the absolute humidity). Some homemade hygrometers will simply tell you if it is damp or dry outside.

Hygrometers commonly used to forecast the weather. However, many homeowners use hygrometers to measure the humidity in their homes.

Why Do You Need One?

It is important to know your home’s humidity. Air that is too dry or moist can cause problems for both you and your home.

  • Dry Air: If your homes air is too dry, it may cause a number of health problems. Air with not enough moisture has been linked to dry or cracked skin, nosebleeds and flu like symptoms.

  • Humid Air: When your home has too much humidity in it, then it can damage your health and your home. Dangerous mold thrives in moist climates which can be very harmful to those breathing it in.

When you test your air, it should be around 35% to 55% humidity. Anything more or less is not ideal for your home.

How Do I Use It?

If it has been a while since you have used you hygrometer, you may need to test its accuracy it first. You can do this by wrapping it in a damp cloth. At this point, it should read 95% humidity. If you have a cheaper model, then this test may mess up its readings for a couple days.

Next, take the hygrometer in each room of your home. Digital hygrometers should be able to read the temperature fairly quickly.  You may have to leave analog hygrometers for a little bit to allow it to fully read the humidity. Pay extra attention to rooms that commonly have a lot of moisture, such as the basement, bathrooms and kitchen.

If you’re concerned about the humidity level in your home, then call the experts at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® of Clearwater today. The problem may be easily solved by purchasing a humidifier or dehumidifier. However, in some cases it is a much more serious problem that needs to be addressed by a professional. Contact One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® of Clearwater today and let us improve your home’s comfort!