By Anne Fonda
A hygrometer is a device that measures home humidity levels. Humidity levels indicate how much water vapor is in the air. Modern-day hygrometers display the humidity level as a percentage (relative humidity or RH).
What is the difference between a hygrometer and a humidity meter? While they both measure humidity, a hygrometer measures moisture in the air. A humidity meter measures moisture in walls or flooring to measure how damp they are – after a burst pipe or flooding, for example.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the ideal indoor humidity level for comfort is between 30-50%. Anything above 60% is considered high humidity, and anything under 30% is considered low humidity.
High indoor humidity can have a negative impact on your home and your family’s health. Signs of high humidity can include:
Low indoor humidity can also negatively impact your home and the health of your family. Signs of low humidity can include:
Other issues can cause some of the health symptoms mentioned, so it can be helpful to have a hygrometer to determine if humidity levels may be the culprit.
Monitoring your indoor humidity levels can help you prevent problems associated with high and low humidity.
Is a hygrometer really necessary?
It is not a necessity but it can be a helpful tool in determining if you need a whole-house humidity control system or whether a simpler fix such as a bathroom exhaust fan will do.
You may have seen an old-style thermometer/hygrometer combination in your parents’ or grandparents’ home – with dials to show both. Some of these “weather stations” had barometers as well. Those vintage styles are still available, but digital versions are cheap and easy to read.
Google hygrometer or enter the term on Amazon. Read the product reviews and select the one that has the features you want, including screen size, large display, comfort indicator, response time, placement options, etc.
For best results, follow these tips:
If you find that you routinely have high or low humidity throughout the house, explore whole-house solutions.
Browse our humidity control solutions.
Anne Fonda, Content Writer
A Content Writer with Trane Technologies, Anne Fonda researches topics and writes for Trane® and associated residential HVAC brands. She works in collaboration with Trane Technologies subject matter experts, offering easy-to-understand, informative content on complex topics. Her goal is to help consumers make informed decisions on the products and services they need.
She has written for HVAC and other service provider websites for over 16 years. Before transitioning to web content writing, Anne had a 14-year stint as an award-winning journalist. She graduated cum laude from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism.
When she’s not working, Anne enjoys playing word games, reading, gardening, spending time with family, and visiting gardens and museums.
Expert review by Jennie Bergman, Senior Product Manager, Indoor Air Quality
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