Reducing Moisture: How to Lower Humidity at Your Place
Have you ever come home to your apartment, only to be greeted by stuffy air and musty smells? Perhaps you’ve also noticed stains on the ceilings and walls, or water droplets constantly pooling on your windows? Or, have you come home to leaks or flooding?
Humidity and water leaks can cause damage to both your health and your property. When humidity levels are too high, it can impact indoor air quality and contribute to the growth of mold, bacteria, and dust mites. If you live in an older building, it’s even more likely to have mold, since these structures have had more weather exposure and use older building materials. And if humidity levels are too low? Well, that’s not a good thing either and could lead to cracked skin, dry sinuses, and even nose bleeds.
The first step to understanding your apartment’s humidity and safeguarding your home to make sure you’re notified of any water damage before it gets too bad is a Water + Climate Sensor. But let’s look at some tips for humidity first, and then we’ll get into where you can put your Water + Climate Sensor to be most beneficial in your apartment.
The Humidity Hustle: Why It Matters
High indoor humidity isn't just unpleasant; it can harm your health and your home. It fosters the growth of mold and dust mites, impacting air quality. Studies by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have shown that high indoor humidity levels (above 50%) can trigger respiratory problems like asthma and allergies. For older buildings, with their exposure to weather and older materials, mold problems are even more likely.
On the other hand, excessively dry air (low humidity) can cause cracked skin and irritated sinuses. So, how do we find the ideal indoor humidity level?
What causes humidity in an apartment?
Ultimately, high humidity is caused by excessive moisture, which can accumulate due to…
Leaks - Tiny leaks can wreak havoc and can cause high humidity levels, turning into costly repairs. Here's where the Water + Climate Sensor comes in! This nifty gadget instantly alerts you to leaks, allowing you to fix them before major damage occurs. Place them near sinks, refrigerators, dishwashers - anywhere prone to leaks.
Daily Activities: Cooking, showering (hot showers generate more water vapor), and exercising all add moisture to the air. Cramped spaces exacerbate the issue. Sharing an apartment? Don't banish your roommates (or baths!) Just boost ventilation with a fan or open a window.
Poor Airflow: Without proper circulation (ceiling fans, air conditioners, or open windows), moisture lingers, creating a humid environment and promoting condensation on windows and other surfaces.
Where should you put a Water + Climate Sensor in your apartment?
With our Water + Climate Sensor, you’ll find out instantly when there are leaks, so you can fix it before the real (expensive) damage is done. Left unattended, the tiniest of water drops could lead to damage to your walls, crazy water bills, and more. In fact, it’s reported that the average household loses nearly 10,000 gallons of water every year due to leaks. Not only is it a waste of water, but money too. If water is detected, you’ll instantly receive a notification to your phone. Put them in areas that might be at risk of water leakage and flooding, such as:
By the windows - If you live somewhere that rains often and are prone to leaving the windows open by accident, it’s a good idea to put a nearby Water + Climate Sensor to ensure you’re notified before your belongings get soaked.
The bathroom - Most water leaks are almost always found in the bathroom, as all water supply lines eventually lead here. In fact, a leaking shower alone can waste more than 500 gallons of water annually! The most obvious signs of leakage are dripping faucets or shower heads, seepage under the sink or toilet valve connections, puddles, and damp patches.
The kitchen - A chronically leaking kitchen sink isn’t normal, and could mean there’s more severe damage underneath the surface. For starters, you can inspect underneath the pump or connections, which can rot the floor. You may also inspect the icemaker area on the rear of the refrigerator, and nearby walls if there is any condensation.
Under the washing machine - Do you keep a washing machine in your apartment? If it’s an older model, it’s prone to break down at any time. It only takes one leak in the hose springs for your entire apartment to be flooded in minutes.
Taming the Moisture Monster: Lowering Indoor Humidity
While the Water + Climate Sensor helps identify leaks, sometimes you need a more proactive approach to managing indoor humidity. Here are some solutions:
Dehumidifiers: These appliances are lifesavers in humid environments. They work by drawing moisture from the air(dehumidifying the air), creating a more comfortable and healthier atmosphere. Look for models suitable for the size of your apartment.
Exhaust Fans: Don't underestimate the power of these unsung heroes! Turn them on during and after showers and cooking sessions to vent excess moisture directly out of your apartment,promoting ventilation and preventing condensation on windows.
Dehumidify Naturally: Whenever possible, open windows and allow fresh air to circulate. This natural ventilation helps reduce indoor humidity levels.
Beyond the Basics: Maintaining a Healthy Indoor Environment
This guide focused on the Kangaroo Water + Climate Sensor, but there's more to humidity control:
Monitor humidity levels: A hygrometer measures relative humidity, helping you maintain a comfortable and healthy range (ideally 30-50%). The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and many health experts recommend keeping indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% to prevent the growth of mold and mildew and create a comfortable living environment.
Control shower steam: Opt for cooler showers and hang dry clothes instead of using the dryer. This reduces the amount of water vapor added to the air, preventing condensation and creating a less humid environment.
Consider houseplants: Some plants absorb moisture, naturally improving air quality and helping to control humidity. Here are some popular choices: spider plants, peace lilies, and snake plants
Air Conditioner: While not the most energy-efficient option, air conditioners can also help dehumidify the air as a byproduct of cooling. However, they can also dry out the air excessively, so monitor humidity levels closely if using this method.
HVAC System: Some HVAC systems have built-in dehumidification functions. Consult your system's manual or a qualified technician to see if this is an option for you.
Whole House Dehumidifier: For severe humidity problems, a whole-house dehumidifier may be necessary. This is a permanent installation, typically connected to the HVAC system, and requires professional help.
Increase Ventilation: Good ventilation is key to controlling humidity. Aim for at least 30 minutes of fresh air exchange daily by opening windows and doors, especially in moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms. In colder weather, crack a window for shorter periods throughout the day to maintain ventilation without sacrificing too much heat.
Address Moisture Sources: Promptly fix leaky faucets, pipes, and appliances. Check for condensation around windows and insulate cold surfaces to prevent water vapor from collecting. Dry up any spills or damp spots immediately to prevent mold growth.
Reduce Moisture Production: During cooking, use pot lids to trap steam and turn on exhaust fans. Minimize the use of humidifiers, especially if humidity levels are already high.
Door Seals and Weatherstripping: Ensure a tight seal around windows and doors to prevent outdoor moisture from entering your apartment. This will not only help control humidity but can also improve energy efficiency.
Dry Clothes Wisely: Avoid hanging wet clothes indoors, as they release moisture into the air. If possible, use a vented dryer or hang clothes outside to dry.
Reduce Damp Carpeting: Damp carpets can be a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Clean up spills promptly and allow carpets to dry completely. Consider replacing old or moldy carpets with moisture-resistant flooring options in high-humidity areas like bathrooms.
Dehumidifiers: Your Indoor Moisture Management Partner
Dehumidifiers are lifesavers in humid environments. They work by drawing moisture-laden air through a filter, where water vapor condenses and collects in a reservoir. The dry air is then circulated back into the room, effectively lowering the humidity level.
Here's a deeper dive into dehumidifiers to help you choose the right one for your apartment:
Types of Dehumidifiers:
Desiccant Dehumidifiers: These work well in cooler climates (below 60°F) and are more energy-efficient. They're ideal for removing large amounts of moisture from the air.
Refrigerant Dehumidifiers: These are more common and work well in warmer climates. They operate similarly to air conditioners, using coils to condense moisture.
Choosing the Right Size: Dehumidifiers come in various capacities, measured in pints of moisture removed per day. A good rule of thumb is to choose a dehumidifier that can handle the square footage of your apartment. For example, a 30-pint dehumidifier is suitable for spaces up to 1,500 square feet.
Placement: For optimal performance, place your dehumidifier in the most humid room, ideally on a level surface with at least 6 inches of clearance around it. Avoid placing it near heat sources or vents, as this can hinder its efficiency.
Emptying the Reservoir: Dehumidifiers collect water in a reservoir that needs to be emptied regularly to prevent overflowing and mold growth. Depending on the model and humidity levels, you might need to empty it daily or every few days.
Maintenance: Clean the air filter regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions. This ensures efficient operation and prevents dust buildup that can reduce airflow.
By following these tips and using the Kangaroo Water + Climate Sensor, you can create a comfortable and healthy living environment in your apartment, free from the worries of excessive humidity and water damage. Remember, an ideal indoor humidity level promotes good health and prevents the growth of mold and mildew. Take control of your apartment's atmosphere and breathe easy!
Here are some more ways to use our Kangaroo Water + Climate Sensor !
