Encyclopedia

of Home Improvements

*Controling Humidity For More Efficient* *Energy Use*

By controlling humidity levels, you can reduce energy costs associated with heating and cooling the home. By adding moisture to the home's indoor environment, you can lower the thermostat by a few degrees and still remain comfortably warm in the winter. In summer, remove moisture from the environment, and you will feel cooler.

Here's how:

1. Add Humidifier

How you add or reduce moisture levels depends on the type of heating and cooling systems you have. Most residential homes are heated by either a boiler and radiator system or by oil or gas-fired, forced-air furnace. To add humidity with a forced-air furnace, a humidifier is installed on the supply side of the ductwork. The humidifier must be installed in an accessible area for ease of maintenance and should not be located directly above the furnace where water vapors and mists could lead to rusting.

2. In-Room

An in-room humidifier can be used with either system. Some humidifiers work by evaporation, some by steam. A third variety, sonic humidifiers, uses ultrasonic vibrations to create water droplets. With a sonic humidifier, use distilled water or use a demineralization cartridge. These cartridges filter minerals from the water and prevent the minerals from getting into the air as dust.

3. Stay Cool

To lower humidity, use the home's air conditioner or a separate dehumidifier centrally located in a room or in the basement or crawlspace. If the air conditioner cools the home too quickly you may not remove enough moisture to be comfortable. If you have any questions concerning the size and adequacy of the cooling system, have the unit checked by a qualified heating, venting, and air conditioning technician.

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