Even in southeast Michigan, humidity can be a problem in summer months. Not only does humid or moist air inside your home make it uncomfortable, but it can also have an adverse effect on your health. At Haley Mechanical we want to inform homeowners about what causes humidity to develop, and how to handle it so that you enjoy a cooler, more comfortable home during the summer season.
Development of humidity inside your home
Not every day is extremely humid or uncomfortable, and moisture created by the environment varies by climate/season. Humidity is more of a problem in summer months because of the fact that warm air can hold more humidity, and humidity holds on to more heat than dry air. If you’ve noticed that “sticky” feeling on your skin, you know humidity holds the sweat on your skin, preventing the sweat from evaporating as it would in the less humid air. That being said, there are certain activities families engage in indoors that can increase humidity levels including cooking, running the dishwasher, or even taking a steamy shower.
How can you reduce the humidity indoors?
Today’s energy efficient air conditioners work to remove a small amount of humidity simply because they lower the temperature in your home. To lower the humidity levels, even more, try the following:
- Consider a portable or whole-house dehumidifier, depending on whether the humidity is high throughout your home, or just in specific areas. Sometimes a small portable dehumidifier placed in a bathroom or kitchen is all that’s necessary.
- Seal any air leaks in walls or ducts. Leaks in walls (such as around windows/doors, or where a window unit A/C is installed) can let in humid air. Excess humidity can also cause mold and mildew to grow inside the walls, as well as other areas of your home.
- Ventilate the kitchen, bathrooms, and utility room. Proper ventilation systems are important for preventing excess humidity/moisture, particularly in rooms that may become steamy or hot. Also, make sure your clothes dryer is vented to the outside.
- Make sure the condensate drain for your A/C system is clean and free of standing water.
Certain plants absorb some of their hydration from the air and therefore may help reduce humidity levels. These include Boston ferns, peace lilies, and air plants (tillandsia).
Need more tips to help keep your southeast Michigan home more comfortable during hot summer months? At Haley Mechanical, we take care of all of your home comfort needs. Give us a call today!
