Tips for Managing Indoor Humidity
Managing Indoor Humidity Tips for Homeowners
Each year, Texans experience summer heat and humidity in tandem and seek comfort and relief in indoor spaces. Air conditioning was designed to address both environmental factors (heat and humidity) to make indoor spaces safe for occupants. Let’s look at the impact humidity, both high and low humidity, makes on homes.
Why is Managing Indoor Humidity Important?
Experience has shown that an ideal range for indoor humidity is between 30 and 50%. Typical Texas summertime humidity averages nearly 70% with morning moisture hovering at 90%. High indoor humidity leads to:
- A stuffy, uncomfortable feeling in the air
- Surfaces will become sticky, and the humidity can damage painted or finished surfaces.
- A water-based adhesive that holds wallpaper in place may turn loose.
- A moist surface is ideal for the growth of mold and mildew.
Low indoor humidity also leads to potential problems and as you might imagine, they are the inverse of high humidity problems.
- Indoor air will feel dry, making skin, eyes, and sinuses irritated.
- The wood in the trim and furniture will be unusually dry.
Managing the Sources of Indoor Humidity
Most indoor moisture will enter a home from the outdoor air, and we already know outdoor humidity is high. Removing moisture is essential, but even when you remove humidity from your home, air will seek equilibrium. Every time you open a door or window, moisture enters, but moisture will also find small openings and cracks to make entry.
The entry of outdoor water will increase if standing water is allowed to stand near your home. Poor drainage can lead to puddles or leaks into the basement or crawl space. Make sure that wastewater is draining properly and away from the house.
Indoor sources of water contribute to indoor humidity. Water is added to the air during showers, baths, cooking, and washing dishes or clothes. And of course, every occupant adds moisture with every breath.
Managing Indoor Humidity by Removing Indoor Moisture
- Remove sources of standing water near your home by improving drainage
- Seal leaks and caulk around windows and doors
- Use exhaust fans while showering or bathing until the steam evaporates from the mirror.
- Schedule maintenance of your air conditioner annually to ensure it removes humidity efficiently.
- Replace a failing air conditioner: the expected useful life of an air conditioner is between 15 and 20 years.
In extreme situations, you may need to use a dehumidifier and/or a humidifier, according to the season.
Have Questions about Managing Indoor Humidity?
For more information about R.M. Mullinix and Managing Indoor Humidity, schedule an appointment, or visit our AC Maintenance information page.
