Indoor humidity significantly impacts comfort, health, and your home itself. The Bay Area's variable climate makes humidity management particularly important.
The Ideal Range
Target: 30-50% Relative Humidity
Below 30%:
Dry skin and irritated airways
Static electricity
Wood furniture/floors can crack
Increased susceptibility to illness
Above 50%:
Mold and mildew growth
Dust mites thrive
Musty odors
Wood swelling, paint peeling
Humidity and Seasons
Winter:
Heating systems dry indoor air, often dropping humidity below comfortable levels.
Summer:
AC naturally dehumidifies, but excessive humidity can still occur during mild, damp weather.
Bay Area Specifics:
Coastal areas: Higher humidity year-round
Inland areas: Drier, especially summer
Microclimates vary dramatically
Controlling High Humidity
Immediate Actions:
Run bathroom exhaust fans during/after showers
Use kitchen ventilation when cooking
Fix any water leaks promptly
Don't dry clothes indoors
HVAC Solutions:
Whole-Home Dehumidifier:
Integrates with ductwork
Removes 30-100 pints daily
Automatic humidity control
Cost: $1,500-$3,000 installed
Proper AC Sizing:
Oversized AC short-cycles, reducing dehumidification. Proper sizing helps.
Variable-Speed Equipment:
Longer run times at lower speeds improve dehumidification.
Controlling Low Humidity
Immediate Actions:
Reduce excessive ventilation
Add houseplants
Use stovetop cooking (adds moisture)
Lower thermostat slightly (warmer feels more humid)
HVAC Solutions:
Whole-Home Humidifier:
Bypass or fan-powered styles
Integrates with furnace
Automatic control
Cost: $500-$1,500 installed
Types of Humidifiers:
Bypass: Uses furnace airflow
Fan-powered: Independent operation
Steam: Most precise, highest cost
Measuring Humidity
Hygrometers:
Inexpensive ($10-$30)
Digital or analog
Place away from moisture sources
Check different rooms
Smart Thermostats:
Many include humidity monitoring and can trigger equipment.
Signs of Problems
Too Dry:
Waking with dry throat
Static shocks
Gaps in wood flooring
Peeling wallpaper
Too Humid:
Condensation on windows
Musty smells
Mold in bathrooms/closets
Clammy feeling
Balanced humidity improves comfort and protects your home. For persistent problems, whole-home solutions integrated with your HVAC provide the best control.