Here in NW Florida, we are constantly fighting to control high indoor humidity levels to prevent microbial growth in the home. When left unchecked, high indoor humidity can lead to mold and mildew, which can affect the integrity of the house's structure and be hazardous to your family's health.
Here are some simple steps you can take to lower the indoor humidity levels.
1. Check and change HVAC filters every 2-3 months: Keeping your air conditioner or furnace healthy by changing the filters can help reduce humidity and extend your unit's life.
2. Use desiccants in the room: DampRid, baskets of charcoal, baking soda, rock salt, or kitty litter can absorb excess moisture in the air. Replace these items every 1 to 3 months.
3. Take cooler showers to reduce steam and turn on the exhaust fan before stepping into the shower.
4. Turn on the AC: Air conditioners remove humidity from the air while cooling it. Don’t set the air conditioner to an excessively cold temperature; it can lead to condensation and have the reverse effect.
5. Improve the room airflow: Ceiling fans, exhaust fans, and standing fans circulate the air and reduce the moisture in the air.
6. Line dry clothes or beach towels outdoors to prevent moisture from lingering in the air.
7. Keep surfaces dry: squeegee your shower, tub, and kitchen sink after use to prevent standing water from evaporating into the air
8. Certain plants, such as aloe, succulents, cacti, ferns, ivy, orchids, peace lilies, and tillandsia (air plants), will draw moisture from the air to lower humidity, and they look great!
DO YOU LIVE OUT OF STATE and can't accomplish this checklist? Then, call Honesty Guard Homewatch, and we'll make sure your non-rental home is well cared for.
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