Anyone who’s spent a summer in Indiana knows how damp and muggy things can get. Humidity occurs when there’s a lot of moisture in the air, and that moisture can cause headaches in a few different ways. What’s at stake when that humidity seeps into your home? Quite a lot, actually.
Property Damage
Mold and mildew love moisture. When there’s a lot of humidity in your home, it’s an open invitation for these fungi to set up shop and multiply—especially in damp areas, like the bathroom. You might also see humidity take its toll on wood furniture, like warping dining room tables and chairs. And if the humidity persists for long enough, you could see water spotting and damage on your ceiling and walls.
Health
Humidity can even take a toll on your health. For example, the mold and mildew mentioned above are both allergens. That can lead to respiratory issues and be tough on residents with asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Too much humidity also makes the air feel warmer than the actual, recorded temperature, causing your body temp to rise and leading to lethargy and light-headedness. The extra sweat you produce can lead to skin irritation, dry eyes, nose bleeds, and dehydration. In extreme cases, you might develop heat exhaustion or heat stroke which can be fatal. Excess moisture in the air isn’t just bad for your home—it’s bad for you, too.
Quality of Life
A humid home can smell a little bit musty and unpleasant. You might also experience a general discomfort because the air is thick and can make you feel fatigued. It’s tougher for you to cool down in a humid home, so you might find yourself running hot or having trouble sleeping. But when you manage humidity, you set yourself up for a more comfortable and satisfying day-to-day.
Dehumidifying Your Home
Humidity can definitely wreak havoc on your home and your life. But here’s the good news: You can manage each of these concerns by installing a whole-house dehumidifier, which can help protect your personal property, your health, and your overall quality of life. Reach out to Appel today for more information!