Why is My House Humidity So High?
Canada experiences its own set of climate-related challenges. From the hot summer months to the cold winter months, Canadians are known to face extreme weather conditions. One problem that can be pretty perplexing is the indoor moisture levels.
Indoor air humidity has been an issue across the globe. Since there is an 80% possibility that the global temperature will climb by 1.5 degrees Celsius, this can also increase indoor moisture levels as well.
It’s important to find out the reasons house humidity is so high to maintain a relaxing indoor environment. Let’s find out more about this from this content.
Understanding Humidity: Definition of Humidity
Humidity is known as the amount of water vapor found in the air. This stands out as an important aspect of deciding how much discomfort or comfort a person feels in their indoor setting. You can measure humidity in two different ways: absolute humidity and relative humidity. Here is a small overview of both of them:
Relative Humidity
This is known as the “percentage” of moisture found in the air compared to the maximum level of moisture the air has at a certain temperature. This particular measurement depends heavily on the temperature.
Relative humidity is what people normally refer to when they want to know the reasons house humidity is so high because it has a massive impact on your comfort and also leads to mold growth and other problems.
Absolute Humidity
This is known as the total amount of moisture found in a specific volume of air. The absolute humidity is estimated in grams per cubic meter. This is a simple way to measure moisture levels present in the air.
Ideal Indoor Humidity Levels
It’s extremely crucial to effectively maintain indoor humidity levels to preserve the home, health, and comfort. The best indoor humidity ranges between 30% to 50%. However, the humidity levels can differ greatly based on the changing weather conditions, especially in a nation like Canada.
The country experiences temperature fluctuation throughout the entire year. During the winter, it is better to keep indoor moisture around 30%. Lower humidity levels can lead to static electricity, irritation in the respiratory passage and dry skin.
In summer, you should keep the indoor moisture levels below 50%. Higher indoor humidity can cause mould growth and dust mites.
Reasons Why Your Home Has High Humidity
Here, in this section, you will learn about the reasons house humidity so high in detail:
Cause 1: Weather and Location
The diverse climate zones of Canada play a massive part in the indoor moisture levels. Coastal locations, such as the Maritimes and British Columbia, have higher humidity levels because of the large water bodies. On the other hand, the Interior Regions and Pairies have arid conditions, but homeowners will still get to experience higher moisture levels, specifically during the summers.
Cause 2: Changes in the Seasons
The seasonal changes in Canada have a tremendous influence on moisture levels. The warm air during the summer can hold in plenty of moisture, which can increase the indoor humidity. You can easily witness this in Quebec and Southern Ontario, which has humid and hot summers.
Cause 3: Insufficient Ventilation
In every Canadian home, poor ventilation is one of the primary reasons house humidity so high. Many of the residences are constructed to be energy-efficient, and that can trap the moisture inside. It’s important to make sure that the house has a proper ventilation system in areas like the kitchen, washroom, and basement. You can resolve this problem by regularly opening the windows and using exhaust fans.
Cause 4: Incorrect Sealing and Insulation
Inadequate sealing and insulation can cause moisture ingress, especially in older residences. Canadian regions with different temperature variations, like the Okanagan Valley or the Greater Toronto Area, have homes that have improper windows and insulated walls. This enables the moist and warm air to enter indoors during the summers and cold air during the winters. Both of them increase the indoor moisture levels.
Cause 5: Using Appliances
There are some appliances/devices that can increase indoor humidity levels significantly. Appliances such as showers, dryers, and even dishwashers can discharge a lot of moisture into the indoor air. You must make sure that all these appliances are vented outside, and you can place a humidifier indoors to maintain the moisture levels.
Effects of Humidity on Health and Home
When the indoor moisture levels are pretty high, it can lead to the following problems:
Health Implications
- Respiratory Problems: Too much moisture can worsen asthma and various other respiratory issues.
- Allergies: High levels of humidity can lead to mold and dust mites. These things can cause allergic reactions to the homeowners.
- Mould-Related Conditions: Mould spores can lead to numerous health issues, such as worsened allergies and asthma. It can even cause respiratory infections.
Impact on Your Home
The indoor humidity levels can also cause multiple issues in your residential property:
- Mold Growth: Mould will grow in all the wet sections of the house. You will normally find them in poorly ventilated locations and basements.
- Structural Damage: Too much moisture will make the home’s wooden structures weaker, peel off the paint and even damage the drywall.
- Decreased Energy Efficiency: When the humidity levels are higher, the HVAC unit will work a lot harder so that it can cool the indoor air. This can lead to high energy consumption.
Specific Examples Relevant to Canadian Homes
In Canada, homes that have a basement will have a higher indoor moisture level. Improper sealing and insulation can cause moisture ingress, especially during the monsoons. Basements that have cooler temperatures will experience mold growth and condensation. Insufficient insulation in the home’s attic can cause ice dams during the winters, which will, in return, increase indoor moisture levels and cause leaks.
Identifying and Measuring Humidity Levels
Some of the signs of high indoor humidity are listed below. Take a look!
- Condensation visible on the windows
- Musty odor
- Damp spots on the ceilings or the walls
How to Measure House Humidity
- Using Hygrometers: The hygrometers will measure the RH inside a house. The hygrometers should be placed in different sections of the house to ensure a proper understanding of the moisture levels inside the house.
- Smart Home Devices: You will come across many modern-day smart devices, such as humidity sensors, which will provide alerts and information on indoor humidity levels.
Recommended Humidity Levels for Different Seasons in Canada
- Winters: Try to maintain the humidity levels between 30% and 40% to increase the comfort level and stop window condensation.
- Summers: Keep the indoor moisture levels between 40% and 50% to stop mould from growing and maintain comfort.
Solutions to Manage and Reduce Humidity
Fix 1: Improve Ventilation
- Use Exhaust Fans: Install the exhaust fans in the washroom and kitchens to release all the moisture-laden air.
- Open Windows: If the weather is good, you should open the windows and let the fresh outdoor air circulate the entire house.
- Install Ventilation Systems: Option for a ventilation system for the entire residence to enhance the indoor air.
Fix 2: Use of Dehumidifiers
The dehumidifiers function by pulling in the moist air, which causes the moisture to be collected and condensed. To use the dehumidifiers correctly, do the following:
- Find the Correct Size: Pick the correct dehumidifier so that it matches the area where you want to dehumidify.
- Position Properly: You must put the dehumidifier correctly in the dampest section of the house.
- Periodic Maintenance: It’s important to clean the filter and empty the water reservoir periodically.
Fix 3: Air Conditioners
Using an AC unit will greatly lessen indoor humidity. It will cool the indoor air, which will lessen the moisture levels. The best ways you can use the cooling system are by:
- Regular Servicing: Make sure the AC is completely clean and operating well.
- Proper Sizing: Opt for an AC system that is ideal for your home. That way, you can prevent inefficiency.
Fix 4: Weatherproofing
- Seal Outdoor Cracks: Examine and seal up all the cracks that you find in the outdoor foundation and walls.
- Use Weather Stripping: Use the weather stripping on the doors and windows. It will stop the moisture from getting indoors.
Conclusion
In every Canadian home, high moisture levels can cause multiple structural and health problems. However, with accurate management and understanding, you can keep the indoor environment healthy and comfortable.
Detecting all the signs of high moisture levels, using measurement tools, and opting for effective solutions will greatly help you control and lessen indoor humidity. This will certainly make sure that your residence stays efficient and safe during the whole year.
