Austin, Texas — often called the “Live Music Capital of the World” — is a vibrant city in the heart of the Lone Star State. From the bustling downtown to the serene landscapes of the Texas Hill Country, the city offers a quality of life that’s hard to match. However, living in this dynamic city also comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to the weather. The rainy season — in particular — brings relief from the heat, but also a surge in humidity levels, causing discomfort in daily life.
The Austin Climate
In Austin, summers can be intensely hot and muggy, while the winters offer a brief, chilly respite with sporadic winds. The city experiences a mix of clear and cloudy skies throughout the year. The hot season in Austin stretches over 3.5 months. Conversely, the city embraces cooler weather for only about 2.9 months. In essence, Austin is generally hot for most of the year.
When It Rains in Austin
Rainfall in Austin varies significantly with the seasons. However, rain definitely falls here throughout the year. The wettest month in Austin is May, with an average of 3.9 inches of rain. On the flip side, the driest month is July, with only 1.6 inches of rainfall.
Rainy Season Humidity
In a city where heat is a constant, rainfall provides a much-needed relief from the oppressive climate. However, Austin homeowners must understand that with rain comes humidity — sometimes at uncomfortable levels.
Humidity is a measure of the amount of water vapor present in the air. High humidity levels make the air feel warmer than it actually is by hindering the body’s ability to cool itself through perspiration.
The connection between Austin’s rainy season and humidity levels is pivotal to the city’s climate. During the rainy season, the increase in rainfall contributes to higher humidity levels because as rainwater evaporates, it adds moisture to the air.
What Humidity Does to You and Your Home
A humidity level of 100% doesn’t automatically imply it’s raining. Instead, it signifies that the air has reached its maximum capacity to hold moisture at a certain temperature in the form of water vapor, which is not visible to the naked eye. As such, humidity also affects the inside of Austin homes. Here are different ways that high humidity levels impact you and your home.
Mold and Mildew Growth
High humidity levels make the perfect environment for mold and mildew to thrive. These fungi prefer warm, damp conditions and can grow on walls, ceilings, and other surfaces within the home. This growth affects your home’s structural integrity, but it can also cause or worsen health problems for you and your family, particularly those with allergies or respiratory issues.
Damage to Wooden Structures and Furniture
Wood absorbs moisture, which means that in high humidity conditions, wooden structures and furniture in homes can swell, warp, or even rot. This effect undermines the aesthetic appeal of these items, poses a hazard for those who live there, and can lead to costly repairs or replacements.
Increased Energy Costs
Homeowners often use air conditioners more frequently and at lower temperatures to combat the discomfort of high humidity levels. This increased reliance on air conditioning elevates energy consumption and, of course, leads to higher utility bills.
Condensation on Windows
Excess air moisture can lead to condensation on cooler surfaces, like windows. Over time, this condensation can damage window frames and promote mold growth. Condensation can also obscure the view and reduce the natural light entering the home.
Allergen Proliferation
Humid environments are conducive to dust mite growth and other allergens. These growths can exacerbate allergy and asthma symptoms for individuals living in the household, affecting their comfort and health.
Skin and Sleep Problems
High moisture levels in the air can also increase sweating, which may clog pores and trigger various skin issues such as acne, eczema, or heat rash. Moreover, when the body struggles to achieve a comfortable temperature, it results in restlessness, difficulty falling asleep, or even insomnia.
Cognitive Impairment
Studies suggest high humidity levels can affect cognitive function, impairing concentration, memory, and problem-solving abilities. The discomfort caused by excessive heat and moisture can lead to a lack of focus and general lethargy, impacting productivity and daily activities.
Signs of Poor Humidity Levels in Your Home
Yes, humidity levels matter. Since it can be too low or too high, it’s more important to keep an eye out for signs that indicate poor humidity levels in your home. Some common indicators include the following.
Mold Patches and Damp Spots
One of the most visible signs of poor humidity levels is mold and damp spots on walls, ceilings, or other surfaces. Mold patches can look fuzzy, discolored, or appear as black spots. Damp spots may also be visible on surfaces as darkened areas.
Persistent Odors
High humidity can trap and amplify odors throughout the home. These can originate from cooking, pets, or mold and mildew growth in damp areas. Persistent, unpleasant smells are often one of the first signs of excessive moisture in the home.
Frequent Respiratory Illnesses
If residents of your home are experiencing frequent respiratory issues or illnesses, it might be a sign of poor air quality caused by high levels of dust mites, mold, and other allergens that thrive in humid conditions.
Silverfish Outbreak
Humid environments make the perfect breeding ground for silverfish. If you start to see an increase in these small, wingless insects around your home, it could be due to high humidity levels.
Constant Sweating or Feeling Cold
If you find yourself sweating excessively at home, it could mean high humidity. On the other hand, if you feel cold all the time, it might indicate low humidity levels.
Static Electricity
Conversely, very low humidity levels can increase static electricity in your home. This static electricity can lead to electric shocks when touching metal objects, electronic devices malfunctioning, and even discomfort when brushing hair or changing clothes.
Humidity Control Tips During Austin’s Rainy Season
While rainy seasons and humidity go hand in hand, there are steps you can take to control humidity levels in your home and prevent potential problems.
Monitor Humidity Levels
Keeping an eye on indoor humidity levels can help you take prompt action when levels are too high or low. Invest in a hygrometer to measure humidity and set it between 40-60%, the ideal range for indoor comfort.
Fix Leaks Promptly
Water leaks, no matter how minor, can contribute to increased humidity. Regularly inspect your home to find signs of leaks and address them immediately to control humidity and prevent water damage.
Use Dehumidifiers
Dehumidifiers are invaluable tools for managing humidity levels. By extracting moisture from the air, these devices help maintain a comfortable and healthy atmosphere in your home.
Improve Ventilation
Enhancing airflow in your home is crucial for controlling humidity. Make sure that areas prone to moisture — like bathrooms and kitchens — are well-ventilated. You can also open windows when the weather permits and use exhaust fans to let air flow in and out.
Maintain AC Units
Your air conditioning system significantly impacts humidity levels in your home. Ensure it’s functioning efficiently by cleaning filters and having it serviced regularly. Proper maintenance helps your AC dehumidify the air more effectively while cooling your home.
Adjust and Maintain the HVAC System
Ultimately, your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is responsible for controlling what happens to the air in your home. This system involves various components that must function correctly to maintain a healthy and comfortable indoor environment. Regularly clean, check, and adjust your HVAC system and schedule professional maintenance for optimal performance.
Airstrike HVAC: AC Service Company for Austin Humidity Control
Should you feel relieved when rain starts to fall after a long period of dry weather in Austin, or should you feel concerned about the potential impact on your home’s humidity levels? Every Austin homeowner deserves a trusted partner in heating and cooling solutions. When the rainy season comes, and humidity levels rise, Airstrike HVAC is here to help.
At Airstrike HVAC, our core belief is that everyone should enjoy the ideal indoor environment, regardless of the season. Whether there’s the intense summer heat or the cold bite of winter, our goal is to keep your living or working space comfortable against all odds.
The backbone of Airstrike HVAC’s exceptional service lies in our committed team. Our technicians and support personnel have extensive experience; they’re the pillars holding up our promise of expert, efficient, and friendly service.
Our services include seasonal maintenance and HVAC repair and installation. If you’re looking for an AC service company in Austin for humidity control, look no further than Airstrike HVAC.
Contact Us for Expert HVAC Adjustments and Maintenance
Rainy season and humidity? You don’t have to worry! Airstrike HVAC’s seasonal maintenance and HVAC repair and installation services will guarantee optimal indoor humidity levels. For HVAC adjustments and maintenance for the coming rainy season, call Airstrike HVAC at (512) 277-5449 or contact us online.