insights

If you notice cracked paint, musty odour, or frequently having coughing and sneezing, it could be due to high humidity levels in your home. High humidity can make you feel flushed, sweaty, and allergic. In addition, it can also lead to mold formation in closed spaces like the basement. In this article, we share what the optimum humidity level is, and ways to reduce it in your home for a healthy and comfortable living space.

What is humidity?

Humidity is a measure of the amount of water vapour in the air. Relative humidity measures the amount of water vapour in the air in relation to the maximum amount of water vapour. Relative humidity levels are typically high in summers and low during winters.

According to health Canada, for summer, the optimum indoor humidity level is below 50% and in winter, it is between 30%-35%.

Here are 5 ways to reduce high humidity in your home:

Seal cracks and leaks

If there are cracks and leaks in your home, then this can increase moisture content in the air, and can increase humidity levels. Make sure your home is well-insulated and there are no cracks or leaks to prevent high moisture levels, and to maintain optimum humidity levels inside. You can check for drafts in windows, doors, external walls, and even attics to ensure the house is properly insulated. Moisture-proofing leak prone areas like sinks, tubs, and water pipes can also help control humidity levels.

Vacuuming carpets and rugs

If you have carpets and rugs in your home, then it is important that you vacuum them regularly to prevent dust and dirt. The fabric of carpets and rugs easily retain moisture and can trap dirt and germs in them reducing indoor air quality. To prevent humidity you can use rugs or carpets that have plastic linings to create barriers from floors and reduce humidity levels.

Keep the plants out

If you are a nature lover and have many plants indoors, this can increase the humidity, as water from soil travels to the leaves where it gets evaporated through a process called evapotranspiration. This increases moisture content while indoors, whereas if you keep plants outside, the water gets evaporated faster due to the open air circulation.

Using exhaust fans and air-conditioners

Air-conditioners are a great way to reduce humidity levels in your home as they blow cold air and help in air-circulation. In addition, certain regular practices such as turning on your exhaust fan while cooking or showering can reduce moisture content and thereby maintain optimum humidity levels in your home.

Using de-humidifier

Using a dehumidifier is an effective way to maintain humidity levels in your home as they remove excess moisture from the air. In addition, they are also great for improving indoor air quality as they minimize dust, germs, and allergens from your home, thus making it a healthier space for you and your family.

Taunton Trades – an HVAC specialist in Whitby and serving GTA and Durham, carries a wide range of products to help better control humidity levels in your home with top of the line products. Contact us today at 905-493-4227 or email to mail@tauntontrades.com.