How to Measure Humidity at Home in Three Steps

Need help controlling your home's humidity levels? Call Fast Air Repair at 352-290-7968.

Whether the humidity in your home is too high or too low, it can cause several problems. When you know how to measure humidity at home, you can implement steps to remedy the problem. 

Fast Air Repair is the number one heating and air conditioning company in Ocala, FL, so you can trust us for all your HVAC needs.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, humidity levels beyond 60% can harm the structure of your home, your belongings, and you. Here are three steps to identify high or low humidity.

1. Utilize Tools

The simplest way to consistently measure the humidity level within your home is with a hygrometer. It works like a thermometer, only instead of measuring the temperature, it measures the level of moisture in the air. Place a hygrometer in each room of your house to monitor low or high humidity levels throughout. 

If the hygrometer shows the humidity level climbed to 40% or more during the winter or more than 60% during the summer, the room has excess moisture. 

2. Do a Quick Experiment

A fun, kid-friendly way to detect high humidity is with the ice cube test. This experiment is best for bedrooms, the living room, or other rooms that are not typically humid. Conducting an ice cube test in a kitchen or bathroom could give an inaccurate result.

If you want to learn how to measure humidity at home using ice, follow these steps:

• Put several ice cubes and cool water into a glass container. It can be a drinking glass, a bowl, or anything else that holds water. 
• Place the ice water in the room you suspect has high humidity. 
• Wait at least five minutes, and then check the glass. 

If you find condensation on the outside of the glass, the room has a high humidity level. If there is no condensation present, the room has dry air.

3. Observe Conditions

You can use your observation skills to determine if you have a humidity control problem.

Condensation

During winter months, check your windows first thing in the morning and throughout the day. If you see condensation on the windows, the room has a high humidity level. If the condensation remains on the window throughout the day and does not evaporate, you may need to take measures to lower the humidity level.

Peeling Paint

Check the walls, ceiling, and window frames for any spots where the paint shows signs of damage. Any cracks, bubbles, or signs of peeling indicate high humidity. 

Signs of Mold

Mold lurks silently in unseen areas of the home. By the time you find mold, it could have grown into a full infestation far from the original source.

Check for signs of mold in dark, cool areas of your home, such as bathrooms, closets, and basements. Lift all blinds and check behind curtains for mold on your baseboards.

Allergens 

You may not realize it, but if your home is excessively dusty and you can’t stop sneezing, the humidity level could be high. Dust mites thrive in humid conditions, worsening your allergies and asthma symptoms.

Your Skin

Your skin could indicate low humidity in your home. If you have dry skin, no matter how often you apply lotion, the humidity level could be to blame. Low humidity draws out moisture that your body needs to keep your skin from becoming itchy and uncomfortable.

Maintaining an Ideal Humidity Level

You are well-equipped to identify high and low humidity levels in your home. There are several ways to achieve an appropriate humidity level within your home. If you are unable to maintain a safe humidity level on your own, call a professional.

If You Have Low Humidity

It is understandably easier to raise humidity than it is to lower it. 

Humidifiers

Humidifiers are inexpensive and work well with your hygrometer to regulate moisture content within the space. They can run as little or as much as you need to raise the humidity level.

If your entire home has chronic, dry levels of humidity, it may be wise to invest in a professionally installed humidifier that can treat your whole house. They can improve humidity levels during winter months and should not run during warm seasons.

Take Small Measures

If a humidifier is not in your budget, you can still take steps to increase humidity without spending extra money. When you emerge from a long, hot shower, open the bathroom door and let the steam migrate through your home. 

In the kitchen, you can let a pot of water simmer on low for a couple of hours. It is a great way to raise humidity levels. 

Houseplants

While not a quick fix, houseplants help humidify the air while boosting your mood and cleansing the air.

If You Have High Humidity

High humidity can be a little more tricky to regulate than low humidity, but it is possible. The measures you take to lower humidity are the opposite of the measures to raise humidity.

Utilize Ventilation Options

Turn on exhaust fans whenever possible. When you shower, using the exhaust fan in your bathroom will quickly escort steam outside your home and prevent mold. 

If the weather allows, open windows and let the fresh air balance the indoor humidity level. 

Keep bedroom doors open so air can circulate throughout instead of stagnating and creating humid conditions. 

Dehumidifier 

Just as a humidifier raises the humidity level, a dehumidifier reduces humidity in your home. Be sure to empty your dehumidifier at least once a day so it can continue working.

Cut Back on Houseplants

If you have a lot of houseplants, they could contribute to a high humidity level. Move some outside or cut back on the total number to help regulate humidity. 

When to Call a Professional

If you are unable to maintain a consistent humidity level in your home, a professional can help.

Our team at Fast Air Repair offers dehumidifier services in Ocala, FL. Call us at 352-290-7968 to schedule service and learn more about how to measure humidity at home.