You might already be attentive to the temperature in your home, but what about its humidity? Maintaining the right humidity level can be tricky because throughout the year you may need to switch between humidifiers and dehumidifiers to create a comfortable environment.
Read on to learn all you need to know about both humidifiers and dehumidifiers.
What is the difference between a humidifier and a dehumidifier?
Their names give you a big clue as to what makes these appliances different! Humidifiers bring moisture to the air, so they’re useful when the air is too dry. Generally, these are used in winter.
In contrast, a dehumidifier removes moisture from the air when the atmosphere is too humid. These are popular during the spring and summer months. If you have serious allergies, you probably already know about the benefits that dehumidifiers can bring.
Even people without allergies can enjoy the fact that dehumidifiers make the air feel less stale and sticky in a home during humid weather.
Should I buy a humidifier or a dehumidifier?
It depends on the range of humidity that your home experiences throughout the year. The average humidity in a home is somewhere between 30 and 50%. When humidity exceeds 50%, a dehumidifier can be very useful. If the humidity level is consistently less than 30%, then this is a sign that a humidifier is required.
To find out what your home’s humidity level is, use a hygrometer! They can be found in most home improvement stores. Bear in mind that the humidity in your home is bound to change from season to season.
Why does humidity matter?
Getting the right level of humidity can help with ailments such as asthma, allergies, and chest congestion.
If you have asthma that is triggered by humid air, for example, then you will probably find that a dehumidifier brings significant health benefits. On other hand, if you are experiencing sinus congestion, a humidifier can relieve your symptoms.
In a home that needs a humidifier, you might find yourself with dry skin, chapped lips, and itchy eyes. In a home that needs a dehumidifier, you might feel stuffy or even notice dampness on ceilings and walls.
Over time, air that is too dry can cause problems with the structure of your home. Too much moisture can create the perfect conditions for mold to develop. Too little moisture can cause your wood beams and plaster to crack.
Bear in mind that the humidity level of your home can also determine whether it attracts pests or not. Humid homes are more appealing for carpenter ants, termites, and beetles.
What’s the relationship between humidity levels and the weather?
It figures that the naturally more humid weather of the summer would also have an impact inside our homes. In winter, when the air is drier and colder, we often turn on our heaters, which make the situation worse by removing even more moisture!
If you’re considering investing in portable humidifiers and dehumidifiers to maintain the right humidity level in your home, speak to Beehive Heating and Air.
We can talk you through a full range of HVAC solutions that could suit your circumstances, including whole-home humidifiers and dehumidifiers that automatically adjust depending on the weather!