Top Tips To Control the Humidity in Your Home

The humidity levels in your home refer to how much water vapor is in the air.

When humidity is high, it means that there’s a lot of water vapor in the atmosphere. Hence, the air inside your home may feel wet. In contrast, low humidity creates air that is dry and has minimal moisture.

Too much or too little humidity is uncomfortable, especially inside a home. Excess humidity can lead to a musty smell in your home and mold growth. Additionally, the two extremes can cause health issues. If the humidity is too high, you may feel lethargic and your body can overheat and become dehydrated. On the other hand, dry air due to low humidity can irritate your throat and mucous membranes. It can also make your eyes dry and red, producing an unpleasant burning sensation.

Having the right humidity levels is thus imperative. They not only promote comfort but they also prevent health issues from occurring. Fortunately, there are ways to control the humidity in your home. As HVAC service specialists, C&G Heating & Air Conditioning receives a lot of inquiries about achieving the right balance of humidity from homeowners.

Here are the steps we usually recommend:

1. Monitor and Measure Humidity Levels

The first step to control the humidity in your home is to know what the current moisture levels are. To do this, you’ll need a reliable hygrometer, a device with a clock-like dial that tells you how much moisture is in the air. 

The ideal humidity for indoor spaces is between 40% and 50%. If the moisture inside your home exceeds 50% or falls below 40%, you need to take action.

2. Ventilate Your Home

Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining healthy humidity levels. Ensure that your kitchen and bathroom are equipped with exhaust fans that can effectively carry the air outside. Use these fans during and after activities that generate moisture, such as cooking, showering, or doing laundry. Additionally, open windows when the weather permits to allow fresh air to circulate inside.

3. Fix Leaks and Check Your Insulation

Water leaks can contribute to excess humidity in your home. Regularly check for any leaks in pipes, faucets, or appliances, and fix them promptly. The proper insulation of your home's walls, windows, and doors also helps prevent moisture from seeping indoors, keeping humidity levels under control. Signs of poor or faulty insulation are drafts in your home, mold growing in your insulating material, and insulating material with gaps in between. 

4. Use Dehumidifiers

If your hygrometer reveals that your humidity levels are too high, you may want to get a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers are devices that can reduce the excessive moisture in your home. They extract water vapor from the air, helping maintain optimal humidity levels. 

Place them in areas prone to high humidity, such as basements, laundry rooms, or bathrooms. C & G Heating & Air Conditioning can help you find the right dehumidifier for your needs.

5. Use Air Conditioning and Heating Systems

Modern HVAC systems can help control the humidity in your home. When the temperature rises, the atmosphere can hold more water molecules and humidity decreases. In contrast, humidity increases when temperatures drop.

So, ensure that your air conditioning unit is properly maintained and has clean filters. During the colder months, you can use a humidifier to add moisture to the dry air produced by your heating system.



6. Consider Natural Remedies

Certain natural remedies can help regulate humidity levels in your home. Houseplants, such as Boston ferns and peace lilies, act as natural humidifiers. Additionally, placing bowls of water near heat sources, like radiators, can increase humidity as the water evaporates. However, it's important to monitor your humidity levels closely to avoid excessive moisture.

Control the Humidity In Your Home With C&G Heating & Air Conditioning

Maintaining optimal humidity levels in your home is essential for creating a comfortable and healthy living space. By following these top tips to control your indoor humidity levels, you can achieve a balanced indoor environment and prevent issues associated with excessive or low humidity. 

For professional assistance with your heating, air conditioning, and humidity control needs in Columbus, Georgia, reach out to C&G Heating & Air Conditioning. Our experienced team provides a wide array of HVAC services, including HVAC replacement and HVAC repair.

Call C&G Heating & Air Conditioning today at (334) 614-3398 or (706) 538-4813. We can help you make sure that your home’s temperature is comfortable throughout the year.