High humidity is common in Florida, regardless of the time of year. Some data shows that the average humidity level in the state of Florida is a whopping 85.8 percent, which is quite a doozy.
Using the right type of humidity control can make all the difference in your home, even during the winter since it lessens the load on your HVAC system.
Check out this list of ways you can keep the humidity levels in your Fort Myers, FL home under control.
Start with Measurements
Before we discuss ways to practice humidity control in your home, it’s a good idea to gauge just how high your home’s indoor humidity is. Most modern digital thermostats will indicate this level somewhere on the main panel. An ideal level of humidity in most homes is somewhere between 40 and 50 percent.
If the humidity isn’t showing on the thermostat, you might be able to find it within the smart thermostat app. However, if you don’t have a fancy modern digital thermostat, there are other ways to measure it, too.
A digital hydrometer can show you the levels inside your home. These devices are affordable and easy to use. You can also get an accurate reading by scheduling an annual HVAC system inspection.
Humidity Control: Use Exhaust Fans
Most kitchens have a hood vent that rests above the oven. If you have one of these, keep it running whenever you cook to practice smart humidity control.
Other rooms in the home that utilize exhaust fans typically include the bathroom, and in some cases, the basement or a utility room. Try to run these fans as often as possible, especially in bathrooms whenever you bathe or shower.
The more you use these fans, the more you’ll be able to keep humidity levels in check. When using these fans, make sure that the indoor relative humidity is higher than the outside. Otherwise, using the fans may backfire and make indoor levels higher instead of lower.
Consider a Whole Home Dehumidifier
A whole-home dehumidifier is designed to remove excess humidity from the indoor air of the home. This unit uses a special refrigerant cycle which takes the humidity from the air and drains it to the outside.
These helpful systems can be connected with heating and AC systems, or you can find them as standalone models. You’ll want to make sure you have a dedicated 120 or 140-volt circuit, and a drain line will need to be run to your home’s exterior.
The cost for these units varies but typically ranges between one and three thousand dollars. Many homeowners find that they can be worth it, especially if indoor humidity levels are becoming unbearable year-round.
Check Your Air Ducts
Clogged or dirty air ducts aren’t just the enemy of energy efficiency; they also contribute to high humidity levels. Look at your current AC duct design and make sure it’s set up for a good, constant airflow.
An air duct cleaning might be in order if you notice the humidity levels are getting too high. Not only will this help you save energy, but it also helps to remove excess dust and other particles from the air. Clean ducts usually result in fewer allergic reactions and respiratory symptoms, which can be particularly bad during the winter season.
All home heating and AC systems require clean, debris-free air ducts to run smoothly. This will ensure that you save energy in the best possible way while also keeping the indoor air clean and with a lot less humidity overall.
It’s also a good idea to make sure that you have a clean air filter. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations, and change your HVAC filter every 30, 60, or 90 days to keep the system clean and running smoothly.
Seal Leaks and Insulate Your Home
One way to practice good humidity control is to make sure you have no gaps or cracks in windows and doors. These small air leaks can make a huge difference in your home’s humidity levels and your system’s energy efficiency.
Replace damaged or worn-out door and window seals. Re-caulk around windows to help prevent cold drafts from getting inside.
Proper insulation can also be a smart way to keep your home warm along with lower humidity. Without good insulation, your home will experience significant heat loss that can lead to much higher energy bills.
Check to ensure that your walls, ceilings, floors, and attic all have good insulation and that it’s in good condition. You’ll notice a much warmer home without drafts and without unbearable humidity.
Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats give you much more control over the indoor air temperature and humidity in your home. Use this device to set an optimum humidity level, so that it alerts you whenever it gets too high (or too low). Once the levels get above or below your pre-set numbers, you’ll get an alert so you can take steps to correct the issue.
You can also use smart thermostats to program your HVAC system and turn it on or off as needed. It’s not only a great way to control humidity levels, but it can also keep your system running more optimally. You can even schedule your system to turn on and off when you’re at work or on vacation based on your unique preferences and needs.
Most smart thermostats include an app so you can control everything remotely. They’re an affordable way to get more control over your home’s temperature, humidity, and more at the touch of a button. These devices also offer other perks like sending you an alert when your filter needs to be changed.
Keep Your Home Comfortable this Winter
Remember these tips to help you practice better humidity control in your Fort Myers, FL home. With the right equipment, clean air ducts, and some simple tactics like using exhaust fans, you can keep your home comfortable all winter long.
If you need help with your home’s humidity or HVAC system, be sure to contact the pros at Ellsworth Heating and Cooling in Fort Meyers, Florida today!