The well-being and health of its owners depends on the state of the microclimate in the apartment. The level of humidity is one of the main indicators characterizing the parameters of the air that people in the room breathe. Therefore, it must be periodically monitored. This indicator must remain at the level established by sanitary and hygienic standards.
Therefore, the residents of the house are faced with the question of how to determine the air humidity in the apartment. Various methods are used for this. Even without special instruments, anyone can measure the humidity level in a room. Existing methods will be discussed in detail below.
Why measure humidity levels?
When studying the question of how to determine the air humidity in an apartment, it is necessary to consider first of all what this indicator affects. This will allow you to assess the importance of carrying out such a procedure.
The indoor air humidity should not be higher or lower than the specified range. While indoors, a person may not immediately notice that the surrounding conditions do not meet the requirements of sanitary and hygienic standards. But over time, such violations can affect the health of the owners.
Due to increased humidity, asthma and allergies develop. A reduced value of this indicator leads to disorders of the mucous membranes, decreased immunity, and skin aging. Children are especially sensitive to unfavorable living conditions. Therefore, parents are simply obliged to monitor the level of humidity in their apartment.
Measuring air humidity without using equipment
There is a fairly simple way by which you can obtain fairly objective data on the level of humidity in a room. Moreover, all you need to do is have an ordinary glass glass of water.
To measure humidity, you need to fill a glass with cold water, then place the container in the refrigerator for several hours until the water cools to a temperature of about 5°C
When placing a glass in a room where you want to know the humidity level, you should observe the surface of the glass, paying attention to the following:
- if the walls of the glass first fog up and then dry quickly within a few minutes, then the air in the room is dry;
- the persistence of the effect of fogging the walls after 5-10 minutes after the start of observations indicates average air humidity;
- the appearance of flowing streams on the walls of the glass indicates high humidity.
Permissible value
When studying the question of how you can determine the air humidity in an apartment, you should consider the permissible values of this indicator. It should be noted that humidity is measured as a percentage. This is a fraction of the primary mass volume of moisture.
Experts say that the optimal value for the room is 45%. In this case, its deviation in both directions is allowed. Thus, the humidity in the apartment should not fall outside the range of 30 to 60%.
There are standards that determine air parameters depending on the purpose of the room. In a living room or dining room the range is 45-60%, and for an adult bedroom it is 40-50%. In the children's room the humidity should be higher. Normally it is at the level of 45-60%.
But for a library or office it is important to maintain this figure at the level of 30-40%. This will protect documents and books from premature destruction. In a kitchen or bathroom, humidity can range from 40 to 60%.
What air humidity should be in the apartment?
The humidity criterion is needed for people to live comfortably, so it is important to determine the humidity that is considered normal; we will consider it further, since other necessary parameters should be taken into account.
The average recommended rate is 40-60%, but these figures may vary due to the time of year:
- In cold weather, the upper limit of the norm is maximum, and it is better if this value is not exceeded. The norm in winter allows a moisture content of 35-45%.
- In summer, the optimal values are 35-70%; lower values will mean too dry air.
Despite some discrepancies, throughout the year it is necessary to maintain an average humidity of about -50-60%, and this applies, first of all, to the heating season.
Humidity standards depending on various factors
For different rooms, specific standards for water content in air masses are provided, and they are worth considering in more detail:
- Children, especially small ones, are the most sensitive to climate change; their bodies quickly freeze and overheat due to unformed thermoregulation, so the optimal humidity for a child is 55-60%. Any deviations from these indicators in the children's room can lead to illness in children.
- In the living room you can maintain 40-50% - this figure is suitable for people, animals, optimal for plants, wooden furniture and household appliances.
- In the bedroom, the recommended norm is from 40 to 55%, and it is advisable to ventilate the room as often as possible, and even leave the window open at night in summer and winter.
- In a home office, where books, computer equipment, paper documents and paintings are usually located, there may be less moisture in the air - 30-40%. This will improve human performance and preserve technical equipment and book publications.
- A pressing question is what percentage of steam should be contained in the air of rooms such as the kitchen and bath. It is recommended to ensure that the humidity does not exceed 50% at all times. To solve problems, as a rule, an auxiliary space ventilation system is installed; frequent ventilation of these rooms will also help.
- The percentage of moisture in a winter garden or greenhouse may be higher - from 50 to 70%, but along with this, you should pay attention to the temperature and quality lighting.
Consequences of living in housing with low and high moisture levels
By understanding what air humidity should be in the apartment, we have the opportunity to save ourselves from illness, rapid fatigue, lethargy and other health problems.
Constantly being in a room with elevated levels of water in the air, there is a risk of encountering the following troubles:
- Mold and fungal microorganisms, which inevitably appear in such a room, sooner or later enter the human body along with the air, leading to such serious consequences as bronchial asthma, allergies, and tuberculosis.
- In children, colds, sore throat, rhinitis and sinusitis, cough, and skin diseases are more common.
- For people suffering from hypertension, low and high humidity levels are equally harmful; this makes it difficult for the heart to function and negatively affects the state of blood pressure and blood vessels.
- In those who are predisposed to tumor diseases, climatic deviations from the norm provoke the development of cancer cells.
- Due to dry air, there is often a decrease in the normal functioning of the immune system, an imbalance in water balance, and a deterioration in renal function. In addition, over time, breathing becomes difficult due to the fact that the mucous membranes are less able to protect themselves from dust particles. Digestive disorders are also possible due to the development of dysbiosis, which is a sad result of the introduction of pathogenic bacteria.
Effects of high humidity
Delving into the topic of how to determine the air humidity in an apartment, you should clearly understand the consequences of deviation of this indicator in both one and the other direction. Inconsistencies are a warning sign.
The first sign of high humidity in an apartment is condensation on the windows. At the same time, all things and furniture in the room are exposed to dampness. Then a specific musty smell appears, and fungus begins to develop in the corners and on interior items. Mold is an unsafe neighbor for humans. It causes serious deviations in well-being and causes a number of ailments.
The consequences of high humidity can be allergies or even asthma, and a decrease in the functions of the immune system. Diathesis sometimes occurs in children. Headaches and diseases of the cardiovascular system are also a consequence of an unsuitable microclimate. Bronchitis and otitis media also develop in similar conditions. Cancer cells also develop faster in high humidity conditions.
Effects of dry air
From the above it follows that everyone should understand how to find out the air humidity in an apartment. A low value of this indicator is also dangerous. This situation occurs especially often during the hot season.
First of all, all dust, wool and other particles begin to freely rise and move with air masses. They do not settle on interior items and freely enter the human body.
Moisture from the skin begins to evaporate rapidly. This causes the body to quickly cool down. Also, the mucous membranes of the body begin to dry out. The protection of organs from harmful microorganisms is reduced. Fatigue and drowsiness appear.
Dry air has a particularly negative effect on children's bodies. Such an indoor microclimate leads to kidney problems and also contributes to the development of dysbacteriosis. Moreover, even an adult organism is susceptible to such effects.
Hygrometer
A hygrometer is the most reliable device for measuring indoor humidity. Its error should not be more than 1%. Multifunctional devices are on sale that also display room temperature, pressure, etc.
However, many owners are interested in the question of how to determine the air humidity in an apartment without a hygrometer. After all, this device is not always at hand. Buying a hygrometer is still worth it over time. But other methods can be used to assess indoor air humidity. This will make it possible to quickly take action to eliminate serious deviations.
How to choose an air humidity meter
Modern electronic hygrometers are safe and compact. The accuracy of air humidity measurement has virtually no errors, which means this is one of the most suitable options for an apartment.
There are many models that differ in functionality, design, size, etc.
To choose a hygrometer for your apartment, you need to consider several points.
Advantages of the device
- First of all, you should pay attention to the speed of issuing results and the coefficient of error of readings;
- hygrometers can combine several devices at once: thermometer, clock, alarm clock, dew point meter, calendar, barometer, atmospheric pressure level, have voice guidance and other capabilities. If a humidity meter performs several functions at the same time, it is called a stationary home weather station;
- some modern hygrometer models have a Wi-Fi module for displaying information about the weather in the region;
- There are also remote models that can easily be moved from room to room or even outside to measure air humidity.
Humidity range and heating threshold
The range of air humidity depends on the purpose of the room. Eg:
- in the bedroom and living room these figures can vary from 20 to 80%;
- in the kitchen, near the balcony and in the pantry - from 10 to 90%;
- In the bathroom, the humidity level can reach 100%, especially after taking a bath or shower.
The wider the range of operating values of a device, the higher its price. Before purchasing a hygrometer, you should consider where it will be located, and hence choose the operating range.
The heating threshold is important for devices installed in a bathhouse or sauna. In this case, the operating temperature should not be lower than 120 °C.
Measurement accuracy
This indicator is also important, but there are no devices with large discrepancies in readings on the Russian market, and maximum accuracy with minimal errors is needed only for maintenance, for example, a home wine library.
Measuring humidity with a thermometer
One way to measure indoor humidity without a hygrometer is to use a thermometer. This is a simple procedure. How to determine the air humidity in an apartment using a thermometer should be considered in more detail.
There is a certain procedure. You will need a regular mercury thermometer. With its help, you must first measure the ambient temperature. It is better to write down the readings so as not to forget.
Next, wrap the thermometer nose with damp gauze or cotton wool. After 10 minutes, the device readings should also be recorded. The second value is subtracted from the first indicator. Next, using Assmann's psychometric table, you need to find the level of humidity in the room.
Device for determining air humidity
Thermohygrometer
is a very complex device that measures not only air humidity, but also room temperature. Among other things, the thermohygrometer records readings about the state of temperature and humidity recorded from different points. That is, directly from the place where the thermohygrometer itself is installed and from the point where the sensor was previously installed.
The device synchronizes readings received from different points in the room, and based on this, it already provides results for checking humidity levels and measuring temperature.
A few words can be said about the technical characteristics of the thermohygrometer. The cable of this device is one and a half meters long, and the indicators are displayed in the range from 0 to 90%. Wireless models also available
thermohygrometers. These devices are equipped with another useful function, which is that when the humidity in the room is critical, an alarm is triggered, notifying about an unfavorable change in the air condition.
Glass of water
Another simple method is the glass of water method. This approach is not very accurate, but it will help determine significant deviations in the microclimate of the room. How to determine the air humidity in an apartment using a glass of water is discussed below.
There will always be the necessary items for research in the house. The glass glass must be filled with cold water. The contents should have a temperature of 3-5 °C. The glass must be placed in the room. There should be no heating devices nearby.
If the walls of the glass fog up, but after 10 minutes. dried out, the humidity level in the room is very low. If, after this period of time, drops of the fogged glass flow from its surface, the indicator is very high. If the humidity is within acceptable limits, condensation does not collect in drops and does not flow off the glass.
Measuring device
Today there are several types of household devices for measuring air humidity in rooms or apartments. How is air humidity in rooms measured and determined? Let's take a closer look at all types of hygrometers.
Thermohygrometer
Air humidity can be measured using a thermohygrometer. Let's look at his work. It has a complex system, so it determines not only the moisture level, but also the temperature inside the room. Also, in addition, this device records the values of the moisture state and temperature values at various points. That is, he compares the state of two indicators in the place where he is at this moment and in the previous room.
A device for determining air humidity synchronizes the values it received at different points in the building. According to these readings, the thermo-hygrometer gives an overall result of the humidity and temperature values. What technical characteristics does it have?
Let's look at the technical characteristics of the thermohygrometer. The length of the wire is 150 centimeters. Indicators are displayed as percentages, the range of which is from 0 to 90. You can also purchase thermohygrometer models in stores that are wireless.
These models have an additional function: when the moisture level in the room is critical, the measuring device gives a signal that notifies the owner about the poor air condition. It is convenient to use this device(s) or meter when measuring humidity in an apartment.
With this hygrometer you can measure temperature and humidity. You will literally be involved in changing the “weather” at home.
Psychrometer
This room apparatus is called in full - a psychrometric hygrometer. How to determine the air humidity in an apartment using a psychrometer? They have two thermometers. One thermometer is called “dry”, which does the standard job of measuring room temperature.
The other thermometer is a wet thermometer because it is inside a water vessel and is wrapped with a cloth wick. It gives an indication of the temperature of the wick, which is wet. The value of this temperature is obtained due to the evaporation of moisture. If the humidity level is low, then evaporation occurs much faster. And vice versa.
Thanks to a psychrometer, you can get the necessary information about the state of your room, that is, determine the air humidity. Today, a psychrometer is often used to control moisture content.
Devices: hair and film
A hair device for measuring indoor air humidity is quite easy to construct. Why is it called that? This type of hygrometer works on the basis of synthetic hair, which is fat-free. How to find out the air humidity on it? How to measure air humidity in an apartment using a hair device?
Due to changes in the air condition, this synthetic low-fat hair also changes its length. It is stretched between the spring and the pointer end. Due to the oscillation of synthetic hair, the arrow moves along the plate with divisions (dial), which gives the general values of the moisture level in the room. Let's discuss the “insides” of the device.
This device for measuring air humidity has a wide range of values - from 0 to 100. Therefore, information about the state of the air flow will be the most accurate. Its main feature is the simplicity of its operation. They are easy to handle so you won't struggle with it while using it. This meter can be placed on the wall in the room - it is quite convenient. Measure and find out information about the condition of the apartment, which will always be before your eyes.
There is another type of hygrometer - a film one. How to check the air humidity in an apartment using it? The film hygrometer is constructed differently, and therefore the operating principle is different from the hair hygrometer. The main distinguishing feature of a film hygrometer is the presence of an element that is sensitive. This component in the device is an organic film. The principle of operation is that the organic film can stretch, or vice versa, shrink - this depends on the state of air humidity in the house. The humidity value is also displayed on the dial.
If there are relatively low temperatures in a certain humid room, then it is recommended to use hair or film hygrometers. Other devices are simply not suitable for determining the level of humidity in a room; they are practically not used.
Solution
Having considered how to determine the air humidity in an apartment without instruments, you should learn methods of dealing with microclimate non-compliance with standards. When the indicator value is low, special humidifiers are used. They are presented in a wide range on sale. You can also place a damp towel or container of water on the battery. You should also pay attention to growing a sufficient number of indoor plants.
If the humidity is high, you can purchase special devices. They use various methods to remove excess water from the air. Experts also advise regular ventilation. This must be done even in rainy weather. Some rooms may require installation of a hood.
Having familiarized yourself with the methods for determining air humidity in an apartment, you can quickly and accurately assess the state of the microclimate in the room. This will allow you to take appropriate measures in a timely manner and return the indicator to within the standards. The health and well-being of people living in a house or apartment depends on this. Therefore, special attention should be paid to moisture measurement issues.
How to check humidity
It is very easy to check humidity, now you will see for yourself. Moreover, this can be done in different ways.
First of all, I want to talk about a special device for this. It's called a hygrometer. Manufacturers produce them in such a wide range that you can easily choose them even to suit your interior.
Another great option is a humidifier. A number of models have a built-in hygrometer. With this device you can achieve an ideal microclimate in the room.
But it is quite possible to do without a device and check the humidity level using improvised means. I want to tell you about the main methods. I think you will find something suitable for yourself.
