Relative humidity (RH) is a percentage expressing the amount of water vapor in the air relative to its temperature. It compares the actual amount of water vapor in the air to the total amount of vapor the air can hold at its current temperature. According to experts, ideal indoor RH is between 30% and 50%. Anything lower than 30% makes a room feel uncomfortably dry. Relative humidity higher than 60% makes a room feel muggy, sometimes to the point where air conditioning can no longer keep you comfortable.

When Relative Humidity Is Too Low

Low humidity dries out your body. It can lead to dehydration as well as dry sinuses, eyes and skin. You or members of your household may be more subject to nosebleeds and problems such as asthma or bronchitis. Your eyes itch all the time, and infections take longer to heal. Low humidity can also hurt your house as wood furnishings warp or crack and wallpaper peels away from the walls. You may also find you’re more subject to stings from static electricity.

When Relative Humidity Is Too High

High humidity creates an environment for pollutants such as mold spores, viruses, bacteria and the pollen that can make someone with allergies feel miserable. Too much humidity makes it harder for the air to circulate, which not only leads to a feeling of oppression but makes it harder for the air to flush out pollutants. Wood is also more likely to rot, and this attracts termites and other pests. A humid indoor space also traps heat and makes it harder to benefit from air conditioning. A vulnerable person might start to suffer from heat cramps or heat exhaustion.

What You Can Do to Achieve the Right Humidity Level

Ways to control the relative humidity level in your home depend on whether it’s too high or too low. First, if you’re not sure what your RH level is, invest in a hygrometer. Then, if you find you have high humidity, you can do the following:

• Open the doors and windows to equalize the humidity with the outside, and let in fresh air. Turn off the HVAC before you do this.
• Make sure your air conditioning is working well. Have an HVAC technician check it at least once a year, and be sure to change the filters on schedule.
• Buy a dehumidifier.

If the humidity is too low, you can:

• Buy a humidifier.
• Close up any drafts around doors and windows with weather stripping,
• Place some houseplants around the room.

Call Us to Learn More About Indoor Air Quality

If your home feels too humid or too dry, you might need the professional help. To improve the quality of your indoor air in North Salt Lake, UT, contact our HVAC technicians at Alta Air.