Why is the right humidity so important in winter?
Indoor humidity plays a decisive role for our health, our well-being and the building fabric. In winter, it is cold and we heat our rooms. This can mean that we ventilate less than in other seasons, which can lead to problems:
- Excessive humidity: Promotes mold and mite growth
- Humidity that is too low: irritates mucous membranes and increases susceptibility to colds
The ideal relative humidity in living and working spaces is between 40 % and 60 %. This is the range in which we feel most comfortable and minimizes health risks.
The dangers of excessive humidity in homes
Excessive moisture in homes can have serious consequences, especially the risk of mold growth is increased in winter. This is because mold forms particularly well at high humidity and high temperatures. The level of humidity at which mold starts to form depends on various factors, but the general rule is that the risk increases dramatically at a relative humidity of over 70%. Mold is harmful to health and can trigger allergies and irritate the respiratory tract, among other things. But mold is also harmful to the building fabric and can lead to moisture damage to walls, floors and furniture. House dust mites also love damp environments. They can aggravate allergies and asthma.
The risks of air that is too dry
On the other hand, excessively dry air caused by excessive heating in winter can also be problematic. Excessively dry heating air can irritate the mucous membranes, lead to dry, itchy skin and increase susceptibility to infections. Headaches and tiredness can also be caused by dry heating air.
How to properly regulate humidity in homes in winter
You can take the following measures to keep the humidity in the optimum range:
1. regular ventilation
Ventilate several times a day for 5-10 minutes, especially after showering or cooking. Ventilation helps to remove excess moisture and prevents high humidity. Short bursts of ventilation prevent rooms from cooling down too much. The best way to ensure a draught is to open several windows completely and all doors.
2. heat correctly
Keep all rooms at a constant temperature of at least 16 °C. Avoid large temperature fluctuations, as these promote condensation and can lead to mold growth at certain humidity levels. The temperature should also be kept constant in bedrooms, as cold surfaces cause moisture to condense from the air.
3. measure humidity
Use a hygrometer or, even better, a smart air measuring device such as the air-Q to continuously monitor the humidity. This allows you to recognize at an early stage when there is a risk of mould and counteract it. The modern air quality sensors monitor the room air and continuously measure various air parameters, including particulateshumidity, CO₂ content and VOCs.
Picture of the air-Q and store button (Buy now)
The data collected in real time is analyzed. This allows critical values and patterns to be identified that promote the risk of mould or poor air quality. If the stored limit values for these air parameters are exceeded, the air measuring device automatically sends warnings, e.g. via app, push message or on the device itself via the color light of the LED indicators. This tells you when it is time to replace the air and you can react before problems arise.
4. use a dehumidifier
If humidity levels are persistently high or rooms are difficult to ventilate, a dehumidifier can help to reduce moisture and control room humidity with regard to mold growth. Coupled with a smart home system such as the air-Q, you can activate the appliance only when required and save energy.
5. use a humidifier
If the air is too dry, especially in the bedroom, a humidifier can help. This is particularly important if you suffer from symptoms of dry heating air. Houseplants can also help.
6. smart home for an optimal indoor climate
Modern technology such as the air-Q monitors the air quality and warns you in good time if the humidity falls outside the optimum range. This allows you to act proactively and avoid mold growth or air that is too dry.
Avoid common mistakes in indoor climate control
To ensure an optimum indoor climate, you should avoid the following common mistakes:
- Permanently tilted windows instead of shock ventilation
- Uneven heating of the rooms
- Drying laundry in the home without sufficient ventilation
- Neglect of regular humidity measurements
- Place furniture directly against external walls, which impedes air circulation
- Ignoring condensation on windows or walls
- Excessive use of humidifiers
- Place water-loving & large-leaved plants in damp rooms
- Neglecting the maintenance of ventilation systems or air conditioning units
By avoiding these mistakes, you can create a healthy and balanced indoor climate and effectively prevent both mold growth and excessively dry air.
How to ensure optimum humidity in homes in winter
Regulating the humidity indoors is crucial for a healthy indoor climate, especially in winter. Through regular ventilation, appropriate heating and the use of measuring devices such as the air-Q, you can always keep the humidity in the optimum range. This not only creates a pleasant indoor climate, but also protects your health, your furniture and the building fabric from the negative effects of excessively humid or dry air.
