A hygrometer is an affordable HVAC-approved tool that can save your home from condensation, mold, and high-energy bills

High humidity can wreak havoc in a house. From mold and mildew to damp smells and wacky energy bills, it really is a homeowner's worst enemy.

But how do you know you have high humidity before these problems start to arise? A hydrometer, HVAC experts claim.

These simple tools measure the moisture levels across your home to alert you to dangerous humidity levels before mold starts growing on the walls. Here’s why the experts praise them as household saviors, and how they help ensure the best humidity levels for a home year-round.

What is a hygrometer?

George Crew, general contractor and painter with over 30 years of experience, owner of Chicago Construction Crew explains, ‘This small device measures humidity, the amount of water vapor suspended in the air. Hygrometers use different methods to measure humidity. Some use materials that change size or weight as they absorb moisture, while others rely on electrical signals or the temperature at which water vapor forms.

‘For example, an analog hygrometer could have a human hair that expands and adapts to changes in humidity. Digital hygrometers use sensors to detect changes in resistance or capacitance when humidity levels change. Higher-end models may use a frosted mirror to monitor dew point temperature.'

‘Regardless of technology, all hygrometers provide a percentage reading that indicates the amount of water vapor present compared to the maximum amount of water vapor the air can hold at a given temperature. This is called relative humidity.’

A hydrometer can alert you to both high and low humidity, helping to explain why your house feels so dry, so you can remedy the situation quickly before it gets worse.

Prices correct at time of publication.

Why every home should have a hygrometer

George explains that there are several reasons why someone might want to consider hydrometers for their home. Reducing your home’s humidity to prevent mold is just one of them.

‘Hygrometers are useful in many places, from the living room to the greenhouse. Place one somewhere in your home to monitor the humidity in your home – you might want one for a bedroom, a bathroom, or another moisture problem.

‘They are generally considered a smart-home must-have, and many up-to-date properties now have built-in hygrometers [also known as humidistats] that allow you to monitor the humidity with your smartphone,’ he adds. ‘Standalone hygrometers are also widely available and inexpensive, making it easy to monitor the humidity levels in your environment.

• ‘Comfort – Too much or too little humidity can make a room uncomfortable, dry, or stuffy, affecting your well-being and health. Of course, a hydrometer doesn’t do anything to fix the humidity. For that, you will need to treat the cause of the imbalance (especially if high humidity is caused by a water leak), and then use the best dehumidifier (to reduce your home’s humidity) or a humidifier, depending on if your air is dry or damp, to rebalance your home.
• Health – Generally speaking, it is as bad to have low humidity in your house as it is high humidity. Dry air can irritate your eyes, nose, throat, and skin, while too much heat can cause mold and mildew to grow, which can trigger allergies and asthma. Ignoring high humidity is one of the worst habits that increases your risk of mold in your home.
• Home Protection – Inconsistencies in indoor humidity can lead to wood rot, cracking, and rust over time. Keeping the humidity in the ideal 30-50% range will help keep your home cool.
• Energy efficiency – A balanced temperature allows you to stay comfortable at a lower temperature, which can cut energy bills and reduce air conditioning costs in the summer.’

The only downside to hygrometers is the fact they don’t tell the cause of the high or low humidity in your home – this will come down to some detective work unless there is an obvious cause, such as cooking or showering in a poorly ventilated room, or wet/humid outdoor conditions with a poorly insulated home. Nevertheless, ignoring it will compromise your home’s air quality, so it’s well worth the investment.