Is your home uncomfortably humid, feeling more like a tropical rainforest than a relaxing living space? You’re not alone. Many homeowners, particularly during the warmer months, grapple with the problem of high humidity. This heavy, moist air doesn’t just feel unpleasant; it can also lead to serious issues such as mold and mildew growth, compromised indoor air quality, and even structural damage from wood rot.
So, Why Is My House So Humid? And more importantly, what can be done to solve this uncomfortable and potentially unhealthy problem?
The good news is that addressing home humidity is often more straightforward than you might think. While there can be various contributing factors, the core issues usually boil down to two key areas. Fortunately, there’s a practical two-step approach that can significantly reduce humidity levels in your home, creating a more comfortable and healthy environment throughout the year. Depending on your location, you might even be eligible for energy-efficient home upgrades with little to no upfront cost. Check your eligibility here to see if you qualify for these upgrades.
This guide will help you understand:
Are you ready to finally enjoy a comfortable home, free from that sticky, muggy feeling? Let’s dive into understanding and fixing your home humidity problem.
Discover if you can get humidity-reducing home upgrades with no upfront costs if your home qualifies.
Decoding the Causes of High Humidity in Your House
While a deep dive into the science of humidity can reveal numerous technical reasons for damp indoor air, the practical causes of high humidity in a house are generally concentrated in a couple of key areas.
Online searches might lead you to a long list of potential culprits for high indoor humidity. Obvious factors like hot, humid outdoor weather can certainly play a role, contributing to a stuffy house with heavy, sticky air.
Moisture can also originate from the ground, especially if your home is located near bodies of water like lakes or rivers. Everyday activities within your home, such as cooking, showering, and using appliances, also contribute to indoor moisture levels.
The list of potential moisture sources can seem endless. However, dwelling on an extensive list of less impactful causes isn’t usually the most effective approach to troubleshooting. You’re likely already aware of the discomfort of high humidity, which is why you’re seeking solutions.
Let’s focus on the two primary underlying reasons why your house feels excessively humid:
- Outside Air Intrusion: Humid outside air is entering your home.
- Inefficient HVAC System: Your air conditioning or HVAC system isn’t effectively removing excess moisture as it should.
Depending on your location, Sealed offers home upgrades that directly address these issues, often with no upfront cost for eligible homeowners.
Learn more about humidity solutions.
Reason 1: Your House Isn’t Effectively Blocking Outside Air
One of the fundamental roles of a house is to act as a barrier against the elements, keeping the external environment outside. If your home feels consistently humid, it’s highly probable that its building envelope is compromised.
What exactly is a building envelope? It’s essentially the barrier—also known as the thermal barrier or thermal envelope—that separates the controlled indoor environment of your house from the outside world.
Think of it like a protective shell around your home. If this shell has breaches or weaknesses—whether due to initial poor construction or deterioration over time—humid air can infiltrate your house, leading to discomfort.
Unfortunately, many homes have significant leaks and gaps in their thermal boundary. Energy Star reports that air leaks alone can account for a staggering 25-40% of a home’s energy waste (1).
An inadequate thermal boundary allows excessive humid air to enter your home from the outside, creating persistent discomfort.
Identifying Thermal Envelope Issues as a Humidity Cause
Air leaks are prevalent in many homes across the US. If your home hasn’t undergone professional air sealing, there’s a strong likelihood that these gaps and seams are a major contributor to your humidity problems, particularly if you own an older house.
To confirm if your thermal envelope is contributing to your humidity issues, a simple DIY air leak detection test can provide valuable insights.
“Our master bedroom now maintains the same comfortable temperature as the rest of the house…. We are extremely satisfied with our experience with Sealed and highly recommend their services.”
—Peter V., Sealed customer
Reason 2: Your HVAC System Isn’t Performing Adequately
This is often a primary culprit. If your home feels persistently like a jungle, it’s crucial to evaluate whether your HVAC system is effectively dehumidifying your house.
An aging or outdated air conditioning system is likely struggling to maintain a cool and dry indoor environment. However, age isn’t the only factor.
An improperly sized AC unit can also exacerbate humidity issues. For instance, an oversized air conditioner might cool the air too rapidly without adequately removing moisture.
There are various ways an AC system can underperform. In all cases, insufficient HVAC capacity leads to poor home ventilation, resulting in a damp, stuffy, and unpleasant home.
Ready to eliminate humidity in your home? See if you qualify for expert-led solutions at no upfront cost.
Determining if Your HVAC is Contributing to Humidity
Assessing your HVAC’s role in humidity problems is relatively straightforward. A properly functioning and appropriately sized AC system should create a cool and fresh feeling in your home.
If your air conditioning is well-maintained and running, yet your home remains hot and humid, it strongly suggests that your AC unit is not adequately handling the dehumidification load.
Another indicator to watch for is short cycling. This occurs when your AC system frequently turns on and off in short bursts. Short cycling often indicates that your AC unit is too large for your space, causing it to cool the air too quickly and preventing sufficient dehumidification.
Suspect your HVAC is the problem? Contact us for expert evaluation.
These are the two main reasons behind excessive humidity in homes. Now, let’s move on to the solutions—how to permanently resolve these issues.
Permanent Solutions to Lower Humidity in Your House
Step 1: Invest in an HVAC System Designed for Humidity Control
The most effective long-term solution for reducing home humidity is upgrading your HVAC and air conditioning system to a model that is specifically designed for your home’s needs and capable of managing humid air effectively.
Explore HVAC upgrade options with no upfront costs.
While it may be tempting to use portable dehumidifiers as a quick fix, especially for damp basements, they often fall short as a comprehensive solution.
Maintaining portable dehumidifiers can be cumbersome, and removing mold and mildew buildup from units that have been in operation for extended periods can be nearly impossible.
Relying solely on portable dehumidifiers can increase your electricity bills without addressing the underlying issue of inadequate ventilation. This ventilation problem will eventually need to be resolved, regardless of dehumidifier use, particularly if you’re concerned about preventing mold and mildew growth throughout your home.
Furthermore, cleaning portable dehumidifiers is a tedious task. Removing mold and mildew from units that have been running for a while can be extremely difficult.
While replacing your entire air conditioning system might seem like a major undertaking, there are compelling reasons to consider it:
- Effective Problem Resolution: A well-designed HVAC system tackles the root cause of humidity problems.
- Energy Efficiency: Upgrading to a properly sized and efficient HVAC system is significantly more energy-efficient than running multiple portable appliances alongside an outdated HVAC system.
- Long-Term Value: Addressing the core ventilation issue offers better long-term value for your money, time, and peace of mind. Piecemeal solutions without tackling the underlying ventilation problems can lead to a cycle of continuous expenses and frustrations.
- Potential Cost Savings: Eligible homeowners can have a new HVAC system installed by professionals with minimal to no upfront costs. Check your eligibility here—it’s quick and easy.
The key question then becomes: What type of HVAC system is most effective at maintaining a cool and dry home environment?
Research points to a clear winner: air-source heat pumps.
The Superior HVAC Choice for Humid Climates: Air-Source Heat Pumps
If you’re unfamiliar with heat pumps, they represent a more advanced and intelligent approach to both cooling and dehumidifying your home—as well as heating it.
Learn more about the dehumidifying advantages of heat pumps.
Despite their name, heat pumps don’t generate heat; instead, they operate by transferring heat energy. During winter, they extract heat from the outside air and move it indoors. In summer, they reverse this process, removing heat from your home and transferring it outside.
Beyond cooling, heat pumps also excel at removing moisture from the air, making them ideal for homes in humid regions.
For a detailed comparison, explore Heat pump vs AC. You can also find out how to get a heat pump installed with no upfront cost.
Heat pumps are also incredibly energy-efficient, significantly reducing energy waste. Upgrading to a heat pump is a leading strategy for minimizing energy waste in your home and reducing your carbon footprint (explore more ways to reduce your carbon footprint at home here).
Essentially, heat pumps are the superheroes of the HVAC world—or as we like to call them, the Tesla of HVAC.
Find out if you qualify for a heat pump with zero upfront cost.
Heat pumps offer comprehensive climate control, providing heating, air conditioning, dehumidification, and air filtration. They are versatile in installation, with models available for both ducted and ductless systems. They operate quietly, are odorless, and utilize clean, non-combustible energy. Furthermore, heat pumps deliver consistent heating and cooling, ensuring uniform comfort throughout your home. Learn more in The Ultimate Guide to Heat Pumps.
In summary: You’ll likely find a heat pump to be a significant improvement over your old air conditioning system. Customer feedback on heat pump installations is overwhelmingly positive.
A 2022 report by the European Environmental Bureau and CoolProducts indicates that 81% of people report improved home comfort after installing renewable heating systems like heat pumps.
Heat pumps enhance home comfort and represent the best HVAC technology currently available. If and when superior HVAC technology emerges, we’ll be sure to share the news.
Even better, if your home qualifies, you may be eligible for a new heat pump system with no or minimal upfront cost. Determine your home’s eligibility now.
While a better HVAC system is crucial for humidity reduction, maximizing its effectiveness requires ensuring that the conditioned air stays inside your house. Let’s explore Step 2.
Step 2: Keep Humid Air Out – Where It Belongs
The second vital step in reducing home humidity is minimizing the infiltration of hot, humid outside air.
How is this achieved?
Professional Home Air Sealing
Recall the gaps and leaks in your home’s thermal envelope? Professional air sealing involves meticulously sealing these cracks and openings that facilitate air exchange with the outside.
This process effectively prevents humid outdoor air from entering your home and keeps cooled, filtered, and conditioned air inside.
(Learn more about air sealing or explore air sealing upgrades with zero upfront cost.)
25–40% of the energy used to maintain home comfort is lost due to air leaks.
Ensure Adequate Insulation
Insulation is a key component of your home’s thermal envelope. Properly functioning insulation minimizes air exchange.
However, if your home’s insulation is old, insufficient, or absent in critical areas like the attic or foundation, its ability to maintain a cool, dry indoor environment is severely compromised. Attic insulation and foundation insulation are particularly important.
In short, upgrading or adding insulation can be an effective strategy for humidity reduction. However, insulation upgrades aren’t always the optimal solution. Consulting with an expert is crucial for making informed decisions. Contact an expert for guidance.
If you decide to upgrade your insulation, here are the primary types to consider:
- Fiberglass Insulation: A common and readily available insulation type made from glass fibers. While widely used, it may not be suitable for all situations and is susceptible to moisture issues.
- Spray Foam Insulation: Made from polyurethane, spray foam expands to fill gaps and cracks upon application. It offers excellent moisture resistance and effectively blocks humidity. It’s particularly effective for sealing foundation areas and rim joists.
- Cellulose Insulation: Made from recycled materials, cellulose insulation has a negative carbon footprint. It can absorb moisture in certain applications, requiring professional assessment to determine its suitability for your home.
If you’re unsure about the best insulation type for your home, we recommend seeking expert advice.
You’ve reached the essential two-step process for achieving a comfortable home environment. While conceptually simple, these steps require expertise and experience to implement effectively.
Professional design and installation are crucial for creating a home climate system that ensures long-term comfort.
Fortunately, Sealed provides easy access to expert assistance. We handle the complexities, making the process seamless for homeowners.
Ready to Say Goodbye to Humid House Discomfort?
Begin with our quick questionnaire. If your home qualifies, you could receive a heat pump, insulation upgrades, and air sealing with no upfront costs.
(Yes, you read that correctly!)
Check Your Eligibility Now
Do you still have questions about high humidity in your house? Find answers in our FAQs below.
Frequently Asked Questions About Humid Houses
Browse the questions below or use the links to jump directly to your area of interest.
What are the primary causes of high humidity in a house?
High humidity in homes is mainly caused by poor ventilation, which disrupts proper air circulation, leading to stagnant and humid indoor air. Another major factor is excessive air exchange with the outside. Inadequate air sealing and insulation allow outside air to infiltrate the home, creating discomfort in both warm and cold climates and across different seasons.
Tired of a humid house? Get expert help for a solution at no upfront cost if you qualify.
What are the common symptoms of high humidity in a home?
Here are some typical signs of high indoor humidity:
- A moist, muggy feeling inside your home.
- Mold and mildew growth within the house.
- Water stains in moisture-prone areas like bathrooms, indicating persistent humidity.
- Frequent feelings of being hot and sweaty indoors.
- Nasal congestion.
- Condensation buildup on the inside of windows.
These symptoms are unpleasant, but strategic home upgrades can permanently resolve the issue.
Your home shouldn’t be humid. See if you qualify for expert solutions at no upfront cost.
How can I effectively lower humidity in my house?
For long-term humidity reduction, upgrading your HVAC system is paramount to ensure it can handle your home’s air conditioning and dehumidification requirements. While portable dehumidifiers offer temporary relief, they don’t address the root cause if your AC system is underperforming. (Learn more about HVAC and humidity here.)
Improving your home’s sealing to keep conditioned air inside is another crucial step. Air sealing and insulation upgrades are effective methods. Spray foam and fiberglass insulation can help prevent humidity infiltration, but proper sealing of your home’s structure is essential to block moist air entry.
Skip DIY hassles and get expert help with no upfront costs, including eligible rebates. Learn how.
What is an ideal humidity level for my house?
A comfortable humidity range for most people is between 30% and 50% (2). However, personal preferences and climate conditions can influence this. Drier climates may tolerate slightly lower humidity, while humid climates might necessitate lower humidity levels for comfort.
For a more in-depth understanding and guidance on measuring humidity levels, read What should the humidity be in my house?
Uncontrolled high humidity can lead to problems like mold growth and window condensation, potentially causing property damage and health issues like skin irritation and respiratory problems.
Controlling humidity in your home is essential for both comfort and health.
Address home ventilation and humidity issues with no upfront costs and eligible rebates if you qualify.
What should the humidity level be in a house during summer?
According to Energy Star, the optimal humidity range for summer comfort is between 30% and 50% (3). Outdoor humidity levels can be significantly higher. For example, Chicago’s average outdoor humidity is around 70% (4), and New York City averages about 71% (5).
How can I effectively control humidity?
You have short-term and long-term options for humidity control.
Short-term methods include portable air conditioners or dehumidifiers. These can effectively lower humidity but only while operating. Humidity levels will rise again once they are turned off. Dehumidifiers also require regular emptying of water reservoirs.
The long-term solution involves upgrading your HVAC system along with air sealing and insulation improvements. While this is a larger investment, it offers lasting comfort and energy savings. A properly sized and installed HVAC system, combined with effective home sealing and insulation, maintains ideal temperature and humidity year-round.
See if you qualify for HVAC upgrades with minimal or no upfront cost.
How do I permanently fix high humidity in my house?
Short-term solutions like portable dehumidifiers or AC units only mask the problem. The permanent solution involves upgrading your HVAC system and weatherizing your home.
Explore air sealing and insulation upgrades with no upfront costs and eligible rebates. Discover how.
Sealed: Your Partner in Solving Home Humidity Issues
With Sealed, tolerating a humid house is unnecessary. Eligible homeowners can access comprehensive home upgrade plans from experienced climate control and home air circulation experts.
Sealed offers customized solutions tailored to your home’s specific needs, using your preferred materials, to ensure optimal comfort, even on the most humid days.
We provide end-to-end service, from custom plan development to expert contractor selection and quality workmanship. Furthermore, eligible homes receive the renowned Sealed energy-savings guarantee.
Start with our brief 2-minute questionnaire to explore your options.
Begin the Quiz
Curious About Your Energy Savings Potential?
High humidity is a significant indicator of energy waste. Use our home energy usage calculator to identify major energy-saving opportunities in your home.
Try our Home Energy Usage Calculator now.
