Comfortable Room Temperature

Tools and ideas for home comfort--that is what AirFlow Technology is all about. Today I'd like to talk about a tool for measuring relative humidity: the hygrometer.

We talk about humidity and moisture quite a bit in this blog--especially crawl space moisture (which can cause mold problems). In my last post, I quoted Dr. Sears, who tells us that a humidity range between 40-60% is healthy for the body. Of course, if you're not measuring humidity in your home, it's difficult to get the benefits of that ideal humidity range. The good news is that a hygrometer is a very inexpensive tool for measuring relative humidity that you can buy at just about any hardware store.

I discovered a page by Canada Mortgage and Housing that has a wealth of information about hygrometers. Here are a few key quotes (my numbering and emphasis):

1. Humidity is normally measured as relative humidity (RH), the percentage of moisture in the air relative to the maximum amount the air can hold at that temperature. If the humidity exceeds 100 per cent, moisture will begin to condense from the air.
2. Two types of hygrometers are most suitable for household use: mechanical hygrometers and electronic hygrometers.
3. You should place hygrometers where the humidity symptoms are most obvious, in the room that you are most concerned about, or where your family spends the most time.
4. You should not place hygrometers near a radiator, a heat register or a chimney, or in any other location where it could be affected by direct heat.
5. A hygrometer does not produce instant results. It may take up to two hours to provide a stable reading in a new location or to adjust to sudden changes in relative humidity.
6. All hygrometers should be calibrated.

The page provides a handy calibration guide as well.

Since hygrometers are inexpensive, you can put them in multiple areas of concern: baby's room, crawlspace, or any room that is giving you humidity trouble (too much or too little). The attentive use of hygrometers, humidifiers, and dehumidifiers can truly result in better comfort and health for your entire family!

--Matt
The AirFlow Comfort Team

Innovative products by AirFlow Technology help you save energy and money while achieving a comfortable room temperature.