One of the best ways to get more out of your HVAC system is to reduce and control the humidity in your home air. Excess moisture in the air can affect how comfortable we feel. It can also increase the amount of mold and mildew in our homes. These humidity management tips will help you stay on top of excess moisture.

Humidity is one of the most trying elements when living in South Florida. Reducing the amount of moisture in the air can decrease the load on our heat and AC systems, saving us money and reducing our utility bills.

What is the Optimal Humidity Levels

While experts have weighed in from all industries, the optimal levels of humidity in your home depend on your preferences to a large degree.

Extremely low humidity can result in itchy skin, while excess humidity can exacerbate asthma. Overall, however, experts say between 30 and 50 percent is optimal. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers recommends levels between 45 and 65 percent.

Humidity levels over 60 percent can be truly problematic, both for comfort and the integrity of your home’s fixtures and finishes. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends levels between 30 and 60 percent to control the growth of mold.

We recommend using a hygrometer to measure the humidity in your home. With a solid reading, you’ll better understand where you need to manage humidity in your home. You’ll also better know if the steps you’ve taken are effective.

Top Tips to Manage Humidity

The following humidity management tips will keep you more comfortable year-round.

  1. Repair any leaks in plumbing under sinks and behind appliances.

  2. Maintain heating and cooling throughout all rooms in your home and allow for adequate airflow through the house.

  3. Utilize exhaust fans in baths, kitchens, and utility rooms to remove moisture to the outdoors.

  4. Use your air conditioner or heating system to remove excess moisture from the air.

  5. Seal dirt floors in crawlspaces to prevent moisture from infiltrating from the ground.

  6. Weather-proofing your windows with caulk can prevent outdoor moisture from infiltrating.

  7. Reduce showering times or take cooler showers.

  8. Wash laundry on the cold-water cycle.

  9. Use a dehumidifier. You can also have a whole-house dehumidifier installed.

  10. Choose dishes that don’t require boiling water.

  11. Ensure rainwater is channeled away from your home by keeping gutters cleared out and downspouts extended further into the lawn.

Long-Term Relief

Controlling the temperature and humidity in our homes is quality of life topic here in South Florida. High humidity makes us feeler hotter in the summer and more chilled during winter cold snaps.

Excess humidity causes mold and mildew in our homes. Mold feeds on organic matter and can destroy woodwork, drywall, and even cause structural damage.

Make an appointment with One Hour Air in Stuart today for an estimate on a whole-house dehumidifier. Keep humidity at bay year-round, without resorting to cold showers and cold sandwiches.