The humidity levels in Charlotte, North Carolina, are high throughout much of the spring, summer and fall. Managing comfort when it’s humid outside is tough, but the excess moisture can also cause issues with your HVAC system. Keeping the humidity under control in your home can improve efficiency and reduce illness in your family.
Mold Growth
One of the most concerning problems that can occur in your home as a result of high humidity is mold growth. Mold spores start growing within hours of moisture exposure, and the presence of mold can reduce the indoor air quality, leading to health concerns like breathing problems and allergic reactions.
It’s not easy to know if you have mold growing in your home, since it tends to stay in dark, undisturbed areas like HVAC ducts, beneath floors, and behind walls. If you notice any allergic symptoms like congestion, sore throats, and headaches that tend to disappear when you leave, you could have mold in your home. By keeping your humidity levels under control, you’ll reduce the risk of mold growth.
Discomfort
When you walk into an area with high humidity, you can immediately tell the difference. The hot, muggy air feels thick and unpleasant, so trying to fall asleep in a humid bedroom poses a challenge.
Staying comfortable in your home when the humidity levels are too high is nearly impossible. Your central air conditioner offers humidity control, so keeping it running when the moisture levels are high will improve the comfort level in your space.
You can also use a dehumidifier during the spring and fall to reduce the moisture in the air. Be cautious when running this unit, as too little moisture can also cause health problems like dry, itchy skin and increase cold symptoms. The optimal moisture level in a home is 30 to 60 percent.
To you want to maximize your HVAC system’s efficiency? Schedule an HVAC maintenance service by calling Bradham Brothers, Inc. Heating & Air Conditioning at (704) 912-1456.
Image provided by Shutterstock
