Image for article titled How To Reduce The Humidity In Your Home Without A Dehumidifier

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With uncomfortably high levels of humidity in many parts of the country, you may have noticed the effects both outside and inside. Sure, turning on the air conditioner or having a dehumidifier on helps, but not everyone has access to these options.

Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to reduce the humidity in your home without, or in addition to, a dehumidifier. Here are some strategies from the experts at Consumer Reports and the US Department of Energy, courtesy of an article by Mary HJ Farrell at Consumer Reports.

How to monitor indoor humidity

It helps to have a clear idea of ​​how humid your home is, because how Farrell points out it doesn’t always correlate with temperature. To monitor your humidity, invest in a device that measures both temperature and humidity – many of which are available for less than $ 20.

Check your vents and exhaust fans

Start with your dryer ventilation system and make sure it is completely sealed from the back of the machine to the outside and that you clean it regularly. Farrell writes. Exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms can help with humidity, but they can’t do much if they’re blocked – so check those too.

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Seal leaky windows

If your windows aren’t properly sealed – including around an air conditioner – they could be letting humid air into your home. To find your leak, Consumer Reports recommends taking an incense stick and holding it by a window, door, wall, or any other location where you suspect there is a leak. If the smoke is blowing sideways, you likely have a leak on your hands that you can fix with sealant or weather strip. Farrell writes.

Insulate your water pipes

Condensation can form when there is a temperature difference between the water in your pipes and the indoor air. This additional moisture can then increase the humidity. Wrapping insulation around your pipes can prevent this from happening. according to consumer reports.