How Can I Tell If the Humidity Level in My House Is Too Low?

Check to see if your throat feels dry and scratchy or you have a dry cough. Determine if your nose is dry and if you have experienced worsening respiratory problems lately. Air that's too dry can also cause dry skin and chapped lips.

Notice whether you get shocked often by static electricity when you pet your cat or dog, or when you walk across carpet and then touch metal.

Check wooden floors, woodwork, glued furniture joints, and even paintings for cracks and signs of separation. If your house plants are requiring watering more often -- these are all signs the humidity in your house is too low.

Use a hygrometer -- also called a humidity sensor or relative humidity indicator -- to measure the relative humidity. Place it in a room where you notice the signs of dry air the most. To get accurate readings, keep the device away from sources of heat, such as radiators and chimneys. It may take up to two hours until the hygrometer stabilizes and gives you a correct reading. You can then take steps to increase the moisture in the air.