What is the Optimal Humidity Level at Home?
From dry skin and staticky hair to clammy skin and window condensation, it's easy to tell when the humidity levels in your home are off. The ideal indoor humidity is between 40 percent and 60 percent, but it can be surprisingly hard to maintain this level without intervention. Climate and the time of year all impact the moisture in the air, as do daily activities such as cooking and bathing. Read more to find out why the humidity level is key and how you can optimize it for a more comfortable and healthier home.
Absolute Humidity Vs. Relative Humidity
Absolute humidity measures the amount of moisture in the air and is the basic reading of humidity. It is expressed in grams. Relative humidity is the amount of water in the air relative to the temperature and is expressed as a percentage. The terms absolute humidity and relative humidity are not interchangeable. Relative humidity is how we experience temperature — how it feels to us — and has the most impact on indoor air quality.
Why Is the Proper Humidity Level Important?
If the humidity is too high, you feel sticky and uncomfortable, but if it's too low you can experience itchy skin and sinus issues. The proper humidity level not only makes your home more comfortable, but also creates a healthier environment.
It's All About Balance
Maintaining the relative humidity in the 40-50% range encourages healthy air quality. A DRI Steem humidifier is a powerful tool for air that helps to prevent health issues, such as asthma or bronchitis, that can be aggravated by air that is too dry. And if your air is too humid, are dehumidifiers worth it? Yes! Too much moisture in the air can lead to condensation on windows and toilet tanks, as well as musty odors. A damp house is a breeding ground for mold, bacteria, viruses and dust mites, and an EBAC dehumidifier can help regulate the air to avoid them.
Top 4 Reasons to Invest in a Humidifier or Dehumidifier
The property humidity levels have benefits for every aspect of the home:
- 1. Comfort - Itchy dry skin, clammy skin and shocks from static electricity are reduced with the proper humidity levels. A comfortable level of humidity also improves sleep.
- 2. Health & Safety - High humidity can be dangerous when combined with extreme temperatures because this combination disrupts the body's ability to cool itself. Maintaining a healthy humidity range also reduces mold growth, pollutants and allergens in the home. When the mucus membranes and the respiratory tract are moist, your body can fight off viruses more effectively, and it can decrease sinus issues and sore throats.
- 3. Home - Wallpaper can peel or warp and wood can crack when humidity is 5% or less. Excessive humidity can cause hidden mold and rot. Unregulated humidity can also negatively affect musical instruments.
- 4. Savings - When it's cold outside, you can reduce your heating bill by increasing the humidity in the home. The moisture in the air makes lower temperatures feel warmer.
Are Dehumidifiers Worth It?
High humidity can be a sticky situation. An EBAC dehumidifier helps keep your home's humidity in the ideal range. We carry both portable units and dehumidifiers that are permanently installed as part of your home's HVAC system to address any size problem. A high-efficiency and quiet EBAC dehumidifier enhances your home's air quality and is a great value.
Optimize The Humidity in Your Home with HVAC Brain
Improving your home's relative humidity does more than make you comfortable. It creates a healthier abode. A DRI Steem humidifier or Nortec humidifier pairs well with an EBAC dehumidifier, working together to create the perfect home or office environment. Find your ideal machines at HVAC Brain today.
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