Miami is one of the beautiful places in the world with palm trees, gorgeous beaches, and amazing architecture that keeps on drawing local and international visitors. There are lots of entertainment joints and open air restaurants where you can just relax and have fun as a family. That being said, one of the challenges residents here including homeowners face is the high humidity. The State Climate office for Florida is often flooded with questions and complaints from people affected by humidity.
Miami is definitely one of the most humid cities in the United States mainly due to the fact that it is surrounded by the warm Gulf of Mexico as well as the Atlantic Ocean. Also, Miami has a nearly tropical climate which doesn’t help things much. The average dew point temperature in Miami is greater than 60% with summers being the most affected. Coastal areas also tend to be more humid compared to inland areas because of the warm water bodies and the sea breeze.
Problems of Improper Humidity Levels
Ideal humidity levels in summer should be less than 60% while in winter they should be between 25 and 40%. Bedrooms require approximately 50% relative humidity if they are to be sufficiently moist to create a better sleeping environment. Among the problems caused by high humidity levels in Miami include:
Personal Discomfort
This is one of the immediate effects of runaway humidity. When temperatures are too hot and humid, the human body becomes less efficient in releasing heat and as a result people sweat. This creates discomfort and even may cause dehydration.
Growth of Mold and Mildew
Humid temperatures form a breeding ground for mildew and mold which are some of the frontline allergens and indoor pollutants. They have been credited with various health complications. Dust mites also thrive in high humid areas and they are the biggest adversaries for asthmatic people.
Compromises Structural Integrity
Humidity can easily seep into every nook and cranny of your house including its foundations which means the structural integrity of your home can be greatly affected. Also, mold and mildew tend to spread on walls which cause peeling of paint and even wet stains.
Obtaining the Appropriate Moisture Level
As seen above, high levels of humidity can be a nuisance and can have a huge impact on your indoor air quality. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) encourages homeowners and families to maintain proper humidity levels as a way of enhancing their air quality. Among the solutions to addressing the humidity challenge includes:
Installing Dehumidifiers
For comfort, humidity levels should be in the range of 45 to 50%. A whole-house dehumidifier can help put humidity under control. There are various types of dehumidifiers including desiccant dehumidifiers, refrigerant dehumidifiers, and peltier dehumidifiers for small areas including closets.
Ventilation
Having a ventilation system or exhaust fans installed can help dry your indoor air particularly in areas such as the bathroom where moisture tends to hang on for longer periods. Running your AC is effective in the ventilation process.
Structural Measures
There are certain things you can adjust within your home to help you control humidity. For instance, consider replacing your carpet as most of them retain moisture, wrap insulation on your pipes, and treat your foundation with hydroclay which helps in absorbing water.
Do not underestimate the value of proper humidity levels in Miami. Take control of your indoor space today by contacting a professional to evaluate your indoor conditions and advise you accordingly.