Most people don't think about humidity levels until they start to feel uncomfortable. Whether it's the humidity making your skin feel clammy in summer or your nose starting to itch in winter, humidity is always there, lurking in the background. What is humidity, and why do we care about the humidity level in our homes?

In this article, we'll discuss what humidity is, what the ideal humidity should be in a home, and some recommended tools to measure it.

What is Humidity?

Humidity is a measure of the amount of water vapor in the air. The higher the humidity, the more moisture there is in the air. High humidity can be uncomfortable, because it can make you feel hot and sticky. It can also damage your belongings, by causing them to mildew or mold. That's why it's important to maintain a healthy humidity level in your home.

Absolute Humidity and Relative Humidity

Absolute humidity and relative humidity are the two primary types of humidity. Absolute humidity refers to the actual amount of water in the air, while relative humidity refers to how much moisture that air can contain relative to temperature and pressure.

The temperature determines the amount of water vapor an air can contain. As the temperature rises, so does the relative humidity, with the reverse being true - temperature dropping will result in lower relative humidity. The absolute humidity will remain constant, no matter the temperature in the space.

Problems That Homeowners Face with High and Low Humidity

The recommended humidity level in a house should be between 30 and 50 percent, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

  • Anything below 30 percent is too dry and can cause problems such as static electricity, nose bleeds, and itchy skin.
  • Above 60% encourages mold, bacteria, mildew and dust mites to thrive, possibly causing respiratory issues, and in some cases can cause damage to furniture, paint, flooring or wallpaper.

In extreme cases, high humidity levels can lead to structural damage, as wood rot sets in. The ideal humidity level for a house changes with the seasons. In the winter, when furnace-heated air is dry, aim for a level between 30 and 40 percent. During the spring and summer, when humid air from the outdoors comes inside, keep the level below 50 percent.

If the level is too low, use a humidifier; if it’s too high, use an air conditioner or dehumidifier. Don’t just set it and forget it—check the humidifier daily to make sure it’s working properly, and empty the dehumidifier often so it doesn’t overflow. 

Humidity levels change throughout the day, as temperature and weather conditions outside change, so checking multiple times per day is ideal.

How to Manage Humidity in the Summer and Winter Months

In the summer, fans and air conditioners can help keep the air inside your home cool and dry. It is important to ensure your home is well-ventilated in order to allow air circulation. In the winter, space heaters and humidifiers can help raise the humidity level in your home. It is also important to open cabinets and doors periodically to allow air circulation. By taking these simple steps, you can maintain a comfortable humidity level in your home all year long.

How to Measure Humidity in Your Home

Here are three easy ways to measure the humidity in your home.

One way to measure humidity is with a hygrometer. Hygrometers are available at most hardware stores, and they're relatively simple to use. Just place the device in an area of your home that you'd like to measure, and wait for the reading to stabilize. Once it does, you'll have an accurate measurement of the humidity level in that particular room or area.

Another way to measure humidity is with an indoor-outdoor thermometer. These devices measure both temperature and humidity, so they're a great option if you want to keep track of both metrics simultaneously. Place the indoor-outdoor thermometer in an area of your home that you'd like to monitor, and check the readings regularly to get an idea of the current conditions.

Finally, some moisture meters have integrated humidity level readers. This is handy, since it is also a must have tool to prevent water damage from humidity, leaks and flooding.

6 Moisture-Humidity Measuring Tools 

Moisture Meters

A moisture meter is a handy tool that can help you monitor the humidity level in your home. By knowing the relative humidity, you can ensure your home is comfortable and mold-free. Most moisture meters will have a digital display that shows the current humidity level, as well as acceptable levels. Some more sophisticated models may also include an alarm that sounds when the humidity level gets too high or too low. 

1. Pin/Pinless Deep Sensing Moisture Meter with Integrated Humidity Sensor

The #MMH800 Pin/Pinless Deep Sensing Moisture Meter uses a spherical sensor to quickly detect leaks and measure the moisture content of whatever you're working with. Additionally, the meter has an integrated humidity sensor for accurate analysis of moisture conditions..

2. 9-in-1 Temperature-Humidity Meter with Pin/Pinless Moisture Meter

The #RHMG650 is ideal for water damage restoration contractors, facilities maintenance professionals, and HVAC system installers/technicians because of its versatility.

3. Wireless Temperature Humidity Meter with Remote Sensor

The EMR964HG Wireless Temperature Humidity Sensor is ideal for monitoring the conditions of any room from a distance. Simply install the wireless sensor in any room, space, or location, then connect the digital display screen to your computer and view temperature and humidity readings up to 90 feet away. Its large display allows users to get detailed readings while still being easy on the eyes. This sensor offers min and max readings, as well as Fahrenheit/Celsius switching functionality.

General Tools Has an Extensive Selection of Digital Tools for a Variety of Projects

Looking for a humidity measuring tool that is both accurate and easy to use? Look no further than General Tools Moisture Meters! Our moisture meters are reliable and affordable, making them the perfect choice for homeowners who want to monitor the humidity levels in their home. 

Our mission is to enable our users to work smarter, measure better, and be more productive. Contact us today to discover how we can help you select the best tools for your projects.