A Guide to Indoor Humidity

Indoor humidity is critical in maintaining a comfortable and healthy living environment. It affects everything from your home’s structural integrity to your personal well-being. Sacramento’s extreme humidity swings (from dry summers to damp winters) make understanding and managing indoor humidity essential. Let’s explore everything you need to know about home humidity.

What is Indoor Humidity?

Indoor humidity refers to the moisture content of the air inside your home. It is measured as relative humidity (RH), which is expressed as a percentage. RH indicates how much moisture the air contains compared to the maximum it can hold at a given temperature. For example, 50% RH means the air is holding half the moisture it is capable of at that temperature. Of course, warm air holds much more moisture than cold air, so the ideal RH percentage will adjust seasonally.

Ideal Humidity Levels for Your Home

The optimal indoor humidity level typically ranges between 30% and 50% RH. This range ensures comfort, prevents health issues, and protects your home from damage. However, you can also take your personal preferences and Sacramento’s climate into account when exploring your ideal humidity level:

• Summer: Sacramento’s dry heat can lower indoor humidity levels. Aim for 40%–50% RH to counteract dryness.
• Winter: Damp conditions in winter may increase indoor humidity. Keep it between 30% and 40% RH to avoid excess moisture.

Maintaining these levels helps create a balanced environment that supports your health and your home.

Problems Caused by Low Indoor Humidity

Low humidity is common during Sacramento’s hot, dry summers. It can lead to several issues, including:

• Health Problems: Dry air can cause respiratory issues, dry skin, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. 
• Damage to Wooden Furniture and Floors: Lack of moisture can cause wood to crack, warp, or shrink.
• Static Electricity: Dry air increases static electricity, which can be annoying and potentially harmful to electronics.

Causes of Low Humidity

So, what causes low levels of humidity in your home? Dry air can be caused by a few factors, including:

• Climate: Sacramento’s low precipitation leads to dry summers, which naturally reduce indoor moisture levels.
• Air Conditioning: AC systems can remove moisture from the air, exacerbating dryness.
• Poor Insulation: Homes with inadequate insulation may struggle to retain moisture.
• Behaviors: Some activities, like frequently running a drying machine, can remove moisture from the air — especially without proper ventilation. 

Solutions for Low Humidity

Thankfully, there are some easy ways to combat low home humidity, including:

• Use a Humidifier: A humidifier adds moisture to the air, helping maintain optimal humidity levels.
• Seal Windows and Doors: Prevent dry air from entering your home by sealing gaps and cracks.
• Add Indoor Plants: Plants release moisture into the air, naturally increasing humidity.

Problems Caused by High Indoor Humidity

High humidity is more common during Sacramento’s damp winters. It can lead to several issues for your home and health, including:

1. Mold and Mildew Growth: Excess moisture creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can damage your home and pose health risks.
2. Dust Mites: High humidity supports the growth of dust mites, which can trigger allergies and asthma.
3. Damage to Walls and Ceilings: Moisture can cause paint to peel, wallpaper to bubble, and structural damage.
4. Uncomfortable Living Conditions: High humidity can make your home feel hot, sticky, and stuffy, reducing comfort.

Causes of High Humidity

High humidity can occur naturally, especially when Sacramento’s occasional damp conditions increase indoor moisture levels. However, noticeable humidity is often the sign of an issue in your home, which may require immediate attention, including:

• Leaky Pipes, Roofs, Appliances, or Air Conditioners: Water leaks from pipes, roofing issues, leaky appliances, or your HVAC system can cause excess humidity in your home. 
• Poor Ventilation: Lack of airflow can trap moisture inside your home.
• Overuse of Humidifiers: Using a humidifier excessively can raise humidity above the ideal level. 
• Busted Drain Lines: Sacramento trees are notorious for seeking out the water in your sewer and drain lines, which can leave your pipes vulnerable. Extra standing water in your yard, paired with the California heat, can cause extra humidity in and around your home. 
• Clogged Condensate Line: When your condensate line gets clogged, extra water from your air conditioner may be sitting in your home. You can read more about the signs of a clogged condensate line here.

Solutions for High Home Humidity

Unfortunately, high home humidity may require a bit more work to resolve than low humidity; however, there are solutions available to homeowners, including:

• Use a Dehumidifier: A dehumidifier removes excess moisture from the air, helping maintain optimal levels.
• Improve Ventilation: Open windows and use exhaust fans to increase airflow and reduce moisture.
• Fix Leaks: Have a professional inspect your home for signs of an issue. Repair any leaky pipes or appliance issues to prevent water from entering your home.

Monitoring and Maintaining Indoor Humidity

To ensure your home stays within the ideal humidity range, invest in a hygrometer. This device measures indoor humidity levels, allowing you to make adjustments as needed. Regular HVAC maintenance is also crucial for managing humidity. Clean or replace filters, check for leaks, and ensure your system is functioning efficiently.

Bonney Home Services in Sacramento

With professionals dedicated to air quality, HVAC maintenance, and plumbing, Bonney has the support you need to keep your home comfortable. Our local home service experts proudly serve the greater Sacramento area, including Folsom, Roseville, Orangevale, Fair Oaks, and beyond. We invite you to explore our coupons or make an appointment here online to get started today!