How to Correctly Control RH
In our last post we defined what Relative humidity is and described certain relative factors that will help homeowners understand how it can become a real menace to the comfort level of the home, or the friend it can be to your comfort.
This week, in a bit of a checklist approach, we’ll list the kinds of symptoms that can be reduced or eliminated when RH Is correctly controlled, followed by a list of the factors that contribute to RH to make them excessive.
What are positive results of correctly controlling RH?
Reduce or eliminate…
· Occurrence of mold & mildew, related toxins & spores in live/work areas
· Ceiling & wall water stains
· Occurrence of failed window sealed units (excessive humidity is primary cause)
· Peeling wallpaper & bubbling paint
· Deterioration & rot in drywall, wood trim, flooring, & wood framing
· Musty smells
· Corrosion in steel wall systems (rusting of steel)
· Condensed or foggy windows
· Carpet wetting and staining under window areas
· Wall cavity damage through excessive dew point water movement
· Water collection & flooding in window drain troughs
· Window & door frame, furniture & hardwood floor swelling or shrinking
· Aggravated allergy or asthma symptoms
· Aggravated eczema, skin, or membrane conditions
· VOC off gassing & related diseases or symptoms
· Static electricity
· Dry eyes
What factors contribute to RH or combine to make them excessive?
· Humans and pets (mammals) excrete significant moisture through normal breathing & perspiration
· Extended showering or bathing
· Hand washing and air-drying laundry (indoor racks or lines)
· Automatic dryers – particularly where filters are not clean, vents are not clear, or fans have insufficient pressure to move hot moist air to the unit exterior
· Steaming, slow cooking or boiling food
· Inadequate heating of the indoor environment will create condensate problems
· Excessive heating can raise RH % to the point where condensation is uncontrollable
· Gas or propane fireplaces with containment doors open
· Gas or propane stoves
· Large pools of free water (aquariums, numerous or large potted or hydronic plants requiring significant water for growth or maintenance)
· Inadequate daily fresh air changes in living or working space
· Roof leaks
· Plumbing or fixture leaks
https://www.stratafundtrack.com/
#relative humidity #stratahomes #strataliving #home repair
Image Credit: Copyright: feellgood
