How to… Control Indoor Humidity

It’s that time of year when the windows are locked shut and the heating is up. Add the moisture from damp winter weather, and humidity skyrockets. But having a high relative humidity (RH) in your home leads to mold growth and dust mites – both of which make buildings smell musty and damage your home and property. Here are some useful, every day tips you can do at home for identifying and controlling humidity:

Take Levels

You can pick-up a hygrometer online and use it to measure humidity levels in several locations – after which, you take an average reading. A good rule of thumb: 50% relative humidity is normal for summer; while in winter it can read 30% or below on colder days. So long as the numbers don’t go over their high end percentages, you’re good.

Take A Look

If after you take your levels you find that you whole home is humid, consider these factors:

• Lack of ventilation
  Without the circulation of fresh air, humidity can build up indoors, and is particularly prevalent in newer, well-sealed homes.
• Oversized air conditioner
  Central air is an excellent dehumidifier, but if the system is too large for the property, the on-cycles are not long enough to remove humidity.
• Poorly ventilated gas-fueled appliance
  If you believe this is the cause, RISE recommends contacting a qualified contractor to investigate.

Take A Closer Look

Not a general problem? Localized high humidity in one area, but not another, can be caused by overcooling a particular area. Ways to ensure this stops happening is to ensure proper use bathroom exhaust fans, and dehumidifying dampness in your basement and crawlspaces.

Take Control

In many instances, a dehumidifier may be the best way to control dampness in your home. Top tip: select a dehumidifier sized for use in the space in question. An undersized unit won’t reduce moisture effectively.

Those are our top tips on identifying and controlling humidity! Not able to get your humidity levels under control? Maybe it’s time to move to that beautiful dream home! Contact one of our licensed agents and get the process started.