Published on February 14th, 2023
Are you worried about mold growth in your home? It’s a real concern for many homeowners. After all, mold is unsightly and can also lead to health problems if left unchecked. Fortunately, there’s one key factor that has a direct effect on the probability of mold growth: humidity level.
Experts and professionals suggest keeping your home at the correct humidity level to prevent mold growth before it becomes an issue.
Understanding how the humidity level impacts your risk for potential future issues with mold can help you make wise choices when it comes to preventing its growth from occurring in your home – and that’s what this blog post will delve into!
If you want an HVAC professional to help you assess the humidity levels in your home, contact Anderson Air.
Read below for more information on the right humidity level to stop mold growth, and some top tips on managing moisture levels to keep mold away.
What Humidity Stops Mold Growth?
Mold thrives in humid environments, so it’s important to keep humidity levels in your home at or below 60%. In order to keep your home free from mold and other damaging effects associated with elevated humidity levels, it is important to maintain the humidity level within a safe range.
Humidity levels of 60% and below are largely considered safe for a healthy environment. On the other hand, when humidity levels rise above the recommended level, homeowners should take steps to lower those levels in order to protect their property from damage and degradation from mold.
How To Measure Humidity Levels In Your Home
Accurate humidity measurements are key for keeping a comfortable living environment, and the best way to track those levels is to measure them directly in the home.
One of the easiest ways to get exact readings is to invest in a hygrometer. This device measures relative humidity levels and can display an accurate reading on its digital interface. You may already have some type of thermometer or thermohygrometer in your home, but if you need more specific measurements, a dedicated hygrometer is what you need.
Place this device on top of a bookshelf or hung on the wall, taking care not to let it be exposed directly to sunlight that could interfere with its accuracy. Check the readout regularly to monitor moisture levels and make sure they stay within recommended ranges for interior air quality.
The Dangers Of Mold And How It Can Affect Your Health
Mold is a fungus that can have serious consequences on one’s health. It is often found in bathrooms and kitchens, as well as other areas like basements and attics, which are particularly prone to moisture accumulation.
Exposure to mold can cause numerous health issues such as respiratory problems, fatigue, headaches, and even long-term effects on the immune system. Mold can also adversely affect those with allergies or asthma. Recognizing the signs of mold growth in your home is important so you can take preventive measures before it becomes a serious problem.
Prevention is always best, so keep your home at the right humidity level to prevent mold growth in the first place.
Tips For Keeping The Humidity At The Correct Level In Your Home
A hygrometer can help you track humidity levels, but there are some things you can do to keep your home at the right humidity level to prevent mold growth.
Use A Dehumidifier Or Humidifier
If your home is too humid, try using a dehumidifier to get rid of the excess moisture in the air. Dehumidifiers come in a variety of sizes, so you can choose one that is appropriate for the size of your home. It is important to empty the dehumidifier regularly, as humid air can cause it to overflow.
If your air is too dry, use a humidifier to bring it up to a comfortable level. Just make sure you don’t add too much humidity as this can cause unwanted condensation and mold.
Use An Air Purifier
Another way to keep the humidity levels in your home under control is to use an air purifier. Air purifiers work by removing contaminants from the air, including mold spores and dust mites. This can help to reduce allergies and other respiratory problems.
Ventilate Your Home
Ventilating your home is another effective way to control the humidity levels. By opening windows and doors, you can allow fresh air to circulate throughout your home. This will help to remove musty odors and prevent mold growth.
Using an air conditioner or a fan is a great way to get cooler drier air circulating through your home.
Clean Your Home Regularly And Service Your Plumbing Systems
Cleaning your home on a regular basis can also help to reduce the level of humidity in your home. Mold and dust mites thrive in humid environments, so it is important to keep your home clean and free of these allergens.
Homeowners should also repair any plumbing or roof leaks as soon as possible that could be contributing additional moisture in the home.
Keep An Eye On Houseplants
Keep an eye on your indoor plants, since they can contribute to higher levels of humidity. The more plants you have in your home, the more likely you are to have higher humidity levels.
Conclusion: The Right Humidity Level To Stop Mold Growth
Identifying the right humidity level to stop mold growth is key to preventing and removing infestations. By monitoring your relative humidity levels inside and outside your home, you can ensure that they remain below the optimal mold growing range.
However, if you suspect you have mold growing in your home it is always best to call a professional who can accurately assess the situation and provide an effective plan of action.
