High Indoor Humidity

8/25/2023 at 7:34:48 PM

What is the humidity level set to 50% on? Your ecobee controlling a humidifier? That should be fine...realistically it should never be running as your over the set point.

Do you have an HRV? Try turning it off if you do and monitor the humidity.

8/25/2023 at 7:43:17 PM

The humidity is set to 50% on the Ecobee thermostat. It's not controlling a humidifier.

I do not have an HRV.

Any other options to decrease indoor humidity?

What is a "normal" and healthy indoor humidity level?

8/25/2023 at 7:52:56 PM

Hi there,

Your humidifier should be set to off during the spring and summer months. If your humidifier is the bypass type, it shouldn't be running when the furnace isn't heating the home. I would recommend using a dehumidifier in the basement, if you find the house has excess humidity during these months. I find with my Ecobee, I get the same notification sometimes when we are cooking, because the thermostat is located outside of the kitchen area. Another influence to your high humidity levels could be an oversized A/C system, or your A/C system isn't running as efficiently as it could be. My Ecobee hovers between 50% and 60% in the cooling season.

Hope this helps,

8/25/2023 at 7:57:40 PM

Hey there,

HVAC professional here. Your situation sounds a bit frustrating, but I can provide some insight.

First off, construction variances play a major role. Your townhouse's build and insulation might be different from your previous home. If it's less airtight or if there's a gap in the vapor barrier system, this would allow more external moist air to seep in.

Secondly, let's talk system efficiency. Not all HVAC units are created equal. It's possible that your Ecobee thermostat is working perfectly fine, but the actual AC system might not be as efficient at dehumidifying as your previous one.

Outdoor factors: While Toronto can indeed get humid, it doesn't necessarily mean your indoor humidity has to be high. But remember, if you have activities that generate moisture (like cooking, showering without ventilation, etc.), they can contribute to indoor humidity.

Lastly, consider checking for other sources of moisture. Any leaks, damp basements, or even large numbers of indoor plants can elevate humidity levels.

A good step might be to call an HVAC technician for a thorough inspection. They might pinpoint areas where your townhouse is allowing in moisture or if your AC unit needs some tweaks.

Hope that helps and best of luck!

8/25/2023 at 8:17:49 PM

Thanks for all the feedback - much appreciated!

It's a new build and it's more of a stacked townhouse, where the main level is on the 2nd floor (no basement) and I have neighbours directly below me and beside me, on both sides.

The thermostat is just outside the kitchen and the bathroom ventilation is awful, even when fan is on. Mirrors are completely fogged up after a shower.

Could the above be a factor for high humidity?

8/25/2023 at 10:15:15 PM

Hey, check the furnace humidifier, it may get 24 volts directly and it's working always, instead of getting power from W line on furnace board.

Regards,

8/25/2023 at 10:18:43 PM

Good Evening,

There could be a number of things to contribute to high humidity. You stated the home is brand new and its stacked townhouse. So all building materials have not dried up cause they are still fairly new so that could be one issue.

Also having thermostat next to the kitchen could also be misleading.

3. if bathrooms fans are not doing the greatest job that can also contribute to it.

Lastly if the a/c is not sized correctly then it could not be removing the moisture at the correct rate.

Normal healthy home can see humidity levels as low at 40% to as high as 60%

8/25/2023 at 10:51:24 PM

You've all been very helpful. I will look into all of your suggestions and feedback.

Thank you!

8/26/2023 at 12:12:52 AM

We can come and check ur hvac system and take some measurements to advise on how to correct this issue. If u like to book an appointment feel free to call us.

Regards

8/26/2023 at 12:41:53 AM

Thanks, Vresh. My home is still under warranty as it's a new build, so I'll be contacting the builders.