Humidity is the amount of water vapor in the atmosphere or in a gas. So is too much humidity bad? The short answer to this question is yes. It’s important to be aware of the recommended humidity levels and signs that moisture is too high. Here are some of the damaging things humidity can do to a home and your health – and what to look for in an overly humid home.
What Happens if My House is Too Humid?
Having too high of humidity can cause damage to your home. Moisture can cause stains on walls and ceilings, lead to mold in your bathroom or laundry room, cause condensation and leave an odor in your home. High levels of humidity can also lead to structural damage over time. When humidity levels are high, dust mites can occur. In the south, it’s typical to see bug infestations when there is a high humidity level.
When the humidity level is higher, that typically means that the rooms are warm. This causes the body to have a tougher time cooling itself down, which can lead to overheating and, in some instances, a stroke.
People with asthma are told to be overly cautious in areas that have high humidity, as well as people who suffer from allergic reactions due to dust. Being in an overly humid home can lead to respiratory illnesses.
The Ideal Humidity
The recommended level of humidity in a home is around 40-50%, with it being lower than 40% during the winter. It’s smart to get a hygrometer to measure the humidity level. Some smart thermostats will also help measure this.
If your house is too humid, there are some steps you can take to help the humidity levels. You can:
- Install a dehumidifier into your HVAC system
- Vent areas that create moisture, like a shower or laundry room
- Install a fresh air intake duct
- Make sure your air conditioner is sized correctly
- Reduce the number of plants in your home as they can lead to humidity
For all your heating and cooling needs, give your friends at Champion AC & Plumbing a call.
