The ideal relative humidity range for a home is generally considered to be between 30% and 60%. This range helps maintain comfort and prevent issues like mold growth, dust mites, static, and dry skin. While the 40-60% range is often cited as ideal, some sources also recommend keeping humidity below 50% to discourage mold. Safe to say: 30-50% is what we recommend.
Home Integrity:
- 30% – 60% Range:
Maintaining humidity within this range is beneficial for both human health and the structural integrity of the home. This range can also protect valuable woods in the home like pianos, moulding, hardwood floors, and artwork and sculptures.
- Mold Prevention:
Humidity levels above 60% can lead to mold growth, which can be a health hazard and cause damage to the home.
- Comfort:
Excessively dry or humid air can cause discomfort, with low humidity potentially leading to dry skin, irritated respiratory passages, and static electricity. High humidity can make the air feel muggy and cause discomfort. Keep within the recommended levels and enjoy maximum comfort.
- Health Considerations:
Proper humidity levels can help reduce the spread of airborne pollutants like allergens, viruses, and bacteria.
- Seasonal Adjustments:
Humidity levels may need to be adjusted seasonally. For example, some experts suggest keeping humidity lower (30-45%) in the summer and slightly higher (30-60%) in the winter.
- Monitoring:
Installing a humidification system (one that measures and maintains humidity levels) can help monitor and adjust humidity in the home, as needed. Humidification increases humidity in dry environments, while dehumidification removes excess moisture from humid environments. Both are needed to maintain the integrity of the home.
Alaskan Air Conditioning offers several humidification systems at that can help you maintain the integrity of your home and its contents. Call us for a consultation.