Indoor humidity can be extremely irritating, so here are some fixes for northern Utah homeowners!
Northern Utah is known for its rather dry air, which is one of the reasons why our region is known for having the greatest snow on Earth. But with our dry climate sometimes comes abnormal indoor air fluctuations, particularly when it comes to indoor humidity.
Excessive indoor humidity is terrible for your home’s architectural integrity, and it can also be unhealthy when it leads to mold development. Below we’ll be detailing the ideal humidity levels for northern Utah homes, and some essential tips on controlling your property’s moisture levels!
What Should My Home’s Humidity Levels Be?
Indoor humidity levels are actually very important when it comes to creating a comfortable and enjoyable property for your family and guests, and on average, northern Utah homes should keep their indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%.
Anything higher than 50%, and you’ll likely start feeling a bit hot and sticky. Excessive indoor humidity can also be detrimental for those with respiratory ailments like asthma, or any other breathing difficulties. Mold development is likely around 60%, and properties are at a severe risk of mold development when their humidity levels rise about 70%.
Some common warning signs that your home’s humidity levels are too high include:
- Mildew smells in your home’s fabrics
- Condensation buildup on glass surfaces
- Stucco and wood materials easily crumbling
- Mold spore growth on your walls
- Increased allergy symptoms
- Paint chips falling off easily
- Pest or dust mite increases
- Night sweats
How Can I Control Indoor Humidity At My Northern Utah Home?
There are many ways that northern Utah homeowners can control and test their indoor humidity levels, including:
Hygrometers
Hygrometers are incredibly useful tools that make it easy to measure indoor humidity in your home. Most home improvement stores will have these devices readily available, and the instructions are pretty seamless in terms of testing and measuring humidity.
One thing to keep in mind with hygrometers is that your indoor humidity levels will typically be impacted as outdoor humidity levels change.
Dehumidifiers
Dehumidifiers, or anti-humidifiers, are another great way to help you prevent mildew and mold development throughout your property. Sometimes these devices are only needed in tight corners, closets or basements, but you’ll simply want to make sure that your unit covers the amount of square footage that you need it to.
Increased Ventilation
Increasing your home’s ventilation can also help maintain proper indoor humidity levels, and it can also help avoid moisture buildup on your home’s surface and general infrastructure.
One easy way to increase your home’s ventilation is to decrease the amount of water vapor in your laundry rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, etc.
You can also try opening your windows and turning your ceiling fans on to help push excessive humidity outside. Cooking with your exhaust fans and dehumidifier on is also an easy strategy to increase your home’s ventilation.
Quickly Cleaning Up Wet Spots
If you notice any wet areas throughout your property, it’ll be important that you dry these areas up as best as you can to avoid humidity buildup. This can include things like taking your wet shower towels outside to air dry, and immediately cleaning up large spills.
Beehive Heating & Air Is Here To Help When Your Home Has Abnormal Indoor Humidity Levels!
Beehive Heating & Air has provided residential, commercial, and industrial HVAC services throughout northern Utah for many years, and our team is here to help you when your property is experiencing issues like excessive indoor humidity.
Contact us online or call us at 801-849-3860 to speak with our industry experts today about how we can help you remediate your indoor humidity levels!