The Surprising Link Between Humidity and Respiratory Health
Too much or too little moisture in the air can worsen allergies, trigger asthma, and even make breathing more difficult. Let’s explore how humidity affects your lungs, why maintaining an ideal moisture level matters and how Ashton Heating & Cooling can help you create a healthier home.
How Humidity Impacts Your Breathing
High Humidity: Traps Allergens & Mold
When indoor humidity climbs above 60%, it creates the perfect storm for respiratory irritants. This excess moisture allows mould spores to germinate on surfaces and in your ductwork, while dust mites thrive in damp bedding and upholstery. The muggy air also encourages bacterial growth, creating a triple threat for allergy and asthma sufferers.
Low Humidity: Dries Out Airways
When indoor moisture falls below 30%, the dry air literally pulls moisture from your body. This dehydration effect first targets your respiratory system, causing irritated nasal passages that can lead to frequent nosebleeds and a persistent tickle in your throat. The added irritation often triggers flare-ups and prolonged discomfort for those managing chronic conditions like bronchitis or sinusitis.
The Ideal Range: 30-50% Humidity
The ideal 30-50% humidity creates the perfect balance for health and comfort. This sweet spot keeps nasal passages comfortably moist while making it harder for allergens and viruses to thrive. Maintaining this range prevents mould growth by denying it the damp environment it needs to spread.
Ways to Control Humidity at Home
Use a Humidifier or Dehumidifier
Balancing your home’s humidity is essential for health and comfort. If your air is too dry, a whole-home humidifier system does more than ease irritation – it creates an optimal 40-60% humidity range that reduces respiratory infections and protects your home. For damp conditions, a dehumidifier prevents mould growth and dust mites.
Improve Ventilation
Proper ventilation is crucial for maintaining healthy humidity levels and air quality. Start by running bathroom exhaust fans during and for 15-20 minutes after showers to remove excess moisture. For whole-home refreshment, open windows when outdoor conditions permit (aim for days with moderate temperatures and low pollen counts).
Maintain Your HVAC System
Proper HVAC maintenance is key to humidity control. Start by changing filters monthly to maintain airflow, and don’t overlook your ductwork—leaky ducts can sabotage your comfort. Getting an Aeroseal duct sealing service permanently seals leaks from inside your ducts, improving airflow while reducing dust, allergens and energy waste.
Breathe Easy at Home
As your partner for healthier indoor air, we specialize in creating conducive indoor environments through precise humidity control. From whole-home HVAC solutions to professional duct cleaning and the innovative AEROSEAL sealing technology, we provide complete solutions to optimize your air quality. Your comfort and well-being are at the heart of everything we do—because everyone deserves to breathe easily in their own home.
Protect your loved ones’ respiratory health at home. Contact us today to learn more about humidity solutions and duct sealing options so we can help you achieve healthier humidity levels in your home!
