Home humidity problems degrade indoor air quality, increase energy bills, and may actually damage your home and possessions. High indoor humidity also encourages the growth and spread of many microorganisms that affect health and comfort. Look for the following signs to determine if you have a home humidity problem.

Mold and Mildew

High indoor humidity invites mold and mildew development. Black, green, and pink spots on walls and ceilings are sure indicators you have a home humidity problem. Even common mold found in bathrooms should be mitigated.

Window Condensation

Window condensation occurs when warm and humid indoor air comes into contact with a cooler surface, which is often your windows. Seemingly harmless window condensation can actually cause damage to window frames and walls.

High Cooling Bills

Overly humid indoor air is sticky and uncomfortable. It also makes the air feel warmer than the actual temperature. If you find that you’re lowering the thermostat beyond 75 degrees to stay cool, your indoor humidity and energy bills may be too high.

Sticky Doors and Windows

The wood materials of doors and window frames absorb moisture when indoor humidity levels are too high. This causes the wood to swell, which often results in sticky doors and windows.

Mitigating Home Humidity Problems

Completely mitigating home humidity problems requires a combination of indoor air quality strategies, leak detection, and modifying habits. Consider the following tips:

• Ventilation: Without proper ventilation, humidity and contaminants accumulate inside your home. If your home is tightly sealed for better efficiency, your home humidity problem is only going to be worse. Whole-home energy-recovery ventilators use a heat-exchange core that allows you to ventilate your home in any weather without incurring exorbitant cooling or heating bills.
• Dehumidifiers: Whole-home dehumidifiers attach to the air ducts and remove excessive moisture from return airflow.
• Cooking, bathing, and cleaning: Try to limit cooking, bathing, housecleaning, and clothes washing to early morning or late evening hours. This also reduces heat gain and cooling bills.

If you suspect you have a home humidity problem in your Peachtree City home, please contact Powers Heating & Air for an evaluation.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Peachtree City, Georgia and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

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