Humidity in the summer is uncomfortable outdoors, and it’s even worse when you can’t escape from it inside your house. Excess moisture can also cause mold to grow. Here are some ways that you can effectively reduce humidity in the home.
Get a Hygrometer
Start battling indoor humidity by monitoring levels with a hygrometer. The ideal indoor humidity levels are 30-50% to keep your home healthy and comfortable. If the hygrometer is showing higher levels, use some of the tips below to reduce humidity.
Check the Basement or Crawlspace for Water
Moisture and standing water in the lowest level of the home evaporate into the air and make the whole house more humid. Check your basement and crawlspace for water and take steps to remove and prevent moisture buildup. These might include laying a vapor barrier in the crawlspace or installing a sump pump in the basement.
Use Ventilation Fans
Ventilation fans are in bathrooms and kitchens to help reduce humidity in the home. Cooking and showering create heat and moisture which raise humidity levels. Turn on ventilation fans during these activities to pull the damp, warm air up and out of the home. Leave them on for an extra 20 minutes after you are done to clear out excess moisture.
Adjust Your Habits to Reduce Humidity in the Home
Simply reducing your shower times and cooking less indoors can aid you in your attempts to reduce humidity in the home. Shave a few minutes off your shower during the summer and use cooler water. Instead of cooking on your stove, opt for grilling outdoors. Changing your habits will help keep your home climate-controlled and more comfortable.
Reduce Humidity in the Home with a Dehumidifier
A dehumidifier is a must for any household with a humidity problem. You can attach a whole-house dehumidifier to the HVAC or use small portable units in the rooms that need them. Running dehumidifiers in the bathrooms, kitchen, basement, and laundry room is an effective method to lower humidity levels.
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