Is Too Much Humidity an Indoor Air Quality Concern?

More and more, people are concerned about the air they’re breathing in their homes. Respiratory concerns like allergies and asthma have been on the rise over the last couple of decades. Not to mention, people are more aware of pathogens like bacteria and viruses in the air they breathe. Of course, most people know that removing germs from their indoor air, as well as allergens like pollen and dander, can help them have better indoor air quality. But did you know that if your indoor air is too humid that can also cause concerns?

Excessive humidity is usually more of a problem during the summer months than in the winter. This is because hot air tends to hold more humidity than cold air. While a home’s air conditioning system can often help to keep some indoor humidity at bay, during very humid weather, it may not work as well. If left unchecked, too much humidity in your home can become an indoor air quality concern, mainly because it encourages the growth of mold, mildew, and some forms of bacteria. Fortunately, there are a few ways you can easily tell if your home is too humid.

5 Signs That Your Home Is Too Humid

1. Mold & Mildew Growth: This is a telltale sign of a home that’s too damp. If you’re noticing mold or mildew growing on floors, walls, or ceilings, you definitely want to get your home’s humidity levels in check.
2. Condensation on Windows: There can be times when you notice condensation on windows that have a good explanation, like after you’ve showered or if you’re boiling water on the stovetop. But if you’re noticing it at other times, your home is likely too damp.
3. Peeling Paint: If you’re noticing that painted woodwork, moldings, or walls seem to be peeling, there’s a good chance that it’s a direct result of too much moisture. That’s because excess moisture makes it hard for paint to adhere to the surface beneath it.
4. Lower AC Efficiency: Even though your air conditioning system can help remove some humidity from the air, that’s not what its primary job is. So, if your home is too humid, it can make your AC system work harder – and use more energy to operate.
5. Wood Rot: Unfortunately, too much humidity in a home can cause wood to start rotting – and this can spell trouble for your home’s structural soundness. If you’re noticing there are areas where wood is soft, crumbly, or seems to just be rotting, high humidity is the likely culprit.

What can I do if humidity is a problem in my home?

The good news is, there are some things you can do right away to help with moisture concerns in your home. For starters, make sure to use the fans and ventilation systems in your kitchen and bathroom areas, especially when bathing or cooking. Consider purchasing a humidity monitor, also known as a hygrometer. Make sure you get annual maintenance on your home’s air conditioning system, so it’s operating as effectively as possible.

If humidity continues to be a concern after taking these measures, you may want to consider installing a whole-house dehumidification system.  At BC Express, we can help you with the indoor air quality products you need, like home dehumidification systems. If you need help, all you need to do is give us a call at 732.240.2828 and we will be more than happy to assist you.