Sometimes it is easy to ignore your home’s indoor humidity when considering the climate inside your property. However, incorrect humidity levels can lead to serious issues inside your home. This is why it is essential to know how to measure your home’s humidity levels and when to call an HVAC professional.
How to Measure Levels of Indoor Relative Humidity
One of the best ways to measure the humidity level inside your home is by using a hygrometer. It is a device that accurately measures the temperature and humidity inside your home. There are also other alternative methods to measure your home’s humidity when a hygrometer is not accessible. Let’s explore more options.
Measure Humidity Using an Ice Cube
There are basic methods that help you find out the humidity levels inside your home. One of these is the ice cube method. To use this method, you will need a glass of water and a couple of ice cubes. To begin, put two ice cubes in a glass of water and wait to see how it transforms.
If you notice that condensation starts to form, it may start to drip outside of the glass. This would be an indication that the levels of humidity inside your home are too high. In comparison, if you notice that no condensation has formed outside the glass, it means that humidity levels are very low.
Be sure to perform this test in a place of your home that does not have other elements such as cooking vapors that can throw off the test results when performed in the kitchen. It is also recommended that you exit the room when doing the ice cube test because air currents from your body’s movement can alter the results as well.
What Is the Difference Between Dry and Wet Bulb Thermometer Temperatures
Another way to measure the humidity inside your home is by using glass thermometers. It is a method that calls for a few more items compared to the ice cube method. However, it provides a highly accurate result when measuring your indoor humidity levels. You will need two standard glass thermometers.
In order to do this type of humidity test, you will need to leave one of the thermometers intact, which will represent the dry bulb. You will then need to wrap a wet cotton ball that covers the entire section of the bottom of the bulb of the other thermometer. Make sure the bulb is securely fastened with the help of a rubber band. This one will represent the wet bulb.
It is best to use water at room temperature in order to keep the cotton ball moist. This prevents the temperature of the water from altering the test results. Once you have prepared the wet bulb, you must put both thermometers next to each other on top of a piece of cardboard.
When you have both thermometers side-by-side, you can let them rest for approximately five minutes. After that time, you can check the temperature readings on both of the thermometers and take note of the results.
Take the results and subtract the temperature reading of the wet bulb from the dry bulb. This number will provide you with the depression value. Finally, see how your results compare to a Relative Humidity = RH % chart. It will provide you with a pretty accurate result of the humidity level inside your home. If humidity levels are too high or too low, you will need the assistance of a trusted HVAC professional in your area.
The Ideal Indoor Humidity Level
The ideal indoor humidity level inside your home greatly depends on the season. This is especially true during the changes in weather in the winter and summer seasons. There are industry guidelines that are set to help homeowners find out rough estimates of their indoor humidity levels during the hottest and coldest months of the year. It is best to check the humidity level of each room inside your home. When you notice that humidity levels are not where they should be, it is time to call experienced heating and cooling professionals in your area for expert assistance.
Humidity During Summer Season
During the hot summer months, it is ideal to keep a relative humidity reading inside your home of 40 to 50%. This will provide a comfortable indoor environment during the hot summer season. Once the humidity level inside your home reaches more than 60%, you will notice the indoor air becoming uncomfortable and muggy.
Humidity During Winter Season
On cold winter days, your home will feel best with a relative humidity reading of 30 to 40%. If the humidity level rises above 40%, it will cause the formation of condensation on your windows.
How to Effectively Manage Indoor Humidity
In order to effectively measure, monitor, and maintain indoor humidity levels inside your home, you must keep a watchful eye. There are ways of protecting your home against excessive moisture. These are some ways to keep your indoor humidity levels at a beneficial percentage.
Effective Ways to Lower Your Indoor Humidity Levels
There are many ways for you to achieve a lower indoor humidity level inside your home. Some effective methods include using exhaust fans, which will help decrease excessive moisture in the air. You can also use a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier is ideal for eliminating humidity that causes the growth of mildew and produces musty odors inside your home.
Another way to naturally keep moisture levels in check inside your home is by having house plants. It is a great way to decorate your home while providing the atmosphere with fresh oxygen and absorbing excessive moisture in the air.
You can also avoid boiling water in order to reduce moisture in the air inside your home. When you boil water on the stove, it can make the humidity inside your home rise. Additionally, taking long hot showers can also cause the humidity levels inside your home to increase. Shower with cooler water instead to prevent this from happening. When you must take hot showers or boil water, be sure to use your home’s fans and vents. Many bathrooms have exhaust fans installed. The range hood over your stove should have a similar feature as well.
Another way to prevent excessive moisture in the air is to avoid using the dryer to dry your laundry. By hanging your clothes instead, you will prevent added moisture in the air. Finally, by keeping the filter in your HVAC unit clean, you will be able to prevent excessive moisture inside your home. This is because a dirty filter causes the unit to work harder and less efficiently.
Trusted HVAC Professionals in Richmond and Surrounding Areas
Since 1984, Davis & Green has helped homeowners with their heating and cooling needs. By providing excellent customer service and professional expertise, we have gained the trust of the Richmond community. In addition to heating and cooling services, we also provide plumbing, electrical, and construction services. We are also the area’s favorite Lennox Premier Dealer. To keep your home at the ideal humidity level, contact Davis & Green today for a consultation!
