7 Ways to Lower Humidity in Your Home

Humidity levels have been a big topic of discussion with our customers this summer. Any time there is high humidity with mild temperatures, homeowners can face unique challenges related to their indoor humidity.

Let’s explore ways to lower humidity in your home and the factors contributing to this issue and

How to Lower Humidity in Your Home

1. Ensure Proper HVAC Sizing
   Ensure your HVAC system is appropriately sized for your home (you can find out by scheduling a free estimate with a Yarbrough & Sons Comfort Advisor).
   
2. Use the “Circulate” Option
   Use the “circulate” option on your thermostat to run the fan periodically, but not constantly.
   
3. Maintain Moderate Indoor Temperatures
   Maintain moderate indoor temperatures to balance humidity.
   
4. Fix Plumbing Leaks Promptly
   Address any plumbing leaks promptly.
   
5. Manage Ground Moisture
   Be mindful of ground moisture and adjust lawn watering practices.
   
6. Seal Air Leaks
   Seal air leaks (around fixtures, receptacles, doors, and windows) to prevent moisture infiltration.
   
7. Ventilate Moisture Sources
   Properly ventilate areas with moisture sources (showers, cooking, laundry) to direct moist air outside.
   

What’s the Ideal Humidity Level for Your House?

The ideal level in your home should be between 45 to 55 percent humidity, though 60 percent is tolerable.

Why Lowering Your Thermostat Won’t Help Remove Humidity

Homeowners might be tempted to improve comfort by lowering their thermostat temperature; however, without proper latent heat removal, this approach will not be effective.

Latent heat removal is crucial for dehumidification. If your HVAC system doesn’t run long enough, it won’t effectively pull out this latent heat. As a result, reducing the indoor temperature (like setting it to 68°F) can actually increase humidity because no latent heat is being removed.

From the video:

“We have about two months out of the year where we have an issue of a low outdoor temperature but a high humidity. Most houses don’t have the runtime they need to pull out the latent heat.

If we reduce the temperature to 68°F, the indoor humidity can actually increase because we’re not removing any latent heat.

During those times, people try to drop their temperature; however, they’re fighting a losing battle since no latent heat is being pulled out, which is essential for reducing humidity.

Possible Reasons for High Humidity in Your Home:

• Oversized HVAC System
  When the air conditioner is running, it removes humidity from the air in your home. If your HVAC system is oversized, it cools your home too quickly, resulting in shorter run times. Shorter run times mean less time to dehumidify. A properly sized HVAC system allows for better dehumidification.
  
• Constant Fan Operation
  Running the fan on your HVAC system constantly can make your home feel less stuffy, but it also picks up moisture from the evaporator coil and drain pan, reintroducing it into your air. Avoid running your fan all the time. If the house feels stuffy, use the “circulate” option on your thermostat to run the fan for 20 minutes every hour.
  
• Low Indoor Temperature
  Warmer air can hold more moisture than cooler air, and is why humidity readouts are relative to your temperature. Keeping the temperature too low in your home can increase relative humidity. Maintain moderate indoor temperatures to balance humidity.
  
• Plumbing Leaks
  Leaking pipes in the floor, walls, or ceiling can increase moisture in the air and cause other issues. Fix leaks promptly with the help of a licensed professional and reassess the humidity levels in your home.
  
• High Ground Moisture
  Moisture from the ground can seep into your home. If water sits around your home or you water your lawn frequently, it can lead to higher indoor humidity. Alternatively, watering your lawn every other day and ensure proper drainage around your home.
• Climate Factors
  The climate where you live affects indoor humidity. In areas with higher humidity, moisture can enter your home through air leaks. Seal air leaks around light fixtures, electrical receptacles, floors, doors, and windows. Replace weather stripping, caulk around windows, and if you have a crawl space, put plastic down to prevent moisture from seeping through.
  
• Indoor Activities
  Activities like cooking, showering, and doing laundry add moisture to the air. Therefore by, ensuring proper ventilation for your dryer, range, and showers you direct moist air outside rather than into the attic.

About Yarbrough & Sons Heating, Cooling & Plumbing: Yarbrough & Sons has been serving Oklahoma City since 1988, providing top-notch home comfort solutions. With over 450 years of combined experience, our family-owned business is dedicated to quality, comfort, and caring for our community. Trust us for all your HVAC needs.