Is Your Indoor Humidity Too High?

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Hazy, hot, wet, and humid – we’ve had a lot of that outdoors this summer. It’s possible that your indoors is suffering from the same problem.

Moist, damp conditions indoors can lead to mold and bacteria growth and increase the risk of insect and other pest problems. Learn more about recommended indoor humidity levels and how to maintain them to keep your home healthy this summer.

Follow these tips for a comfortable indoor environment that increases air quality too:

  • Keep indoor humidity between 30 and 50 percent: Use a moisture or humidity gauge, available at most hardware stores.
  • Install a dehumidifier in spaces that consistently have a relative humidity level that is higher than 60%: If dehumidifying a basement, consider purchasing a model designed for basement use
  • When outdoor air leaks in through cracks and gaps in your home, the indoor humidity level will become closer to the outdoor humidity level: Air sealing can be done to fix this problem.
  • If it is warm, turn on the air conditioner: Air conditioners get rid of moisture in the air as a by-product of cooling.
  • Vent appliances that produce moisture, such as clothes dryers, stoves, and kerosene heaters to the outside where possible, and hang your clothes outside to dry in summer.
  • Run the bathroom fan or open the window (if it is not humid outside) when showering.
  • Use exhaust fans or open windows whenever cooking, washing dishes etc.
  • Cover cold surfaces, such as cold-water pipes, with insulation to prevent condensation.
  • Too many plants can contribute to higher humidity: Avoid overcrowding with indoor plants.
  • Moisture problems in carpets often occur from underneath: Regularly cleaning them is the best way to prevent issues.


 
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