Use a Dehumidifier to Combat The Health Effects of High Humidity

The Coastal Bend region’s high humidity levels can affect many aspects of daily life. Rising cooling bills, for example, can be attributed to high indoor humidity, and property damage from mold growth and moisture absorbed by wood furnishings and home structure is common.

High humidity can also cause adverse health effects, which can become dangerous if not addressed. Make sure high humidity doesn’t cause problems for health and comfort by using a dehumidifier in your South Texas home.

High Humidity and Health

Overly humid air feels warmer than it actually is. When indoor humidity is too high, perspiration can’t evaporate quickly enough from your skin to cool your body down. You may feel sluggish and tired, when ordinarily you wouldn’t. Blood vessels dilate to release heat, sending more blood to your skin and less to your brain and other internal organs, which can cause mental fatigue or stress, in addition to physical weariness.

High humidity levels have been linked to more serious health problems, such as increased flare-ups in arthritis, asthma and allergy attacks. Some people are more affected by high humidity than others, such as the very young and old, as well as people with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions and weakened immune systems.

Home Dehumidification

Home dehumidification is best accomplished by mechanical means. Dehumidifiers are available as portable models and whole-house dehumidifying systems. Portable models are fine for small problem areas in your home, such as damp basements, single rooms and rooms that receive little sunlight. However, they’re not designed for a whole-home approach.

Whole-home dehumidifiers yield the best results, and they can help your A/C perform more efficiently. Whole-home dehumidifiers are attached to your ductwork to remove moisture from indoor air as it’s forced through the unit. Just set the humidistat to your desired indoor humidity level (35 to 50 percent is considered optimal). There are no buckets to empty, as drainage is automatic.

With a whole-home dehumidifier, you can enjoy ideal humidity levels and relief from health ailments caused by high humidity. For more information about whole-home dehumidifiers, contact CCAC in Corpus Christi today.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Corpus Christi, Texas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about dehumidifiers and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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