How to Measure Humidity in Your Home
Keeping track of the relative humidity in your home is an important part of good home maintenance. Homes that have consistent high humidity are more likely to develop problems such as black mold, wet stains on walls, musty smells and recurring allergic reactions among inhabitants. On the other hand, low humidity produces nuisances such as chapped lips, dry skin, static, sparks, breathing problems and electrical problems. Measuring the relative humidity in your home is easy and only requires a device called a hygrometer. Adjusting the humidity in your home is also pretty easy, though you may have to shell out some cash. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
-
Instructions
-
1
Purchase a hygrometer if you don't already have one. There are two types of hygrometers: mechanical and electronic. Hygrometers are available at most hardware or home-improvement stores and are relatively inexpensive. Electronic hygrometers tend to be a little more expensive, but they may be more reliable depending on the model. Make sure that whatever hygrometer you purchase is properly calibrated.
-
2
Place the hygrometer in an area of the home you suspect has particularly high or low humidity, a room where the family spends a lot of time, or anywhere else you would like to measure humidity. Set the hygrometer up and leave it for a couple of hours so you can take an accurate reading.
-
-
3
Decide whether the humidity levels are appropriate or not. This really depends on the season, the outside climate and the time of year. The recommended relative humidity for an outside temperature of 20 degrees Fahrenheit or higher is between 35 percent and 40 percent. If the outside temperature is 0 degrees Fahrenheit, the ideal relative humidity would be lower, around 25 percent.
-
4
Take steps to regulate the humidity levels in your home. This may include purchasing an extra air conditioner, exhaust fan or humidifier depending on the conditions. According to Blueflame.org, natural gas whole-house dehumidifiers that automatically control humidity levels and reduce mildew are available at hardware and home-improvement stores.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Be sure to calibrate your hygrometer at least once a year. This will ensure that it measures the relative humidity accurately.
Adjust humidity levels right away if they are dangerously high or low. These conditions can lead to serious long-term health problems.
