How to Test Humidity in Your Home

Thermostat showing temperature and humidity level in Atlanta home

Most homeowners focus on having the ideal indoor home temperature for comfort. But did you know that having the right amount of humidity in your home matters as much?

Low humidity levels can cause various issues such as dry skin and flu germs. High humidity on the other hand can result in growth of fungus, mold, etc. Experts recommend that you maintain a humidity level of between 30 and 50 percent at home. But to achieve these ideal humidity levels, you need to know how to check humidity level in the house.

How do you measure humidity in your home?

If you’re wondering how to check humidity in home, then here’s how to go about it:

Use a hygrometer.

A hygrometer is a small, inexpensive instrument used to measure how high or low water vapor is in the air. You can find a hygrometer in hardware stores or in some department stores

Search for basic Indicators of high indoor humidity.

Search for basic Indicators of high indoor humidity.

  • Condensation forming on windows/doors.
  • Presence of mold, mildew or stains of water on ceilings or walls.
  • Presence of mold, mildew or stains of water on ceilings or walls.
  • Presence of mold, mildew or stains of water on ceilings or walls.

Perform a capillary test.

This test will help you know whether moisture seeps into the house, (via walls, foundation or floor) or if it comes from indoor air. Here’s how to test humidity in a home with this method:

  • Look for a surface that’s damp around the house.
  • Using a portable hair dryer, dry an area that’s about 2 ft x 2 ft.
  • Use a transparent barrier such as polyethylene to cover the dried area.
  • Give it two days or so, and come back and check moisture presence. If the barrier is wet on the room side, it means there’s high humidity levels in your home. If the barrier is wet underneath, it means moisture is emanating from outdoors.

How to maintain an optimal level of humidity in house

How to maintain an optimal level of humidity in house

  1. How to maintain an optimal level of humidity in house
  2. How to maintain an optimal level of humidity in house
  3. Ensure you vent the exhaust fans to the outdoors.
  4. Insulate your home.
  5. Dehumidify your home.

Need Atlanta HVAC Service? Moncrief Heating & Air Conditioning can assist

How to test humidity in a house is a question lots of homeowners ask. If you find it hard testing humidity in your home using the above methods, contact a professional to help you out. Get in touch with Moncrief Heating & Air Conditioning for HVAC Atlanta GA & check out the blog for more home humidity tips and HVAC-related issues.