With summer just getting started, you’re likely familiar with the effects of too much humidity. While there’s no way to control outdoor humidity, achieving a balance between dehumidification and humidification indoors can protect the condition of your home and ensure the health of your family. Here are a few ways humidity levels can affect your home environment.

Effects of High or Low Humidity

1. Harmful Growth

Organisms such as bacteria, mold, mildew, and algae thrive in high humidity. These growths can contribute to allergies, asthma, and other respiratory conditions, so dehumidification is key in maintaining a healthful home environment. Black mold can be particularly harmful, so if you suspect it’s present in your home, call a mold remediation specialist for a professional inspection.

2. Condensation

If there is condensation on the inside of your windows, the humidity in your home is too high. Fogged-up windows do more than block your view; over time, that water can run down the glass and onto the wooden window frames, leading to rot. Condensation can also accumulate on your walls, causing wallpaper to peel.

3. Dehydration

Humidity levels that are either too high or too low can cause dehydration. In high humidity, you tend to sweat more, causing your body to lose precious fluids. In low humidity, your body doesn’t get enough moisture, which can lead to dry skin, nosebleeds, and eye irritation. In addition to using a humidifier, you can counteract some of the effects of dry air by using unscented skin care products and applying moisturizer after showering.

4. Static Electricity

When there’s not enough humidity in your home, you may be irritated by frequent small shocks, your hair standing on end, or your clothes clinging to each other. Static is more than just an annoyance, though — a spark can short out your electronics or even start a fire.

5. Wood Damage

While too much moisture can lead to wood rot, air that is too dry can make your wooden furniture and floors crack or warp. And if you have wooden items that are held together by glue, the adhesive can dry out and cause them to fall apart. To keep them in top condition, you'll want to keep these pieces out of direct sunlight and away from HVAC vents. Try to achieve a temperature of about 70 degrees and 50% humidity for best results.

If you’re struggling with too much humidity, call Arkansas Restoration Services. Based in Russellville, this locally owned and operated restoration company offers personalized service in Pope, Yell, Conway, and Johnson counties. For over 30 years, they have been providing a wide range of restoration services, including dehumidification, water damage repair, smoke damage restoration, and mold removal. Call (479) 967-2018 today to schedule an appointment or visit their website for more information on available services.