Weather and Your Home: Indoor Humidity
Weather and Your Home: Indoor Humidity
How Much Humidity Should Your Home Have?
Humidity levels above 20 percent help prevent dry, sore throats and should make the air feel warmer and more comfortable. Moist air will also eliminate static electricity in the house and help to protect plants and preserve your furniture.
On the other hand, humidity levels over 40 percent can cause frosting and fogging of windows, staining of walls and ceilings, peeling paint, mould growth and odours. When relative humidity is over 50 percent, airborne diseases become more difficult to control.
Condensation on your windows can provide a good indication of the relative humidity. You may, however, want to install a humidity sensor or humidistat to keep more accurate measurements on humidity levels.
Thermostat Setting: To save energy and money in the winter, set your thermostat to the lowest temperature that's comfortable for you. Remember: for every 1 degree C (2°F) you lower the thermostat, you save 2 percent on your heating bill.
Other Recommended Indoor Settings
| Activity | Recommended Thermostat Setting |
| Sitting, reading or watching TV | 21 degree C (70°F) |
| Working around the house | 20 degree C (68°F) |
| Sleeping | 18 degree C (64°F) |
| Out for the day or on vacation | 16 degree C (60°F) |
| Basement (if not used often) | 16 degree C (60°F) |
Air Conditioner Setting: Set the thermostat at the highest temperature setting for occupant comfort (25.5°C is usually recommended). If the space is unoccupied for more than four hours, the thermostat should be set at about 28°C. Shut off the cooling system when the house will be unoccupied for more than 24 hours.
Courtesy of Natural Resources Canada Office of Energy Efficiency
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