Southern Comfort
- It’s about more than keeping you cool -

As temperatures rise so, too, does the frequency of the “it’s not the heat, it’s the humidity” refrain. A variation of this cliché holds true inside the home, and that’s why comfort during Carolina summers is about more than keeping your cool. Indoor humidity—the amount of water vapor in the air—affects not only how comfortable you feel but also impacts air quality which, in turn, can impact your health.

Not too much. Ideally, indoor air should measure between 30 and 50 percent relative humidity, according to the EPA, and never over 60 percent. That’s because high humidity means excessive moisture, leading to mold and other microorganisms as well as structural damage. Signs of high humidity include mold growth in closets, on ceilings, and behind wallpaper; foggy or damp windows; musty odors; and rotting wood. Health concerns include itching, sneezing and coughing as common allergens—think mold and dust mites—thrive in high humidity.

But not too little, either. Low humidity, generally an issue only in winter, presents its own set of problems. Signs of low humidity include static electricity, dry and/ or irritated skin, dry sinuses and increased incidences of flu.

Common cold. Quite often, high humidity is caused by oversized air conditioners; a too-big system “short cycles,” lowering the temperature quickly without running long enough to pull moisture out of the air. Another common cause is improperly sealed ductwork with leaks that decrease your system’s dehumidifying capacity.

Simple fix. Sometimes the solution is as simple as installing a dehumidifier (or humidifier during the winter). Portable units are available but, for increased e f f e c t i v e n e s s , consider a wholehouse dehumidifier— this device improves air quality AND reduces electric bills by allowing you to raise the thermostat a few degrees without sacrificing comfort.

SUMMER SPECIAL: Carolina Heating is offering a 20% discount on whole-house dehumidifiers added to your current equipment and a 50% discount on dehumidifiers installed alongside a qualified, brand-new HVAC system. Call for details; offer ends August 31.

Carolina Heating Service specializes in indoor weather solutions including residential and commercial heating/ air conditioning systems.

Contact us at 864.232.5684 or 866.488.4688 or visit www.carolinaheating.com. It’s about more than keeping your cool