When it comes to keeping your home comfortable, heating and cooling play a big role—but temperature isn’t the only factor. Maintaining the right level of humidity is also important. Humidity plays a significant part in air quality and, subsequently, your health. Below, you’ll find more information about why you should talk to an HVAC contractor about the humidity in your home and available solutions. 

Effects of Humidity

The ideal home humidity level varies from source to source, but generally rests somewhere between 40% and 55% relative humidity. This is because both low and high levels carry risks to your health and comfort. Viruses and bacteria thrive in low humidity, increasing your risk of illnesses and infections. You’ll also find that dry air affects your nose and throat, causing soreness and irritation.

Excessive humidity also creates a haven for dust mites, which cause allergic reactions in certain individuals, and promotes mold growth, which has been linked to serious health effects.

Finally, both low and high humidity can damage your belongings. The former poses a problem for wooden flooring and furniture, which shrinks and cracks under these conditions. High humidity encourages mildew on cloth and paper, which can result in discoloration and deterioration.

How to Fix It

Thankfully, adjusting your humidity is simple, and many home HVAC systems incorporate this function. Both heating and cooling equipment naturally remove moisture from the air, decreasing the relative humidity whenever they run. If your home is too dry, a humidifier is an easy fix—which is why many units already incorporate one. If your home doesn’t have this feature, talk to your HVAC contractor about installing one.

To prevent respiratory infections, irritation, allergic reactions, and property damage, it’s essential to control the humidity in your home. With a combination of humidifying and dehumidifying equipment from an HVAC contractor, you can maintain the ideal level of moisture for your health and comfort.

Arc Electric & Air Conditioning & Heating is Newport, KY’s, top HVAC contractor for residential, commercial, and industrial clients. Whether you need heating and air conditioning repairs or a visit from an electrician, they have the training and experience to handle any problem. Arrange services to adjust your home’s humidity levels by calling (859) 441-7161 or sending them a message online.