The relative humidity level inside your Madera, CA home should always be between 35% and 50%. If you allow humidity levels to rise above 50%, this can lead to mold growth, stuffy indoor air, and high levels of particulate matter. There are ways you can maintain optimal humidity in your home using your HVAC system.
Run Your HVAC System Periodically
Always operate your HVAC system throughout the day and night. If you attempt to save money by shutting down your system, this can allow relative humidity to rise quite quickly. Your AC system does a good job of removing some of the moisture from your indoor air. The process of cooling the air in your home involves condensing and collecting water. This moisture moves away from your home through a dedicated drain line.
Installing a Whole-Home Dehumidifier
You shouldn’t rely on your HVAC system solely to manage indoor humidity levels. Install a whole-home dehumidifier to remove moisture when necessary. A smart thermostat can also allow you to monitor and manage your dehumidifier settings easily, even when you’re away from home using your smart device.
Using Exhaust Fans
Most homes have exhaust fans installed in areas like the bathroom and kitchen. You should run these fans when you’re cleaning, cooking, or bathing to remove excess moisture. If you have other areas of the home with high humidity levels, consider installing exhaust fans or ventilation equipment, such as in the attic or basement.
Adjust Your Thermostat Settings
The auto mode on your thermostat can be used to run the blower only when your heating or cooling equipment is on. You can turn the fan on if you want to circulate air, but this can sometimes introduce moisture into your system and circulate it through your home. Some thermostats may have a dehumidifying setting, which allows for longer cool-down cycles when a set temperature is achieved.
Smart thermostats often come with humidity sensors. You can use this feature to remotely monitor your relative humidity levels and adjust your HVAC system. Your smart thermostat may also adjust fan speeds and compressor cycles to better control indoor humidity.
Sealing Your Ductwork
It’s important to maintain a sealed system of ducting. If you have several holes or gaps in your ductwork, this can allow moisture to enter and accumulate. This moisture can circulate to other areas of your home, raising indoor humidity. Mold can also grow in your ducting if moisture is present and then circulate throughout your home. Mold exposure can make you and your family very sick, causing frequent headaches, nausea, pain, dizziness, and fatigue.
You should also consider insulating your ductwork. This will help retain the temperature of the air inside your ducting, allowing you to maintain a comfortable indoor environment free from excessive moisture or particulate matter.
Keep Up With Routine Maintenance
Your HVAC system can only help you maintain relative humidity between 35% and 50% if you maintain it periodically. We recommend scheduling a routine inspection for your system at least once per year. We can perform minor repairs as needed, lubricate moving parts, and clean interior components to ensure equipment reliability and efficiency.
Part of routine maintenance includes clearing the drain line that is part of your cooling setup and/or dehumidifier. If this line becomes clogged with debris or mineral deposits, water will pool nearby. This introduces moisture into your indoor air.
Your HVAC equipment can last 15 to 20 years. If you have old equipment, consider upgrading. This can help lower your monthly energy bills long-term while providing better control over your indoor humidity levels.
Maintaining a Tight Home Envelope
You should seal around windows and doors to keep outside air from coming indoors. This is especially beneficial when the level of moisture outside is high because of recent rainfall or other factors. Use materials like weatherstripping and caulk to keep windows and doors sealed.
Get Expert Help From the HVAC Pros!
Brian's Heating & Cooling, Inc. can help you manage the relative humidity in your home using your HVAC system. We can also perform a routine HVAC system inspection and offer related humidity-controlling equipment. When you have an emergency, our technicians will respond quickly. Contact Brian’s Heating & Cooling, Inc. for humidity support in Madera today.
