How You Can Lower Your Humidity At Your House
While humidity in the air is beneficial, too much of a good thing can quickly become a bad thing. Summers in Edwardsville, IL, are typically very humid, which can significantly impact indoor air quality.
When humidity levels exceed 55%, the air is more likely to harbor allergens like dust mites, mold, and mildew. This can lead to skin rashes, itchy eyes, and difficulty breathing. High humidity can also cause water stains on the walls or ceilings of your home, condensation on the windows, musty odors, and mold spore growth.
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to reduce the amount of moisture in your home’s air.
Easy Ways to Lower Your Humidity
Run Exhaust Fans
Kitchen and bathroom fans help remove excess humidity, preventing mold growth. So running your exhaust fans when cooking or showering goes a long way in ridding the air of too much moisture.
Grow Plants That Absorb Moisture from Humidity
Like English ivies and Boston ferns, some plants improve the air quality in your home by removing carbon dioxide and adding more oxygen. In addition to this, plants like these are also effective in removing moisture from the air.
Take Shorter Showers
When you shower, a lot of moisture releases into the air. By decreasing the duration of your showers or even bumping the water temperature down, you can significantly reduce how much humidity releases into the air.
Replace Carpeting
If you plan to replace your home’s carpeting anytime soon, consider swapping it out for hard flooring. Carpets retain a significant amount of moisture, and replacing them with tile, laminate, or hardwood flooring can reduce humidity in the air.
Invest in a Dehumidifier
A portable or whole-house dehumidifier effectively pulls moisture from the air, promoting a cleaner, more comfortable environment. Dehumidifiers range in size. From small, large and whole-house models ideal for homeowners in very humid climates. The best humidifier for your needs will depend on how high the humidity levels in your home are, your space limitations, and your budget.
At B & W Heating and Air Conditioning, our technicians know necessary to help you enjoy a comfortable home all summer long. Contact us today to learn more or to set up a consultation.