Humidity Control: A Must for Florida Homes
We've talked about Humidity and keeping it as low a possible in your house, but usually while talking about your HVAC System. Considering we live in one of the most humid climates in the country, we have to prevent unwanted, and potentially hazardous growth out of our homes.
Keeping humidity levels down in our homes prevents many things, the obvious is mold and mildew accumulation and growth. Both of these by themselves can be enough to cause breathing issues, and increase allergies.
Dryer air, inside of our homes usually means cooler air, and as such more efficient AC Systems. However in Contrast higher humidity in our homes makes the air heavier to move, which means your fans and air conditioner need to work harder to move it.
We don't want our air inside of our homes completely dry, as too much of one thing can cause health problems. The optimal range for internal humidity in Florida homes, is between 45% and 55% humidity. While that number may seem high, its not optimal to dry the air completely. Humidity in our homes also affects the Air Quality.
One inexpensive tool that you can buy is called a Hygrometer. This tool can help you check to see if the humidity levels in your home are too high.
Humidity in the air is inescapable in Florida, but it can be controlled in our homes. Here's a couple of indicators that the humidity in your home may be a little high:
- Increased insect infestations
- Damp or Moist Clothing in drawers or closets
- Stale or Dank smells in cabinets and under sinks
- Unexpected Increase in Mold or Mildew growth
- Paper products curl or "Wilt"
You also want to ensure that the humidity isn't too low. there are also signs that the humidity in your home/apartment could be too low:
- Dry Skin or Itchy Eyes
- Static
While not entirely indicative of high humidity, some of these may also signify a leak in your walls. A water leak, can contribute to the humidity in your home, but there are also other factors that can as well.
- An undersized AC unit for your home or Apartment
- Drainage issues or Leaks behind walls
- Dripping or running Faucets
- Poorly insulated windows and/or doors
- Sewage and Drain Pipe Backups
- Keeping your Humidistat or Thermostat at acceptable ranges
Humidity control
As we said we don't want to entirely obliterate the humidity from our homes, but there are ways to control it.
Buying a House or Portable Dehumidifier is one possible tool to get the humidity in your home under control. There are also less costly measures that can also help:
- Good Old Charcoal : Placing Charcoal in a basket or old can will assist. Charcoal is a highly absorbent material and guess what? It loves moisture. You'll only have to switch out the briquettes about every 60-90 days.
- Use your exhaust or ventilation fans : Bathrooms, Stove hoods have them. Let them run a few minutes after the main use to help move that moist out of the house
- Fix Leaks or Broken Pipes: If the humidity levels are constantly high, there may be a problem with your fixtures and pipes. Let our Skilled Technicians and Plumbers here at Arctic Air and Home Services take a look. Schedule and Appointment today