It Just Might Be Your Home’s Humidity Levels
It’s hot. Like really hot. And sticky. And kinda gross. If you’ve lived through a Michigan summer, you know the drill—fogged-up eyewear, feeling like you need a shower while you’re still in the shower and frizzy hair so big it needs its own ZIP code. While we spend the better part of August giving Mother Nature the side-eye, the real trouble may be lurking inside, not outside.
Did you know that improper humidity levels in your home can make you feel hotter in the summer and colder in the winter? That’s a fact! But humidity control isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protecting your health and property as well as improving your home’s energy efficiency. And while we associate humidity imbalances with the swampiness of summer, it’s actually a year-round concern. As trusted professionals in whole-home humidifiers in Commerce Township, Matheson understands how crucial proper humidity balance is—not just when it’s hot, but throughout every season.
How Humid Is Too Humid?
So, what is the ideal level of humidity your home should strive for? Matheson recommends indoor relative humidity to be between 35% and 45%. Without humidity control, your home will likely be too humid in the summer months and too dry in the winter months, which can lead to a lot of problems for you, your family and your home.
Even though summer’s the season we feel humidity the most—hello, profuse sweating—your home’s moisture levels can also plummet during Michigan winters. That means static shocks, dry skin and more strain on your heating system. But right now, let’s focus on the hot, heavy air we’re all wading through. Here are some of the indicators that the humidity inside your home is off:
- The air feels warmer than it should. High humidity can make a 74-degree room feel closer to 80, leading your AC to work overtime. If you’re constantly fiddling with the thermostat, humidity may be the real culprit.
- Condensation crops up. Moisture collecting on windows, walls or pipes—even on days without rain—can signal too much humidity indoors. Left unchecked, it may lead to mold or water damage.
- Allergy or asthma symptoms are worse than usual. Mold spores, mildew and dust mites thrive in humid environments, aggravating respiratory conditions and triggering flare-ups.
- Musty or funky smells. A persistent odor—especially in basements, bathrooms or closets—is often a sign that moisture is helping hidden mold or mildew take root.
- Wood damage or warping. Wood floors, cabinets, doors and trim can absorb excess moisture, causing them to swell, crack or warp over time. This can lead to costly repairs or replacements.
- Increased pests. Many pests—like silverfish, centipedes and earwigs (oh, my!)—love humid conditions. A damp home can become a welcome habitat for critters trying to escape the heat.
- Electronics acting up. High humidity can affect sensitive electronics, causing malfunctions or shortening their lifespan.
- Paint that won’t behave. Peeling, bubbling or cracking paint can often be traced back to high humidity that interferes with proper adhesion.
- Sweaty walls. Yes, it’s a thing. Surfaces that feel damp or sticky to the touch are likely soaking up excess moisture from the air.
Humidity might not seem like a big deal—but if you’re seeing these signs, your home could be quietly paying the price.
The Lowdown on Whole-Home Humidity Control
Unlike portable humidifiers or dehumidifiers that treat one room at a time, whole-home systems are built into your HVAC system. That means they can maintain consistent moisture levels throughout your entire home—without the inconvenience of moving machines or emptying tanks. Here’s how they make a difference:
- Keep things comfy all year. Dry air in winter can irritate your skin and sinuses, while muggy air in summer leaves everything feeling damp. A whole-home solution keeps indoor conditions just right.
- Protect your stuff. Wood furniture, musical instruments, floors, artwork—these are all sensitive to moisture changes. Humidity control extends their life and preserves their condition.
- Improve HVAC efficiency. When your air is at the right moisture level, your system doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain your desired temperature. That can lead to lower energy bills.
- Support healthier living. Balanced humidity helps prevent allergens, bacteria and mold from spreading, contributing to a cleaner and safer indoor environment.
- Set it and forget it. These systems automatically regulate moisture levels, so there’s no need for constant monitoring or manual adjustments.
- Boost overall comfort. Balanced humidity just feels better—less static shock, more restful sleep and better breathing day and night, summer, fall, winter and spring!
Breathe Easier With a Little Help From Matheson
Humidity might be invisible, but the problems it creates are anything but. Whether it’s warped floors, restless nights or a cooling system that’s constantly playing catch-up, high indoor humidity can quietly take a toll on your home and your comfort. That’s why whole-home humidity control matters—not just in August, but all year long.
At Matheson, we help you create a healthier, more comfortable living environment with solutions tailored to your home. If humidity is just one of the indoor air quality challenges you’re facing, we can help! From top-of-the-line air filters to air purification systems, our team is here to support every part of your home’s air—so you can breathe easier, live better and enjoy more consistent comfort no matter what Michigan’s weather is doing outside. We offer a full range of indoor air quality solutions to help you take control of your comfort.
To schedule your next appointment, please feel free to use our convenient scheduling tool or call us at 248.971.2994.