Try as you might, there are certain things you can’t change, like outdoor weather conditions. The best you can do is try to stay cool in the shade on a hot summer day or bundle up when the temps dip in the winter. However, you do have the power to manage the indoor comfort inside your home – specifically the humidity level.

Maintaining the right indoor moisture not only enhances your comfort and well-being but also helps protect your home and belongings from potential damage. Read on as we explain why maintaining the right level of humidity is important.

Why It Matters

Managing your home’s humidity is essential for your comfort, health, and the longevity of your home’s structure. It refers to the amount of moisture in the air, and it plays a significant role in regulating how we feel indoors. If the moisture level is too high or too low, it can lead to a range of issues from health concerns to damage to your home and belongings.

Ideal Humidity

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the ideal indoor level is typically between 30% and 50% for optimal living conditions. Some studies even suggest that for better sleep quality, the ideal relative humidity might be slightly higher, ranging from 40% to 60%. However, personal comfort, health, and the season should guide you.

Negative Effects of Low Humidity

When the humidity level in your home drops below the optimal range (under 30%), it can lead to several discomforts and health issues, including:

• Low humidity causes the air to pull moisture from your skin and respiratory system, leading to dryness, itching, and irritation.
• Dry air can exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma or allergies. It can dry out the nasal passages and throat, making it more difficult to breathe and potentially causing or worsening sinus congestion.
• A sudden shock from static electricity can be more common when humidity is too low. It’s not just uncomfortable – this static can damage electronic devices, such as computers, televisions, and phones, by creating a small but potentially dangerous electrical surge.
• Low humidity can also cause damage to wooden furniture, flooring, and musical instruments. Wood is sensitive to changes in moisture and can shrink, crack, or warp.

The Negative Effects of High Humidity

On the other hand, humidity levels that are too high (above 60%) also pose significant problems in your home. These include:

• Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments and can cause significant damage to your walls, floors, and ceilings. What’s more, it can cause respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems.
• High levels of moisture in the air can aggravate allergy and asthma symptoms, as it provides a favorable environment for dust mites and mold spores to thrive.
• High humidity makes the air feel warmer, which can cause discomfort and make it difficult to sleep.
• Excess moisture in the air can seep into walls, ceilings, and insulation, leading to structural damage over time.

How to Maintain the Ideal Humidity Level

A whole-house humidity control system expertly installed by C&D Cooling & Heating can help you maintain a comfortable and healthy indoor environment. Add moisture to the air in dry conditions and reduce excess moisture when levels are too high. To learn more or schedule a free in-home comfort analysis, contact us today.