The first step in fixing a moisture problem is knowing you have one. Thankfully, your home often gives you clear signs that humidity levels are too high. Here are some common clues:

• Condensation on windows or A/C vents – If you see water droplets forming indoors, especially on cool surfaces, that’s a sign the air is holding too much moisture.
• Musty or earthy odors – These smells are often a giveaway that mold or mildew is growing in damp areas.
• Visible mold growth – Mold can appear as black, green, white, or yellow patches on walls, ceilings, or corners.
• Peeling paint or wallpaper – This can be caused by moisture building up behind the surface.
• Unexplained water stains – Discoloration on ceilings, walls, or floors may point to hidden leaks or moisture buildup.

And just as important: how it feels to live in a humid home.

• The air feels heavy or sticky – People often describe humid indoor air as thick, clammy, or muggy, even when the temperature isn’t very high.
• Difficulty cooling down – Your body cools itself by sweating, but in high humidity, sweat doesn’t evaporate well—so you stay hot and uncomfortable.
• Persistent damp feeling – Upholstery, bedding, or clothes might feel slightly damp or never fully dry out, especially in bedrooms or closets.

These sensory clues—how the air feels, smells, and looks—can often tell you more than a reading on a gauge. Trust your senses, and when something feels off, it’s worth checking your humidity levels to get ahead of any hidden issues.