How Humidity Impacts Your Health

When you live in Tallahassee, Florida, you become accustomed to high humidity levels throughout much of the year. However, many residents don’t realize how humidity can impact more than just your comfort. Too much or too little humidity impacts your health, causing problems and physical symptoms.

Indoor Humidity Impacts Your Health

When we refer to humidity and its impact on your health, we’re referring to the levels within your home. Excess humidity outdoors may feel uncomfortable, but it won’t cause the same types of issues. It’s important to keep the humidity level in your home between 25 and 55 percent.

How High Humidity Impacts Your Health

If the humidity level in your home rises above 55 percent, several issues can occur. The first is an increased risk of mold growth, which can be harmful to your health.

Mold spores in the air deteriorate indoor air quality and often cause symptoms among those who suffer from allergies. You might experience a sore throat, congestion and headaches.

It’s hard to know for sure if you have mold growing in your home, because it usually grows in hidden and dark spaces. You’ll need to check crawl spaces, between walls and in the attic to know for sure.

Another problem that comes from high humidity is a higher concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the air. Prolonged exposure to VOCs can damage the nervous system or lead to other conditions, especially in babies and children. Filters in your home can remove VOCs from the air, but excess humidity reduces the performance of most carbon-based filters.

How Low Humidity Impacts Your Health

When the humidity drops below 25 percent, you may notice that your skin feels flaky, dry, and tight, or that it’s difficult to breathe. Low humidity is rare in this area, since the outdoor humidity levels are high. If you use a dehumidifier to keep moisture under control, you might drop the levels too low.

At Central Heating Consultants, we can help you manage indoor humidity and keep your heating and cooling system running smoothly. Contact us at 850-270-4352 for exceptional services and solutions.

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