Have you ever had this conversation in the summer? “Wow, it’s really hot today.” “Yeah – and humid, too.” We like to blame the humidity when it’s uncomfortable outside – but have you considered how it impacts the feeling of indoor air? Temperature isn’t the only factor to consider if you want to stay comfortable this summer.
Let’s dive into the importance of the relative humidity level inside your home. What is the relative humidity level? When it comes to measuring humidity, there are two methods – and it’s important to understand the differences. Absolute humidity is how much water in the air, regardless of the air temperature. But when we typically talk about indoor humidity levels, we’re referring to the relative humidity level (RHL). This is the amount of water relative to the temperature. RHL is shown as a percentage of the total amount of moisture that could be held in the air at the current temperature.
How humidity affects indoor comfort
Warm air can hold more moisture than cold air. So if the total moisture in the air (absolute humidity) stays the same but the temperature changes, that’s going to change the relative humidity level. So what does this mean for your home? In general, a high RHL can make warm temperatures feel hotter (even unbearable). However, if the humidity level is appropriate, it’s possible to feel cooler and more comfortable inside without adjusting the thermostat of your air conditioning. Sounds pretty good, right?
Recommendations for indoor humidity levels
It’s fairly straightforward to know what the humidity should be inside your home. The recommended range is between 30-50%. You can test your level with a hygrometer or thermometer that displays RHL. Keeping the humidity in the recommended range isn’t important for just your comfort – it’s also good for your health. High humidity can mildew and mold growth, while air that’s too dry can aggravate allergies, asthma, and other health conditions.
How to control the humidity level
There are a few different ways you manage the humidity level in your home, or at the very least reduce it during the hot summer months. An air conditioning system will draw some moisture from the indoor air, but that’s not its main function and control is limited. There are small, portable dehumidifiers but these units can only serve a small area, can be loud, and require maintenance to prevent the growth of bacteria or mold. The best option is a whole-home dehumidifier, which works with your existing heating and cooling system to effectively and efficiently control the humidity level throughout your entire home.
Humidity management systems in Buffalo, MN
Now that you understand the role that humidity plays in your indoor comfort, it’s time to find the best whole-home dehumidifier to enhance your existing cooling system. For a consultation with a local professional, call DeZiel Heating & AC today at (763) 200-5453 .
