Indoor humidity changes according to the weather and season. It is also affected by the location and structure of your home, as well as certain activities carried out indoors. When you move into a new place, everything might seem fine at the beginning until the physical effects of high indoor humidity arise. Recognising the following signs will help you decide whether to get a dehumidifier as a preventive measure against issues that can be caused by high indoor humidity.
Condensation on the walls or windows
Just like how water droplets form on a cold glass of beer, water droplets can similarly form on your walls and windows when the air indoors is very humid. If left unattended, the moisture will eventually cause wooden furnishing to rot, wallpapers to peel off, and wall paint to discolour.
High humidity environments also encourage the growth of mould which can cause health issues and affect the aesthetic of your living space.
Musty smell or visible mould
A musty smell is the first sign of mould growth before the mould is visible to our naked eyes. While it is not possible to prevent the spread of mould spores into your home, you can prevent them from growing by removing the moisture that they need to germinate.
Mould infested furnishing or walls are usually unsalvageable and replacements have to be made. Noticing a musty smell indoors would be a sign that it is time to intervene before things get out of hand.
Allergic reactions
Even though dehumidifiers do not filter out allergens in the air the way air purifiers would work, they help eliminate some common triggers of allergic reactions, such as mould, mildew, and dust mites, by creating an environment that does not encourage the growth of the aforementioned irritants.
Besides, high humidity can cause stuffy air that is uncomfortable to breathe in. The National Asthma Council of Australia recommends an ideal relative humidity of between 30-60% for indoor environments to live comfortably in.
If you are unsure whether your allergic reactions are caused by high indoor humidity, it is recommended that you seek advice from medical professionals.
Poor ventilation
For confined spaces like bathrooms and basements, poor ventilation can lead to damp indoor environments due to accumulated moisture in the air that has nowhere to go. If the installation of a ventilation system is not possible, getting a dehumidifier is your best bet to get rid of excessive moisture trapped in confined spaces.
Drying clothes indoors
Drying clothes indoors often leads to an accumulation of water vapour in the space. If it takes too long for the clothes to dry, you might notice a damp smell as the moisture is unable to escape. A dehumidifier can definitely help speed up clothes drying as it efficiently removes the moisture from the air, facilitating the evaporation of water from clothes.
With many dehumidifier brands and models in the Australian market, understanding your needs and the specifications of different dehumidifier types allows you to make an informed decision when it comes to choosing a suitable dehumidifier for your home. Much like other indoor air quality issues, high humidity can be solved efficiently with a good dehumidifier. In this case, prevention is always better than cure.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general reference only. Please seek advice from professionals according to your needs.
Ionmax Australia
Founded in 2003, Ionmax Australia has received numerous awards and accolades for its innovative products and commitment to customer satisfaction. Ionmax dehumidifiers and air purifiers have been recognised for their effectiveness in reducing indoor air pollutants and improving air quality. The company is committed to researching and developing new and improved products that meet the needs and expectations of its customers, making it a trusted name in households across Australia and beyond.
