What’s a Healthy Humidity Level for Homes in San Antonio?

Dealing with fluctuating humidity levels can make you feel an awful lot like Goldilocks before she found the solution that felt “just right.” Depending on the weather or the time of year, humidity in your home can be too low or too high. And neither one feels comfortable.

Here’s what homeowners should know about striking the perfect balance in San Antonio’s climate — and why it’s important.

When the humidity is too low (less than 30%)

This isn’t as much of a problem for us in South Texas, but low humidity can be a real pain. In the dry winter months, low humidity levels indoors can lead to dry skin and nasal irritation.

When the humidity dips below 30%, you may start noticing the physical effects. For instance, if the levels are too low in your bedroom overnight, you’ll probably wake up feeling dried out and drained even before you start your day.

INDOOR AIR EVALUATION

When the humidity is too high (more than 60%)

High humidity is the real enemy in San Antonio homes. It can lead to countless comfort issues and household hazards.

Mold thrives in hot, humid corners around the house, even if you can’t see it. Dust mites also go crazy in high humidity, aggravating allergies and contaminating the air you breathe.

When there’s too much moisture in the air, you can never really feel cool. Instead, you’re clammy and uncomfortable. Plus, this issue can lead to strange odors you just can’t seem to get rid of.

A high temperature combined with high humidity can put you at risk of a heat disorder. If your AC unit breaks down during a dangerously hot streak, you could experience dizziness, fatigue, dehydration or heat stroke, requiring medical attention.

No matter how you look at it, high humidity isn’t healthy. But it’s possible to get it under control.

When the humidity is just right (between 30% to 50%)

The EPA recommends keeping your indoor relative humidity between 30% and 50%. A simple, inexpensive temperature and humidity gauge can quickly tell you how your indoor air compares.

If high humidity is an issue in your home, installing a dehumidifier can remove the excess moisture from the air to keep you comfortable all year round.

But the solution often starts with proper maintenance. If your AC system becomes dirty, the indoor coils get blocked and the components simply aren’t performing as well as they should, your system won’t be able to dehumidify the air while it cools your home.

A comprehensive tune-up from Tiger Services will uncover the culprit behind your humidity issues. Our technicians will know just what solutions to recommend, based on your home’s characteristics and the climate control issues you’re experiencing.

Send us a text or call us at (210) 344-0060. We’ll help you get back on track with healthy humidity levels at home.