Congratulations on your new home! As you settle in, it’s important to understand the role humidity plays in maintaining a comfortable and healthy living environment. While your HVAC system regulates temperature, proper humidity control is essential to prevent potential damage and ensure long-term enjoyment of your home.

Why Humidity Matters

Both excessive moisture and dryness can have negative consequences. Too much humidity can lead to mold growth and damage to hardwood, trim, and cabinets, while too little humidity can cause dry skin, respiratory issues, and static electricity.

Maintaining Optimal Humidity

Here are some guidelines for maintaining ideal humidity levels in your home:

Summertime:

• Avoid running your HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) during the summer months. This can draw warm, humid air from outside into your home.
• Ensure your air conditioner is running during the summer, even if you’re away for extended periods. This helps remove excess humidity.
• Consider installing a dehumidifier. A whole-home dehumidifier attached to your HVAC system is the most effective option. Portable dehumidifiers can also be helpful in specific areas. Ensure the dehumidifier is appropriately sized for your home’s square footage.

Wintertime:

• Run your HRV during the winter when outdoor humidity is low. This helps remove stale air and bring in fresh air. For more information on HRV operation, visit ckmechanical.com/iaq/.
• Consider installing a humidifier. A whole-home humidifier integrated with your HVAC system is ideal. Portable humidifiers can also be used to add moisture to specific rooms. Ensure the humidifier is appropriately sized for your home’s square footage.

Protecting Your Investment

Maintaining proper humidity levels is crucial for protecting your home and its finishes. Excessive humidity can lead to costly damage that may not be covered by your Tarion warranty.

By following these guidelines, you can create a comfortable and healthy living environment while safeguarding your investment in your new home.

If you have any questions about humidity control or indoor air quality, please don’t hesitate to contact us.