High indoor humidity is a common problem we encounter, especially during the monsoon season. However, it is not one to be neglected as it not only poses health risks, but can cause serious harm to the structural integrity of your home. So maintaining proper indoor humidity levels, ideally between 30 and 50 percent, is recommended for optimal comfort and well-being. In this article, we will familiarise you with ways to detect abnormal indoor humidity levels and how to mitigate them for a more comfortable and structurally sound living environment that is conducive to your well-being.
See also: How to improve air circulation at home?
Signs indicating high indoor humidity levels
To detect higher than normal humidity levels in your home, it is recommended to look out for these signs:
Condensation on windows
If your windows are persistently getting fogged on the inside, particularly during slightly cooler weather, it might be a sign of abnormal humidity levels. It is most noticeable in the morning when there is a significant temperature difference between the indoor and outdoor environments.
Damp spots or stains
The most common sign of moisture intrusion in homes is dark or discoloured patches on walls, ceilings or floors. They generally appear in corners, near windows or along baseboards and are a significant sign of high indoor humidity.
Mould and mildew
Mould and mildew appear in black, green or white patches on surfaces and are a clear sign of high humidity. The target areas to detect these should include bathrooms, kitchens, basements and around windows.
Peeling paint or wallpaper
High humidity can cause paint to bubble and peel and wallpapers to become loose and wrinkled. While these signs can appear anywhere, they are more common in areas like bathrooms, kitchens and basements.
Warped wood
Yet another tell-tale sign of high indoor humidity is warping and swelling of wood in floors, doors and furniture due to the accumulation of moisture. Keep a check for gaps in hardwood floors or unusual wobbles in furniture to detect this.
Musty odour
If you notice a persistent musty smell indoors, it might be indicative of the presence of mould and mildew, which thrive in highly humid environments. This odour is particularly strong and noticeable in basements, attics and bathrooms.
Increased allergies or respiratory issues
Due to increased dust mites and mould spores in the air, high humidity can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems in people vulnerable to them. If you notice your family members experiencing progressively worsening allergic symptoms like sneezing, coughing or itchy eyes, it might be a sign to pay attention to the humidity levels of your home.
Rusting metal
Metal items such as pipes, fixtures and appliances are prone to rust easily on excessive exposure to humidity. Rust on metal surfaces, especially in damp areas like basements and bathrooms, are indicative of abnormal humidity levels.
Damp fabrics
Towels, clothes and linens feeling constantly damp or taking longer to dry might be due to high humidity. Pay attention to laundry and bathroom linens as they are often the first to be affected by this problem.
Damage to electronic and paper items
Excess moisture in the air might cause electronics to malfunction and paper items to develop waves and mould on the surface. Regularly check for any condensation inside electronic devices and changes in the texture of paper items and address promptly to avoid irreversible damage.
Overwatering signs in houseplants
Despite following your regular watering schedule, if your indoor plants show signs of excess moisture such as yellowing leaves and mouldy soil, it is a significant warning sign. Inspect your indoor plants regularly for these signs to detect unusual humidity levels.
Increased pests
Highly humid environments can easily attract pests like dust mites, cockroaches and termites. Any increase in pest activity, especially in damp areas, is a sign to address humidity-related issues in your home.
Management and control tips
If you detect any of these signs in your home, it is important to take steps to mitigate them and address the humidity problem at its root. Here are some ways how you can do the same:
Ventilation
Installing an exhaust fan in the kitchen and bathrooms is an absolute must. Cooking activities like boiling and frying releases a lot of moisture in the air that must be let out. Similarly, running the exhaust fan after a hot shower can vent the humidity generated.
Facilitate cross ventilation across the space by opening windows on the opposite sides of your home and let out the accumulated moisture with the help of natural air circulation. On cooler days when outdoor humidity is low, consider opening windows and letting in as much fresh air as possible.
Dehumidifiers
Portable dehumidifiers are recommended for small to medium-sized spaces, especially damp-prone areas like basements, laundry rooms or bathrooms. To maintain optimal effectiveness, make sure to regularly empty the water tank and clean the filter.
There are whole-house dehumidifiers that are connected to your HVAC system to dehumidify the air as it circulates. These are highly recommended for use in areas experiencing long periods of high humidity across the year.
Air conditioning
Not only do air conditioners cool the air, they also remove moisture from the indoor environment. Using them consistently in hot and humid weather can help keep humidity levels in check. Maintain efficient operation by cleaning or replacing the filters regularly and ensure adequate amount of refrigerant levels at all times.
Heating
During winter months, adjust your heating system accordingly to keep humidity levels in check as cold air holds less moisture. Maintain a comfortable temperature and avoid overheating as it can lead to very dry air, causing discomfort and issues like dry skin and respiratory problems.
Managing moisture sources
Regularly check pipes, faucets and other plumbing appliances for leaks and address promptly as even the smallest leaks can significantly increase indoor humidity. Also inspect basement walls and floors for leaks and make the necessary repairs to avoid hassles.
If you have indoor plants, avoid overwatering them and place a tray of water-absorbing material underneath the pots to catch excess water. Prevent moisture buildup by placing the plants in well-ventilated areas.
Preventing moisture buildup
Ensure proper insulation by using high-quality materials in walls, attics and basements to reduce condensation. They should be properly installed to prevent air leaks and maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Waterproof vulnerable areas like basements and crawl spaces by applying sealants to walls and floors. To manage the water flow and prevent water intrusion, consider using sump pumps in these spaces.
Drying clothes
Use a dryer to dry laundry and ensure that it is properly vented outside to expel moisture. If the weather is suitable, always prefer drying your clothes outside in fresh air and natural light to reduce the moisture content in the indoor air.
Steam reduction
While cooking, cover the pots to contain the steam and control the moisture being released into the air. Remove excess humidity by running an exhaust fan during and after cooking.
Take shorter and colder showers to reduce the amount of steam generated in the bathroom. Contain the humidity within the space by keeping the door shut and use an exhaust fan to vent it outside.
FAQs
What is the ideal humidity level that should be maintained indoors?
Anywhere between 30 ‐ 50% is considered to be a comfortable level of indoor humidity that keeps health risks and other damage at bay.
How do I measure the humidity levels in my home?
Humidity levels can be measured using a hygrometer. It is available in digital and analog forms at hardware stores or online.
What are the most effective ways to reduce indoor humidity?
Ensuring good ventilation, using dehumidifiers and air conditioners, promptly fixing leaks and investing in waterproofing are effective ways to keep humidity levels in check.
How do houseplants affect indoor humidity levels?
Plants release moisture into the air through transpiration so it is recommended to place them in well-ventilated areas to prevent excess humidity.
How can I control cooking and showering-related humidity?
Using exhaust fans and containing the humidity can significantly reduce the overall humidity levels in the space.
What should I do if I detect mould and mildew?
If you detect mould growth, clean the affected area immediately with water and bleach or a commercial mould remover, improve the ventilation of the area and fix any leaks that might be causing the growth.
How can I address humidity in basements and crawl spaces?
Waterproof the space thoroughly by applying sealants, install a sump pump if it is prone to flooding, ensure proper ventilation and install a dehumidifier and maintain gutters and downspouts to direct water away from the foundation.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
