WHAT IS % RH?
Relative humidity, often referred to as RH. This is the measure by which
moisture in air is measured. It is represented by a percentage value
between 0 and 100%, where the meaning of 100% RH is that the air
cannot hold any more water at that temperature. A value of 25%RH would
be typical of that found in a desert. Generally the 'ideal' value for enclosed
living spaces is accepted to be 50% although in reality a humidity variance
between 40 and 60%RH is perfectly acceptable.
When is Humidity a Problem?
We need humidity for our comfort and health. Too much or too little humidity
can produce a host of difficulties for householders (see Table 1). Some of
the problems are no more than nuisances; others could be far more serious.
They often occur during the winter season when our windows are closed,
washing is left in the house to dry and indoor air circulation and ventilation
are reduced.
Table 1 Humidity problems
Typical
symptoms
Too much humidity
•
Condensation
windows
•
Wet stains on walls
and ceilings
•
Moldy walls
•
Musty smells
•
Allergic reactions
Too little humidity
•
on
Chapped skin and lips
•
Scratchy
throat
•
Breathing problems
•
Static electric shocks
5
nose
and