The sweltering heat of the summer season can be enough to put a damper on any planned outdoor activities. That muggy feeling you experience is a result of an increase in humidity. When this happens, you feel warmer than the actual temperature indicated. Once the relative humidity (RH) level in your home starts to creep up, it will affect not only the property itself but your home’s comfort levels and your family’s health.
Jon Wayne Company, a leading HVAC installation contractor in the local area, shares the many effects of high indoor humidity, along with the ways you can keep high indoor humidity levels at bay.
Mold Growth
Apart from that “sticky” feeling, too much humidity inside your home can cause mold and bacteria to spread and multiply, decreasing the quality of your indoor air. Areas likely to feel damp, such as the attic, crawl space, or basement, can cause of a myriad of problems with your home’s furnishings and even result in structural damage.
Health Problems
Any local HVAC company is well aware of what can result from the spread of mold and other contaminants inside the home as a result of high indoor humidity levels. A relative humidity level above 60% is high enough for bacteria and viruses to thrive, which can aggravate asthma symptoms, allergies and other respiratory problems.
Other Effects of Humidity
In addition to mold growth and the accompanying illnesses, high levels of humidity indoors can also affect one’s quality of sleep. Ornamental plants can wilt and may begin to emit a distinct smell, while paint and wallpaper can show signs of peeling. Windows and doors tend to stick as well.
Ways to Combat the Effects of Humidity
Fortunately, there are ways to manage the humidity inside your home. Experts say that the ideal RH level is between 30% and 50%, especially during the summer months. To achieve this, start by opening your windows for a little while every day to ensure the intake of fresh air and the exhaust of stale air. You should also weatherstrip the windows and doors to prevent outdoor heat from entering your home.
As far as your home’s HVAC system is concerned, it’s important to regularly clean or replace the filters of your AC unit and furnace. You may also want to invest in a dehumidifier to eliminate excess moisture from the indoor air. Keeping your HVAC systems well-maintained will help them perform more efficiently.
Jon Wayne Company has been providing quality, reliable heating and air conditioning services for local customers for years. We specialize in all phases of residential HVAC work, including design, installation, maintenance, warranties and repairs. Call us at (903) 807-0307 if you need emergency service. You may also fill out our contact form to request a free no-obligation quote. We serve residents of Mt. Vernon, TX.
