The Ideal Indoor Humidity Level for Your Home—and How to Get It

When you think of home comfort, your furnace and air conditioner are the first systems that come to mind. But your home’s humidity level also factors into how efficiently these two systems work. If your levels fall outside of the ideal indoor humidity range of 30-50 percent, you’ll feel uncomfortable. Below, the RJ Heating and Air Conditioning professionals explain why home humidity is so important and how you can perfect yours. Call us with questions at 414-463-1140.

Why Indoor Humidity Levels Matter

Home moisture levels can be tricky. Here are some of the problems you may experience if yours is off balance.

Excess Humidity

Increased humidity is typical during the summer months when there is more moisture in the air. If your home is too humid, you’ll experience a heaviness in the air, a muggy feeling, and general discomfort. It will also feel warmer than it really is. In cases of extreme humidity (above 60 percent), there can be other dangers including increased allergy symptoms, mold growth, and warped wood, furniture, and electronics.

Not Enough Humidity

On the other side, you’ll notice lower home humidity levels during the winter months, when the air is drier. When moisture is too low, you’ll experience an increase in static electricity and dry skin. It may seem cooler in your home than what it reads on your thermostat. You also might experience sore throats or other respiratory issues caused by dry air. And in cases when humidity levels fall too low (below 30 percent), other problems can occur, including itchy eyes and irritation, furniture and wall shrinkage, and easier spread of illness.

How to Get the Ideal Indoor Humidity Level

The absolute best way to ensure ideal indoor humidity levels is by installing a whole-home humidifier and/or a dehumidifier. These systems work together with your air conditioner and furnace to help you maintain maximum home comfort. By increasing your comfort without the need to rely on your thermostat, you’ll also save money on your energy bills.

In addition to humidifier and dehumidifier installation, you can do other things to control humidity levels. For example, make sure there are no water or window leaks in your home. Increase ventilation by running fans more often. Take shorter and colder showers to reduce excess condensation and mold growth.

Maintain Proper Humidity Levels With RJ Heating

Whatever your humidity or home comfort concerns are, RJ Heating has the right solutions to help you balance everything out. We’ll come out to your house, assess areas of concern, and recommend the next steps. Contact our Carrier® experts today with questions at 414-463-1140 or schedule an appointment online.