4 Reasons for Inaccurate Humidity Control Readings

Written by Carol S.
on Dec 02, 2010

To ensure our content is always up-to-date with current information, best practices, and professional advice, articles are routinely reviewed by industry experts with years of hands-on experience.

Reviewed by
H.R. Helm
on May 11, 2022

To keep your home comfortably warm or cool, humidity control is a key factor. Inaccurate humidity control readings can stem from many sources. Learn about the 4 top reasons for inaccurate humidity control readings below.

Check Indoor Humidity with a Hygrometer

Use a hygrometer to check air humidity in rooms away from the kitchen and bathroom. The average humidity reading you obtain should be below 55 percent.

1. Bathing

Hot steamy showers and bubbly baths are the prime causes of high humidity. Make sure your bathroom exhaust fan works correctly and keep the exhaust fan grate clean so moisture can exit.

2. Cooking

Cooking in big pots of boiling water adds moisture to the heated air above the stove top. Install a kitchen exhaust fan, and clean the exit pipe monthly, so heat and moisture can escape.

3. Aquariums

A 20-gallon aquarium will add about a gallon of water monthly to the air. Install a ceiling fan in the aquarium room, and top off the tank with fresh or salt water regularly.

4. Poor Insulation

A poorly insulated home will allow outdoor humidity to enter. Insulate both the attic and the basement of your home to prevent ground and air humidity from seeping into the house. Install double-paned Low-E windows. They provide a warmer glass surface, preventing condensation.