Humidity is the amount of moisture in the air. It’s essential to keep humidity levels in your home balanced to keep the environment comfortable for living. Excess moisture also contributes to mold and mildew. Signs of high humidity levels include water stains on the walls or ceilings, the presence of mold and condensation on windows. According to MovinCool comfortable humidity level in the home is typically 30-50%. Allergies can also be irritated by humidity levels above 50%. Pinpoint areas in your home where excess humidity is coming from and take measures toward dehumidification.
Sources of moisture can be a wet basement, leaking roof or a heating or cooling system that isn’t properly sized for your home. Ventilate areas where water builds up, particularly the kitchen and the bathroom. Use vent fans if they’re installed in your home, or crack a window open an inch or two to let the excess moisture out. Bathrooms are where most of the humidity builds up, especially after taking a long, hot shower. A portable dehumidifier is an alternative way to take some of the excess moisture out of the air.
During the summer months or in warmer climates you might consider using a portable air conditioner. These are ideal for bathrooms or areas without windows to put a typical window unit in. Keep in mind that humidity levels will also vary with the temperature outside, and it is common for it to be slightly more humid, around 50%, in the summer and roughly 25-40% humidity indoors during the winter.