Combat Summer Humidity in the Home

After a lot of rain followed by heat and humidity, it’s no surprise if your house starts to feel a little swampy. Summer weather may be great for your garden, but it can spell trouble for your home if humidity isn’t kept in check.

While we can’t control what’s happening outside, the real concern is what that sticky air is doing inside, particularly in basements, attics, and anywhere else moisture loves to settle. That moisture can lead to mold, mildew, musty smells, and even damage to your home’s structure over time.

A lot of folks assume their air conditioner has them covered, but the truth is, while it cools the air, its dehumidifying powers are more of a side effect than a solution. Air conditioners recycle and chill indoor air, which helps a little with moisture, but if humidity is high, they’ll struggle to keep your home comfortable and dry.

That’s where a dehumidifier comes in. Unlike an AC unit, a dehumidifier’s sole job is to pull excess moisture from the air and collect it in a tank. If you’ve ever felt that damp, clammy vibe in your basement, you’re not imagining things, and a dehumidifier can make a big difference. In fact, starting in the basement is a smart move, since that’s usually the most humid part of the house.

Want to know how humid your house really is? A $5 humidity gauge from the hardware store will tell you. Ideally, your indoor humidity should be under 50%. If it’s higher, consider running a dehumidifier in the most-used parts of your home, especially on those muggy days when it feels like you’re living inside a wet sponge.

Bonus: a dehumidifier doesn’t just make the air feel more comfortable. It also helps prevent mold growth, eliminates musty odors, and keeps old pipes from sweating. And here’s a neat trick, reuse the water collected in the tank to hydrate your plants. They won’t complain.

Dehumidifiers come in different sizes, usually 25, 30, or 40-pint models. A 25-pint unit generally works well for a 1,000-square-foot space, making it a good fit for most basements or mid-sized rooms.

Worried about the energy bill? Don’t be. Dehumidifiers typically use about half the electricity of an AC unit. To save energy, only run the unit when humidity spikes (above 50%), and keep windows and doors closed while it’s on. Just don’t run it all night in the bedroom - they can dry out the air a bit too much while you sleep.

And don’t forget maintenance. Dehumidifiers can get clogged with dust and debris, which blocks airflow and could even spread mold if left unchecked. A quick wipe-down of the filter with a damp cloth and a spritz of all-purpose cleaner will keep things running smoothly.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Insulation is a Year Round Investment

As summer heat peaks, many homeowners are grateful for the cool comfort provided by their air conditioning. However, running the A/C non-stop can lead to high energy bills, especially if your home isn’t properly insulated.

While most people associate insulation with winter, it’s just as beneficial during the summer. Remember from school science class how heat rises? This means that your top floor and attic are naturally warmer than the lower floors. Without insulation, your attic can become much hotter than the outdoor temperature. If you touch your ceiling and it feels warm, imagine how hot it is above it.

Insufficient insulation forces your air conditioning units to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. Whether you have central air or window units, they are straining to cool your home, which spikes your energy costs.

Improving your home’s insulation can make a significant difference. The attic is a prime area for insulation upgrades due to its large space and extreme temperature variations. Although it’s often overlooked because we don’t spend much time there, adding insulation in the attic can be a cost-effective home improvement. Options include blowing loose fiberglass under the floor or laying batts between the floor joists. The best choice depends on your home’s size, attic clearance, and usage. A well-insulated attic not only reduces energy costs but also increases your home’s resale value.

In addition to the attic, sealing gaps around windows and doors helps keep cool air inside. Check your door sweeps and replace them if necessary, and use caulk or sealing tape on windows. This practice will benefit you now and in the winter when you’re trying to retain warm air.

For those with window A/C units, insulating around them is crucial. Use flexible foam to create a good seal at the top and bottom of the unit. Ensure the side curtains are tight-fitting and securely anchored. Without proper insulation, your window A/C unit isn’t operating at full efficiency since much of the cool air escapes outside. Taking these extra steps ensures your A/C works effectively.

Another area to consider is your home’s walls. If your house is older, it may not have adequate wall insulation. Adding insulation to your walls can prevent heat transfer, keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. There are several methods for insulating walls, such as injecting foam insulation or using blown-in cellulose. These options can be a bit more invasive but are worth the investment for the long-term comfort and efficiency of your home.

Additionally, consider insulating your floors, especially if you have a basement or crawl space. Insulating these areas can reduce heat loss and prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew issues. Foam board or rigid foam insulation works well for this purpose and can be installed relatively easily.

Don’t forget about your ductwork. If your home has central air conditioning, ensuring your ducts are well-insulated can prevent energy loss as the cool air travels from the unit to various parts of your home. Leaky or uninsulated ducts can lose up to 30% of the cooling energy, making your system work harder and increasing your energy bills. Sealing and insulating your ducts can improve efficiency and enhance overall comfort.

Lastly, consider the benefits of radiant barriers. These are reflective materials installed in attics to reduce heat gain during the summer. Radiant barriers work by reflecting radiant heat away from your home, helping to keep indoor temperatures down. This is particularly beneficial in hot climates where the sun’s intensity can significantly impact indoor comfort.

Investing in insulation is a smart move for homeowners looking to improve comfort and reduce energy bills year-round. By addressing key areas like the attic, windows, doors, walls, floors, and ductwork, you can create a more energy-efficient home that stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter. The initial investment in insulation will pay off through lower energy costs and increased home value.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Tackling Summer Window Condensation

You’ve probably noticed those pesky water droplets forming on your windows as summer humidity rises. It’s not just an eyesore—it can also be a sign of underlying issues within the home. 

Condensation occurs when warm, humid air comes into contact with a cooler surface—like your window glass. During summer, the air inside your home is usually cooler (thanks to your trusty air conditioner) while the air outside is hot and humid. This temperature difference causes moisture to condense on the cooler inside surface of your windows. Here are a few reasons why you might see more condensation:

1. High Humidity Levels: Summer air can hold a lot more moisture, especially in places like Connecticut where it's humid in the summer and dry in the winter.

2. Poor Ventilation: Without proper airflow, moisture has nowhere to go, leading to higher humidity inside your home.

3. Inefficient Windows: Older or single-pane windows might not provide the best insulation, causing the inside surface of the glass to get cool enough for condensation to form.

Why is condensation a problem? While a bit of condensation might seem harmless, it can actually lead to a few issues, such as:

• Mold and Mildew: Excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can damage your home and harm your health.

• Damage to Windows and Frames: Prolonged exposure to moisture can warp or rot wooden frames, damage seals, and reduce the lifespan of your windows.

• Reduced Visibility: Condensation can make it difficult to see clearly through your windows, affecting your view and natural light.

Now that we know what’s causing the problem, let’s dive into some solutions. Here’s how you can reduce and even prevent condensation on your windows:

1. Improve Ventilation: Make sure your home has good airflow. Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms, and consider a dehumidifier if humidity is a persistent problem. Opening windows when it’s not too humid outside can also help.

2. Upgrade Your Windows: If you’re still dealing with single-pane windows, it might be time to upgrade. Double or triple-pane windows with insulating gas between the panes can significantly reduce temperature differences and condensation.

3. Seal Leaks: Check for and seal any leaks around your windows and doors. This can help keep humid air outside where it belongs.

4. Use Blinds and Drapes Wisely: While it’s tempting to keep blinds and drapes closed to block out the sun, this can actually trap heat and humidity. Try to keep them open when possible to allow air to circulate.

5. Maintain Indoor Plants: Houseplants are great, but they can add to indoor humidity. If you have a lot of plants, consider moving some outside or to a well-ventilated area.

6. Regular Maintenance: Keep your windows in good shape by regularly checking seals, cleaning them, and ensuring there’s no damage to the frames or glass.

Remember, a little attention goes a long way in keeping your windows—and your home—in great shape. Stay cool and dry this summer!

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.