The Midwest is known for high humidity, but that doesn’t mean your family has to feel sticky and uncomfortable all summer. Luckily, a few adjustments to your daily routine and HVAC system can help lower the water vapor levels and dry out the air. Here’s a closer look at these tricks.

How Can You Decrease Humidity in Summer?

1. Use a Portable Dehumidifier

Many families add portable dehumidifiers to their bedrooms and turn on the systems at night to improve their sleep. This device runs a fan to pull in moist air and move it across coils that are cooled by a refrigerant. The moisture condenses onto the coils and collects in a drip pan. Make sure to empty the drip pan daily to avoid leaks.

2. Regularly Run the AC 

It’s tempting to turn off the air conditioner and open the windows when the temperature outside is reasonable. However, a mid-70s temp doesn’t always mean low humidity. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends adjusting the thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit to cool your household and mitigate moisture with the HVAC system.

3. Skip Hot Water

Taking a hot shower increases the humidity in the home as the water evaporates and turns into vapor. Take lukewarm or cool showers to avoid contributing to the moisture. Turn on the bathrooms’ exhaust vents to transport humid indoor air to the outside and prevent this avoidable buildup.

4. Move the Plants Outside 

Houseplants can remove carbon dioxide, formaldehyde, and benzene from the home. While they’re great at improving air quality, they also produce humidity by releasing moisture through their leaves during a process called transpiration. Move your houseplants outdoors during the summer, where they can bask in the sunlight and enjoy natural rain while lowering the humidity in the home for free.

5. Do Larger, Less Frequent Loads of Laundry

Your washer and dryer may be major contributors to indoor humidity. Consider doing fewer, larger loads of laundry and drying your clothes and linens on a line outside to prevent the water vapor from entering the home. 

Homeowners interested in lowering their utility bills should contact Anderson Automatic Heating & Cooling in Hamilton County, OH. The HVAC company has been in business for over 85 years, and the technicians are experts at all makes and models of air conditioners and furnaces. Visit the Cincinnati-area company’s website or call them at (513) 574-0005 to learn about their HVAC services.