How Humidity in Your Home Affects Your Health

Created By RISC | 1 year ago

Last modified date : 1 year ago

Thailand’s tropical climate, especially during the rainy season, inevitably raises the issue of humidity. Although it’s often overlooked, humidity affects our health. We need a suitable level in our homes or we might get a cough, sneeze, or respiratory disease.

Relative humidity (RH) is the amount of water vapor in the air, which varies with air pressure and temperature. The appropriate range is 40-60%.​

What if the relative humidity level is outside 40-60%?​

When the relative humidity is too high (over 60%) mold, dust mites, and bacteria can increase and cause allergies and respiratory problems. Floor and wooden furniture could deteriorate too. We can reduce humidity by opening windows on sunny days, turning on fans, or using a dehumidifier. Air conditioners can be adjusted appropriately.

When humidity is too low (below 40%) we can get a sore nose or throat or a cough. It also makes the skin dry and irritates eyes. We can increase the humidity with a humidifier or plants.

Proper humidity in the home is an important factor for comfort and shouldn’t be neglected. It also protects the health of our pets.

Story by: Phetcharin Phongphetkul, Sustainable Designer/ LEED®AP BD+C, WELLTM AP,Fitwel Ambassador, TREES-A NC, RISC​

Reference
https://scijinks.gov/what-is-humidity/