If you keep up with the Attic Guys Blog, you’re probably well aware of the problems creates by high humidity levels inside the home. Allowing moisture problems to remain unaddressed can lead to mildew, mold and even rot. This isn’t something that happens overnight, but months of high humidity can certainly lead to these problems and more. This is why it’s important for homeowners to remain vigilant in their efforts to eliminate sources of moisture.
Boiling Water on The Stove
Yep, boiling water on the stove can raise the humidity levels inside your home. Let’s say you place 3 cups of water in the pot but only 1 cup of water is left behind once it’s finished cooking. This means that roughly 2 cups of water have evaporated into your home, which is a pretty significant amount.
Does this mean you shouldn’t boil water on the stove? Absolutely not, but you should consider using the exhaust fan to pull out the moisture-rich water rather than allowing it to accumulate in the air. Most modern-day stoves feature built-in exhaust fans directly above, so take advantage of them the next time you boil water.
Uncovered Ground
Another little-known source of water in the home is from uncovered ground. If your home features a crawlspace with exposed ground underneath, moisture will travel up into your home where it increases the humidity levels. Placing a tarp down is a temporary solution that will offer some benefit, but the ground really needs proper flooring to keep the moisture locked in place.
Showers and Baths
Of course, the humidity goes up each time someone takes a shower or bath in your home. The bathroom is one of the worst places inside the home in terms of humidity. Ever notice the cloud of steam lingering in the bathroom once you get out of the shower? This is the direct result of excess humidity, and it could lead to a world of problems later down the road.
If you’re struggling to get the humidity in your bathroom under control, try the following tips:
- Turn the exhaust fan on while you shower and leave it running for 20-30 minutes once you finish.
- Increase the amount of light in your bathroom. Installing a secondary form of lighting, such a wall sconce or track lighting, may help control the moisture levels.
- Take shorter showers.
- Take cooler showers.
- Pull the shower curtain back when you are finished.
