Get Rid Of Excess Moisture With These Helpful Hints From Breathe Easy!
Here in Alabama, suffocating heat is hardly a stranger to us. However, many would agree the soaring temperatures would be much more tolerable without the accompanying humidity. While many of us have all but given up on styling our hair due to the frizz-factor that comes with high levels of atmospheric moisture, humidity can cause more serious reactions such as dehydration, fatigue, muscle cramps, heat exhaustion and even fainting!
6 Easy Ways To Reduce Humidity Levels In Your Home
Utilize Vents
Cooking and showering both release moisture into the air, increasing humidity levels. Make sure you run your exhaust fans in your kitchen and bathroom to keep evaporated water from circulating throughout your home. Additionally; it is important to clean these fixtures frequently to prevent debris like dust and grease from building up and hindering their efficiency.
Keep Plants Outside
Indoor plant life has become increasingly popular over the years. Though they are aesthetically pleasing, leafy greens release water into the atmosphere which can contribute to uncomfortably high humidity levels, especially if your windows are closed most of the time. Consider placing your plants outside during particularly stifling months.
Fix Leaks
Leaky pipes under your home or within your walls could very well contribute to rising humidity levels inside. If you do not see any blatant signs, such as rings or water stains, consider taking a look at your plumbing anyway; you never know where leaks may be hiding! However, if you do notice marks on your ceiling, walls or floor, call a plumber right away to remedy the leak as soon as possible.
Shorter Showers
One of the most significant sources of elevated humidity within our homes stems from long, hot showers. During these summer months, keep your showers as short as possible and make sure to run your ventilation fans while the shower is running. Additionally, consider leaving the door and windows open for about half an hour after you’re finished. This will allow any leftover steam to exit your home with ease!
Calcium Chloride
Many people may have heard of sodium chloride, otherwise known as salt. Its cousin, calcium chloride, happens to be adept in water absorption! Easily found at hardware stores, this handy compound possesses a unique trait known as hygroscopic, which means it aggressively attracts moisture in its surroundings. Consider placing a few pots of this compound in especially oppressive areas of your home to get a quick reduction in your home’s humidity levels. However, it is important not to ingest calcium chloride as it may result in burning of the mouth and stomach pain. It can also irritate the skin, so make sure you wear gloves if opting for this solution!
Humidity Controller
A humidity controller allows you to manage moisture levels in every room! While your HVAC system removes some water from the air, Alabama can become particularly suffocating, so it may need a little extra help! If the humidity in your home is too high, bacteria and mold can begin to grow, creating a musty smell and causing significant health problems such as sneezing, sore throat and headaches! A humidity controller is an energy-efficient, quiet product that is capable of removing up to 70 pints of moisture from your indoor air!
If you have any questions about how to best deal with rising humidity levels in your home, contact us to schedule a consultation today. We are the Birmingham, AL area’s air quality experts and we are here to help!
