The winter months can be especially uncomfortable, especially when the humidity levels in your home are not managed correctly. Humidity affects more than just temperature — it can also affect air quality and HVAC performance. Knowing how to control it in your home is crucial to maintaining consistent indoor comfort during the colder months.
In this post, Shackelford Heating & Cooling, a renowned HVAC installation company in your area, shares humidity’s effects on your property and how to ensure your system can efficiently work in it.
The Effects of Humidity
Humidity is the amount of moisture in the air that affects how we perceive temperature. When humidity levels are low, the air feels cooler than it is because our bodies aren’t able to absorb as much moisture from it. When humidity levels are high, you might notice warped floorboards and walls. Mold and mildew can also thrive in a humid environment, affecting not just your home’s structure but also your home’s indoor air quality. The dampness of the surrounding air makes the skin feel clammy.
The Impact of Humidity on HVAC Performance in Winter
The amount of moisture in the air drops as temperatures fall during the winter months. Cranking the thermostat up can help warm your indoor spaces and reduce the dryness of the indoor air, but doing so only increases your home’s energy consumption. Some members of your household may experience respiratory problems. You may also notice furniture and trim shrinking or cracking because of the low humidity.
Ways to Manage Humidity in Your Home
Fortunately, there are many ways to ensure home humidity control this winter. As the trusted heating and air conditioner repair company in the area, we recommend using a humidifier that will help add moisture to your indoor air. Make sure that the unit you buy is sized properly for your home; a whole-home variant is usually installed in a home’s HVAC system to add the sufficient amount of moisture to the air circulating around the ductwork.
Another way to manage home humidity levels is to keep your home well-insulated. This allows your heating system to provide and maintain the desired temperature. A professional contractor can check for any air leaks around windows or doors and seal them with caulk or weather stripping if necessary.
Turn to Shackelford Heating & Cooling for Your HVAC Needs
Shackelford Heating & Cooling, one of the best HVAC contractors in the area, can help ensure your home’s comfort this winter. To learn more about our residential heating services, call us today at (608) 530-0667, or fill out this contact form to schedule a service appointment. We proudly serve homes in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
