Most people associate home comfort with pleasant temperatures. But did you know that the humidity level in your home can also affect your sense of comfort? Some people prefer higher humidity, while others prefer lower humidity. Finding the right balance can be difficult, but the benefits are well worth it.

The amount of moisture vapor in the surrounding air is used to calculate humidity. The Mayo Clinic recommends a humidity range of 30% to 50%. Too little or too much can have an impact on your indoor air quality, your health, and even your home if mold grows or wood flooring cracks.

A humidifier or dehumidifier is one of the most simple ways to control the humidity in your home. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, while a dehumidifier removes it. Because of the dry winter air and humid summers in New Jersey, homeowners can benefit from both.

Learn more about the various types of humidifiers and how they can benefit your home.

Humidifier Types
HVAC humidity control is primarily managed by humidity control systems. Humidifiers and dehumidifiers are two types of equipment.

Humidifier
A good humidifier generates moisture for the surrounding air to absorb and circulate. Many systems generate moisture vapor by using a reservoir of water. They are available for single rooms or the entire house. Whole-house humidifiers are the best because they connect to your HVAC system and distribute humidity more evenly.

Dehumidifier
Dehumidifiers do the opposite. Excess moisture in the air is drawn into the dehumidifier. The reservoir in these systems stores the condensed vapor. They are also available in single-room and whole-home models. Some systems are installed in the basement or crawl spaces beneath the house.

Again, a whole-house humidifier is the best solution because it can treat the air throughout your home. It works with your HVAC system to extract moisture from the air and pipe it away through a drainage system.

Why Is a Whole-House Dehumidifier Better Than a Portable Dehumidifier?
A whole-home dehumidifier is an excellent way to reduce the humidity in your home during the summer. Smaller units are limited to single rooms or your basement. Another disadvantage is the dedicated reservoir. This tank must be emptied on a regular basis in order to function properly.

In the winter, a whole-home humidifier protects wood furniture and flooring, as well as your sense of comfort. Air with the proper moisture level may also keep you from getting sick as frequently during the winter.

When the humidity level in your home is just right, it can make you feel more comfortable at a lower, more energy-efficient temperature. This can help you save money on your heating and cooling bills.

A whole-home system installation will cost between $1,500 and $2,800, according to HomeAdvisor. Your total cost will vary depending on the size of your home and the model you select.

5 Signs Your Home’s Humidity Is Too High and How to Control It
In general, high humidity is more common. It’s noticeable in warmer weather and can make staying comfortable surprisingly difficult. If your home has high humidity, a number of issues may arise. Mold and mildew can thrive in high humidity. It can make your skin feel clammy or sticky.

Here are some indicators that the humidity in your home is too high.

1. Exacerbated Allergies or Asthma
High humidity can aggravate breathing problems such as allergies or asthma. This is because mold and mildew growth can cause symptoms.

2. Discomfort
When there is an abundance of moisture in the air, your body will have a more difficult time cooling down. This can have an impact on your comfort and even your ability to sleep.

3. Rotting or warping of wood
Moisture can wreak havoc on anything made of wood in your home. This includes furniture, cabinets, and flooring. Over time, the vapor seeps into the wood, causing warping and fungus-related rot. Repairing wood rot damage can be costly and time-consuming.

4. Mold
If the humidity in your home is out of control and you frequently smell a musty odor, you may be dealing with mold. It thrives in high humidity and can be harmful to your health. Furthermore, if it spreads throughout your home, it can be expensive to remove.

5. Condensation on Windows and Walls
It’s normal to see some condensation on windows during the summer, especially in the morning when there’s a big difference between indoor and outdoor humidity levels. However, persistent condensation on windows and walls is concerning because it can rot wood frames and promote mold growth.

How to Deal with High Humidity
The recommended humidity range is 30% to 50%. While very useful, a temperature and humidity controller is not your only option.

Extra insulation can help to reduce the amount of humidity that seeps in from outside.
Air circulation keeps indoor air from becoming stagnant. Moving air dries out more quickly. This can be accomplished with a ceiling fan or a ventilation system that brings in fresh air from outside.
Smart thermostat technology can be combined with a dehumidifier or humidifier, allowing you to monitor and adjust the humidity levels in your home.

CBJ Plumbers installs dehumidifiers and humidifiers. These whole-house systems include convenient features such as remote control and automatic humidity sensors. Controlling the humidity in your home will be quick and simple.

Our professional technicians are happy to assist you in locating the humidity control solutions that are best for you. Contact us if you have any questions about the products and services we offer. We can even provide a free estimate for any projects you are considering. Call (201) 977-6775 today to make an appointment with CBJ Plumbers.