Do You Need a Humidifier, a Dehumidifier or Both

The amount of water vapor in the air is called humidity. Depending on how dry or damp the air is at any given time of year, you may require the assistance of a humidifier or dehumidifier.

Both devices maintain the humidity levels inside living spaces for optimal comfort. Humidity control is essential to keep the air healthy for inhabitants and safeguard the structure.

Humidifier Versus Dehumidifier

A humidifier increases air dampness by emitting vapor or steam. It is often used in dry winter months.

Humidifiers:

• Increase air moisture
• Help control allergies and congestion
• Prevent dry throat, lips, nose and skin

A dehumidifier eliminates excess dampness from the air. It is often used during warm and humid summer months.

Dehumidifiers:

• Decrease air moisture
• Prevent headaches by inhibiting mold and mildew growth
• Ease allergy symptoms by stopping the growth of triggers like mold, mildew, dust mites and bacteria

Humidifiers and dehumidifiers improve the air quality within a building.

Optimal Humidity Levels

A suitable humidity level is between 30-35% and 45-50%. Maintaining humidity levels within this range keeps you comfortable and safe from harm caused by excessive dryness or dampness. A humidifier adds moisture to air below 30% humidity, and a dehumidifier removes moisture from air above 50% humidity.

Consider using a combination of both a humidifier and dehumidifier to keep your home at a comfortable, safe humidity level year-round. Together, these devices can help protect you and your loved ones from air quality-related health issues, and your building from the damaging effects of humidity.

Measuring Humidity Levels

You can use a digital humidity reader (a hygrometer) to determine your home or office needs. However, you may want to have a licensed HVAC technician test the humidity level in your home, since air moisture can significantly impact your health and your property.

ClimateSmith’s HVAC professionals have years of expertise assessing and treating low and excessive humidity in new and existing houses. In addition, we can provide you with a humidifier, a full-home dehumidifier that works in conjunction with your heating and cooling system or a portable dehumidifier. So, contact us today to make an appointment with one of our HVAC experts.