The Importance of Air Quality in Your Home
How Humidity Plays a Role in Indoor Air Quality
When the words “poor indoor air quality” come to mind, most people think of the main culprits as being indoor allergens, worn-out air filters, and inadequate air flow. However, many people do not know that humidity levels can also have an effect on the structural integrity of your home and the well-being of its occupants. Humidity may be nothing more than water vapor in the air, but if you have too little or too much, it can result in problems down the line. If you want to learn more about how humidity levels can affect your indoor air quality (IAQ) and how to improve it— read on.
Effects of Low Humidity
The ideal range for humidity in your home is between 40% and 60%. Humidity levels below 40% are considered low. A home with persistent low humidity levels can suffer from issues such as peeling wallpaper, cracked walls, warped floorboards, and shrinking wood. Low humidity can also affect you and your family’s health, causing problems such as dry skin, cracked lips, dry eyes, and sore or itchy throats.
Effects of High Humidity
High humidity in your home can also take a toll on your indoor air quality and is just as harmful as low humidity. If you have humidity levels above 60%, you are dealing with high humidity. A home with high humidity levels may suffer from mold growth, insect infestation, damaged furniture, and cracked walls.
Living in a home with excess humidity can result in health problems such as respiratory illness, eye irritation, allergies, skin rashes, and throat irritation.
How to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air quality is as important as the functionality of your HVAC systems. If your indoor air quality suffers, you suffer as well. If you think that your home’s humidity levels are contributing to poor indoor air quality, contact a HVAC professional so they can assist you in taking the proper steps to improve your IAQ. There are also measures you can take at home to improve your IAQ by controlling humidity levels— here are a few.
- Utilize an exhaust fan – Use your exhaust fan when taking a shower or cooking in the kitchen. This will help disperse any moisture that can build up during these activities.
- Invest in a dehumidifier/humidifier – Depending on your humidity levels, it’s wise to invest in a humidifier for low humidity or a dehumidifier for high humidity. This is a popular option for those having problems with humidity levels outside of the recommended ranges. An HVAC technician can help you find the equipment that is best suited for your home.
- Asses your ventilation – The best way to achieve peak indoor air quality is by contacting an HVAC professional for an assessment of your current ventilation systems. They have the knowledge and know-how required for achieving and maintaining proper ventilation in your home.
If your indoor air quality needs to be improved, Comfort Solutions has trained and certified HVAC technicians that can bring your indoor air quality to its optimum level.
Please call us at 610-438-9300 or contact us to set up your appointment today.
