Indoor Humidity - Moisture in the Home

Indoor Humidity - Moisture in the Home

You know when your home's air is too hot or cold. That's because you feel uncomfortable. But the amount of moisture in your home's air also has an impact on the way you feel, plus it can have a major effect on your health.

Too Much Moisture

High moisture levels can make your home feel stuffy and create a breeding ground for mold, mildew, dust mites and bacteria. Recent studies have shown that mold can cause or worsen asthma, as well as hay fever and other allergies*.

Not Enough Moisture

Dry air makes furniture shrink, warp and crack. Plus, it causes skin irritation and respiratory problems,** not to mention annoying static shocks.



Optimal Humidity Range for Ideal Comfort and Indoor Air Quality

National studies and indoor air quality experts, indicate, that, for optimal comfort and health, your home's relative humidity levels should range between 35 and 50 percent.


For optimal comfort and health, studies show that moisture levels should be in the range of 35% to 50%. You can track your home's humidity with a hygrometer, available at hardware and home improvement stores.


Other Ways to Reduce Home HumidityReducing sources of moisture can reduce your need for dehumidification.

Improving the drainage around the foundation of your home may result in decreased humidity in your basement. Some ways to improve drainage are:
Extend downspouts from your gutters away from the foundation of your home
Keep gutters and downspouts clear and open
Ensure that the soil slopes away from your foundation, to avoid pooling of water around your home.

Avoid over-watering of foundation plantings
Ensure that clothes dryers are properly vented to the outdoors. If you do not use a clothes dryer, dry your clothes outdoors as opposed to hanging them inside for drying.
Use vent fans in bathrooms and kitchens to remove humidity at the source.
Repair leaking outdoor faucets. Not only will this help reduce humidity, but it will also save you money on your water bills!
If your home uses central air conditioning, consider installing an A/C vent in the humid space in your home and take advantage of the dehumidifying capabilities of your A/C system. This will also help with air circulation, improving airflow between humid parts of your home and drier parts.