Concept in Definition ABC

We need to correctly measure all kinds of variables, such as temperature, weight, distance, pressure or humidity. For each of them there is a device that establishes the specific parameters. In the case of humidity, the instrument used is the hygrometer. This word comes from the Greek and literally means "moisture measurement".

Humidity is the amount of water vapor found in the air

When a liquid turns into a gaseous state, this process is known as evaporation. This happens at any temperature as long as there is a free space above a liquid.

The amount of evaporation increases the higher the temperature of the liquid. However, when a liquid boils the rising bubbles turn into water vapor (in this case evaporation occurs by boiling).

The water vapor that has passed the liquid state mixes with the air from the atmosphere and when this happens moisture is produced.

The amount of moisture is variable and the factors involved are diverse: the frequency of the rain, the vegetation of the area, the

velocity from the wind or the proximity of the water. The most commonly used measurement is relative humidity.

The calculation of humidity levels in the air

The humidity data appears as a percentage. These devices are usually digital and also measure temperature environment and indicate the exact time and day of the measurement. As a general guideline, it presents a humidity range that oscillates between 20 and 99%. Since these utensils are relatively easy to misadjust, they need to be calibrated periodically, otherwise the reading would be wrong. These devices have a built-in sensor that allows them to capture the humidity existing in a space.

The importance of humidity levels in the home

The humidity percentage in a home should be between 40 and 60%, since lower or higher values ​​are not pleasant or healthy. Thus, below this indicator there is an increase in the electricitystatic and an increase in the amount of dust in the air, which causes irritation and discomfort.

Above 60% there is an increase in microbes and mold appears and, on the other hand, there is a greater sensation of cold.

To dehumidify the air and increase the heat in the home, it is recommended to open the windows daily for 10 minutes.

Another alternative is to use a ventilation device.

In any case, the use of a hygrometer at home is useful, because with this simple device you have precise information about the humidity level.

Photo Fotolia: Bong

Topics in Hygrometer