Indoor humidity can make a home feel sticky, uncomfortable, and harder to cool. Twin Cities homes face an average summer humidity of 70%, and when combined with cooling system performance issues and poor ventilation, indoor air becomes humid.

A persistently humid home is a sign to check your HVAC settings or schedule an inspection.

Signs The Humidity Level Is Too High

The following signs often appear before a homeowner realizes that humidity is the real issue.

• Sticky Air: The air inside starts to feel sticky around 55-65% humidity.
• Condensation on Windows: Homeowners notice water on windows when it's very cold outside and indoor humidity is high. This is a sign of possible rot, but efficient windows help limit condensation.
• Musty Odors: Many molds produce microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs), which smell moldy and unpleasant. Mold testing may be needed.
• Mold Growth: Keep indoor humidity between 20-40% in winter and below 60% the rest of the year to help prevent mold.
• Seemingly Inaccurate Temperature Readings: High humidity makes your home feel warmer than it actually is.
• Allergy Symptoms: Humidity below 30% can cause respiratory irritation, and humidity above 60% can spread allergens and airborne contaminants.

Common Reasons a House Feels Humid

Poor indoor air quality and high humidity may come from outdoor air infiltration, poor ventilation, AC performance issues, or daily moisture sources. High moisture areas like basements, kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry areas often make the problem worse.

Often, multiple small issues add up to a noticeable humidity problem.

Air Conditioner Problems

A well-functioning air conditioner controls your home’s humidity level and limits mold growth. An AC system that is oversized, undersized, dirty, or malfunctioning may not remove enough moisture. The exact problem may be as simple as dirty coils that need a good cleaning, though some homes may require AC repair in the Twin Cities to restore proper humidity control.

Ventilation and Air Leakage

Poor ventilation can allow humid outdoor air to enter and trap moisture indoors. This happens when humid outdoor air enters through gaps and poorly sealed areas in the home. Previous renovations or new additions can also cover exhaust air outlets.

Areas like bathrooms, attics, crawlspaces, and basements are common trouble spots due to high moisture levels or frequent leaks. In some cases, damaged ductwork may also contribute to humidity issues and require air duct repair.

Everyday Moisture Sources

Humidity is not always caused by the HVAC system alone. Showering, cooking, drying clothes, and even breathing all add moisture to the air. A large number of people in one room can even contribute to indoor air quality issues.

Homes with limited airflow are especially vulnerable to moisture buildup over time.

What You Can Do About It

Homeowners can use these DIY solutions to control moisture and improve indoor air quality.

1. Check thermostat settings
2. Change air filters
3. Try basic duct cleaning
4. Use exhaust fans to remove moisture
5. Keep doors open where appropriate

If DIY solutions don't work, call for professional indoor air quality services in Minneapolis, also known as IAQ services. An IAQ evaluation will conduct an air quality test, identify sources of excess moisture, and provide helpful solutions. These may include an HVAC system tune-up or whole home dehumidifier system installation.

Talk to our HVAC Technicians About Your Humidity Problem in the Twin Cities

Total Comfort's technicians can identify whether the issue is airflow, equipment sizing, ventilation, or another system problem. As indoor air quality specialists, we tailor our recommendations to your home and your budget, providing honest, effective solutions. We also provide HVAC services in St. Paul to help homeowners resolve humidity and comfort issues throughout the region.

Call (763) 244-1800 to schedule service with the best HVAC technicians in Minneapolis, eliminate poor air quality, and get the fresh air you need.