High humidity is a common problem that plagues several regions, especially in a tropical country like India. It can often be a menace and cause problems, even up to the extent of requiring control measures. If you reside in a region with naturally high humidity, it becomes even more important to keep the levels in check to ensure optimum comfort and convenience. Ideal indoor humidity levels should range between 50 – 60%. Therefore, a lot of people prefer installing a dehumidifier in their homes to control humidity levels. So if you are wondering whether you should get one or not, let us help you take the right call. Here are some telltale signs of high indoor humidity whose presence might suggest the need for a dehumidifier for your space.
See also: How to keep indoor humidity levels in check?
Excess moisture
High humidity is a phenomenon caused by excessive moisture content in the air. If your indoor humidity consistently exceeds the ideal levels, the air can feel sticky or muggy even under moderate temperatures. Check for condensation on windows, especially during mornings. If you detect visible water droplets on glass surfaces regularly, it is an indication that your home’s air can’t hold any more moisture. Additionally, persistent dampness on countertops, floors, furniture and other spaces without an obvious water source in the vicinity may point to an overly humid environment.
Mould or mildew growth
Damp areas provide the ideal environment for mould and mildew to thrive. Small, dark green or black spots on bathroom tiles, in the corners of walls, under sinks, or in basements can be mould growth. These signs are generally accompanied by a musty, earthy odour that tends to linger even after clearing the visible growth, as spores have the ability to embed themselves in porous materials like wood or drywall. Dehumidifiers can provide a long-term solution to this problem by removing moisture from the air and not allowing mould to thrive, thereby doing away with the need for frequent cleaning of the growth.
Dust mites and allergies
Dust mites thrive in high humidity and can worsen allergy symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes and nasal congestion. If you suffer from respiratory issues like asthma, and feel constant discomfort at home as a result, it could be due to allergens and excess moisture. This steep increase in the growth of irritants and allergens can be controlled by installing a dehumidifier and keeping the moisture levels in check.
Structural issues
If your home has wooden floors, they can often absorb excess moisture, causing warping, swelling or cracking. Similarly, paint or wallpaper may start to peel, bubble or discolour, especially in areas like bathrooms, kitchen or basements. Crumbling plaster or damp walls can also occur in the case of excessive moisture infiltrating building materials. These structural issues can cause serious damage in the long run if not treated and prevented from recurring.
Water damage
Water stains in the form of dark patches on walls and ceilings are the most common signs of high humidity or leaks. This situation gets exacerbated in the case of leaks or flooding, leading to a persistent damp environment that provides the ideal conditions for mould growth and moisture-related structural problems. Along with addressing the specific cause of the problem, installing a dehumidifier can minimise its effects significantly.
Poor air quality
Humid air, especially in a closed area, feels heavy and oppressive, making spaces uncomfortable even under mild temperatures. Moreover, lingering odours from cooking, pets or cleaning get harder to get rid of due to excess moisture trapping the particles. While dehumidifiers do not actively cleanse the air by removing pollutants and odour-causing particles, it can considerably facilitate the process by clearing the air off excess moisture.
Pest problems
Common pests like cockroaches, silverfish and termites prefer a damp environment and excessive moisture is a key agent in attracting pest menace. An increase in pest activity, especially in basements, crawl spaces and under sinks can be directly related to high humidity. While you get rid of the pests by taking appropriate measures, a dehumidifier can facilitate mitigation in the long run by eliminating the root cause of the problem.
Damp clothing or fabrics
If you notice a slightly damp feel in clothes stored in closets, curtains or upholstery on touching, even if the room is not wet, it can be an effect of high humidity. This is generally accompanied by a musty odour, suggesting they have absorbed moisture from the surrounding air. Such problems will take care of themselves as soon as the humidity levels return to normal, which can be done with the help of a dehumidifier.
Cold or damp feeling in rooms
Even with proper heating, excessive moisture can cause rooms on lower floors and basements to feel uncomfortably damp. This feeling can linger on and make the space feel uninviting. Eliminate the agent causing the dampness with the help of a dehumidifier and ensure optimal comfort.
Rust or corrosion
High humidity accelerates the oxidation process, causing rust to form on metal items like tools, pipes, door hinges or metal components of electrical appliances. Rust spots or stains appearing on metal surfaces indoors are a clear indicator of excessive moisture in the air and must be addressed to ensure proper functioning of the items affected by it.
FAQs
How do I know if mould or mildew is caused by high humidity?
Mould or mildew caused by high humidity appear as black or green patches on walls, ceilings or window sills along with a musty odour, especially in poorly ventilated areas.
Can a dehumidifier help with allergies?
Dehumidifiers lower indoor moisture levels and reduce allergens like dust mites, mould spores and mildew that might cause allergy symptoms and trigger asthma.
How can I tell if condensation on windows is a sign of high humidity?
Condensation on windows indicates that the indoor air is holding more moisture than its capacity, resulting in some of it leaking on glass surfaces, often dripping or forming pools.
Can high humidity damage my furniture and walls?
Moisture causes wood to warp and swell and paint and wallpapers to peel, bubble or crack, thereby affecting furniture and walls.
Is musty odour always related to humidity problems?
Musty smells are generally caused by mould or mildew, which thrive in damp environments. If it persists even after clearing the growth, it might indicate issues with indoor humidity levels.
What rooms are most likely to need a dehumidifier?
Rooms with poor ventilation like basements, bathrooms, laundry rooms, kitchens and crawl spaces can benefit from a dehumidifier.
| 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 |
