Instruments for measuring indoor air humidity: types + recommendations for selection

A comfortable stay in an apartment is possible after ensuring a comfortable microclimate suitable for residential premises. The climatic conditions in the room depend on the temperature and humidity of the air, so these indicators must be carefully monitored using special devices.

Thus, a thermometer is used to determine the temperature in a room, and a device for measuring air humidity is called a hygrometer. The principle of operation of a thermometer is familiar to everyone, but not everyone knows how a moisture meter works and how to choose the appropriate option.

Let's look together at the existing types of these devices and the features of their operation in this material. Let's also talk about the rules for choosing a suitable hygrometer.

How is air humidity measured?

You can find out the amount of moisture using available means: a lighted candle, a fir cone, a glass of water, or the condition of the leaves of a homemade moisture-loving plant. Such methods have been used for a long time, but they determine only approximate values.

Accurate readings can be obtained with a regular thermometer. This method is long and not very convenient, since it requires compliance with certain instructions, without which the data obtained will have a significant error.

Modern moisture meters are safe and fit harmoniously into the interior. Therefore, they can be used in any room to create a comfortable microclimate

To objectively measure water vapor in the air, special instruments are used that convert data on temperature and vapor concentration.

Such devices include:

1. Hygrometers.
2. Psychrometers.

Devices with different operating principles show values ​​with varying degrees of error. Some of the devices provide accurate data on the moisture content in the air, others allow for error.

There are instruments that record absolute values, and there are meters that reflect relative values. Therefore, before choosing a hygrometer, it is necessary to study the operating principle of the devices and take into account the conditions in which the device will be used.

The absolute value reflects the weight of water vapor in a cubic meter of air. The value is indicated in grams, kilograms per cubic meter. Such a value will not tell an ordinary person anything, so the unit of measurement is usually considered to be relative air humidity.

Relative humidity is the ratio of steam to air. The maximum possible amount of vapor in the air is 100%, the remaining values ​​are displayed relative to the maximum value.

To calculate the relative amount of moisture in the air, each device is equipped with a temperature sensor. Some devices broadcast additional temperature data, which is convenient since you don’t need to buy an additional thermometer

According to SNiP 2.04.05-91, relative air humidity should remain within 30-60%.
In climatically humid areas, with outdoor vapor content greater than 75%, the values ​​will be slightly higher.

Home weather stations for convenient microclimate control

For consumers who pay increased attention to their own health and strive to bring air parameters closer to the optimal value, climate control equipment manufacturers offer to buy an electronic hygrometer - a humidity and temperature meter and a barometer in one device. A design with similar functionality is capable of fully controlling the microclimate. However, the price of such devices is quite high.

Such devices not only have a large number of functions, but also have a decorative design. They can optimally fit into almost any room interior. You can also find unusual combinations on sale, for example, baby monitors with a built-in hygrometer. These devices are optimized specifically for children's rooms. There are also models with Wi-Fi function. They connect to the World Wide Web and display weather forecasts and other data on the display.

Home weather station for microclimate control

A hygrometer will become an indispensable assistant in maintaining optimal climatic conditions in the house. Its readings help to adjust the operation of the humidifier or dehumidifier and bring the level of water vapor in the air to normal.

Operating principle and types of devices

The operation of hygrometers is based on variations in the physical parameters of various materials. When the amount of vapor in the air changes, the properties change: density, weight, length and other operating parameters of the substances. By recording changes in the physical characteristics of materials, it is possible to draw conclusions about the amount of vapor in the air.

Hair and film moisture meters

The simplest mechanisms of devices, analyzing the physical properties of materials, make it possible to accurately determine the amount of vapor in the air.

The hair device consists of synthetic defatted hair, a base with a scale, a pointer and a pulley. When the vapor increases or decreases, the tension force of the hair changes, the pulley rotates, changing the position of the arrow on the scale with values.

Rare and exclusive models of hair hygrometers operate exclusively according to the laws of mechanics, and therefore do not require an external power source

This meter operates in the range from 30 to 80%. Nowadays it is practically not used, since there are other models that have a larger range of operation.

In a film moisture meter , the sensing element is an organic film attached to a pulley. When the humidity indicator changes, the film tension increases or decreases, which leads to the movement of the pulley, which changes the angle of the arrow.

The pointer moves along the arc-shaped dial, showing the percentage of air humidity in the room.

Both mechanisms operate according to the laws of mechanics, so they can accurately measure moisture in rooms where the temperature is low, down to 0 ° C.

Weight and condensation meters

Using a weighing hygrometer, you can determine the absolute humidity of the air. This device is used for laboratory experiments, so it is not suitable for indoor use at home.

The condensation meter summarizes the most accurate data. The design of such a device consists of a flat surface on which moisture settles, a thermometer that determines the moment of condensation formation, and a beam of light that detects the appearance of the first condensation. The operating range of the meter is from 0 to 100%.

The condensing device has large dimensions. To activate the device, a rubber bulb is used, so such moisture meters are used only in laboratories

These mechanisms generate results with high accuracy, which is necessary for research, but not as home air humidity meters.

Mechanical and electrical devices

A mechanical or ceramic moisture meter works through electrical resistance of the mass. Since the ceramic mass contains silicon and kaolin with metal particles, the resulting mixture changes resistance after a change in air humidity.

Due to this, with different steam contents, the arrow on the device changes position, reflecting the air humidity.

This operating mechanism allows ceramic devices to be made compact, which is why they are in demand for measuring air humidity in the home.

An electronic or room hygrometer is a modern high-speed device for determining indoor air humidity.

The following operating principles can be used in the design:

• measurement of electrical conductivity of ambient air;
• optoelectronic method, with dew point measurement;
• measurement of electrical resistance of polymers and salts;
• analysis of condensate capacity.

The digital moisture meter works using microcircuits, so calculations are made within a few seconds, and the output data has minimal error.

Accurate readings from an electronic hygrometer are possible in the absence of a draft. Some models allow fluctuations of up to 2 m/s, to take this into account, you must first read the technical documentation

When determining air humidity with devices of this type, it is necessary to take into account the ambient temperature. The slightest deviations from stationary conditions affect the final indicators, therefore, before direct measurement, street doors must be closed for 15 minutes.

In addition to temperature fluctuations, the operation of devices is affected by the proximity of heating devices. Therefore, when placing hygrometers of any type, take into account the proximity of radiators and place them on the opposite wall or table, located at a considerable distance from the heaters.

Description of the indicator and the importance of compliance

To make a room comfortable, it must have the appropriate temperature and humidity. The latter indicator is characterized by the amount of steam in the air. Its level may rise or fall depending on the situation.

For example, if a family actively uses heating and air conditioning systems, the air becomes dry. The lack of exhaust hood and ventilation leads to the formation of dampness in the apartment.

Dryness is harmful for people prone to allergic reactions and colds. A humid climate promotes the growth of mold on walls.

Special devices help to monitor the parameters. They will help to promptly identify deviations from the norm and eliminate the problem before it can harm residents.

Operating principle of the psychometer

Another device for measuring indoor air humidity is a psychometer . The mechanism of operation of psychrometric devices is based on the use of physicochemical properties of liquids.

For measurement, two degree tubes with liquid are installed on the device, one of which is wrapped in a wet cloth. When moisture evaporates, the temperature on the wrapped tube is lower than on the dry one.

Mercury and toluene are used as liquid materials for filling psychrometer thermometers. A device with toluene is less dangerous for household use

To obtain the result, you need to look at the air temperature on a thermometer that is not wrapped in fabric, and calculate the difference in liquid readings between both tubes.

Next, in the first column of the table of values, find the air temperature according to the thermometer. Find the difference in values ​​in the top line. The number at the intersection of the column and row is an indicator of humidity.

There are three types of psychrometers:

1. Stationary . A simple device consisting of two thermometers enclosed in a meteorological flask. One of the thermometers interacts with a damp cloth, due to which the liquid changes its physical and chemical properties and a difference in degrees appears. The results are calculated from the table.
2. An aspiration psychrometer is similar to a stationary one, the difference is that an aspirator fan is installed in the protective housing to move compressed gas. A kind of vacuum creates conditions for obtaining the most accurate indicators.
3. The remote device can be manometric or electrical. The design contains pressure gauge thermometers or thermistors, which change resistance depending on the state of the external environment. The finished results are displayed on the digital display of the device.

Psychrometric devices undergo standardization and verification, so the output values ​​can be considered the most accurate.

Stationary instruments for measuring the amount of moisture in the air are mounted and tabletop, so they will fit harmoniously into any interior.

Tips for selecting equipment

Indoor air humidity is measured using special equipment. It does not take up much space and does not harm human health or the environment. The results are always accurate or with minimal errors.

The manufacturer indicates the deviation coefficient in the technical characteristics of the device. There are multifunctional models that not only determine humidity, but also show time, atmospheric pressure, and temperature.

Some devices are equipped with a Wi-Fi module. Once connected to the internet, they show weather data. There are models that hang on the wall, place on the table, mechanical and digital designs.

What to look for when buying?

Indoor models of devices for measuring the amount of moisture in the air include mechanical and electronic hygrometers. They have a compact design, are safe for others and produce minimal errors in calculations. To support the design idea, modern devices have a laconic design.

Criterion #1 - operating principle

Mechanical and digital hygrometers have a number of advantages that can influence the choice of device.

The advantages of mechanical models of moisture meters include the following:

• the operation of the device does not depend on external power sources;
• they are easy to use since minimal additional adjustment of the necessary operating parameters is required;
• the cost of a mechanical hygrometer is slightly lower than an electronic one.

Digital models are made in the form of folding, portable gadgets.

In addition, the advantages of electronic models include:

• high speed of results;
• smaller reading error compared to a mechanical device;
• The output data is subject to further processing due to the presence of built-in internal memory.

Some electronic moisture meters combine several devices at once: hygrometer, clock, calendar, thermometer, barometer, dew point meter. Therefore, if a device performs several climatic functions, it is a stationary weather station .

Some moisture meters have a built-in alarm system that triggers when the steam level drops or rises between 30 and 60%. Such a device should be in homes where the climatic conditions of the region suggest high humidity or dry air

For the comfort of the child and parents, a hygrometer can be built into the baby monitor. This device has great functionality and an alert system.

The latest models are equipped with a Wi-Fi module to display information about the weather in the region by receiving data via the Internet.

Modern models of hygrometers are designed for specific specifics of work, so in order to accurately measure the air humidity in a room, apartment or other premises, you need to understand how the device will be used. Then the purchased moisture meter will fully meet the necessary requirements.

Criterion #2 - Humidity Range

Optimal air humidity is determined by the purpose of the premises. In bedrooms and living rooms, normal moisture meter values ​​range from 20 to 80%. Near the balcony, in the hall, attic and in the kitchen from 10 to 90%. We recommend reading more about air humidity standards in an apartment in this material.

In moisture-filled rooms, the range of operating values ​​can reach 100%. The wider the range of values ​​captured by the device, the higher its price. Therefore, when choosing a gadget for bedrooms, halls and attic space, you can opt for devices with a small range of values.

When purchasing a hygrometer, study the performance characteristics specified in the product data sheet. It is important that the device parameters include the upper values ​​of the range of expected operating temperatures

For some moisture meters, the maximum heating threshold is important. Thus, a device for a bath or sauna should include in its operating temperature range values ​​up to 120 °C. Therefore, in rooms where temperature and humidity can reach quite high values, you should purchase special instruments for measuring vapors in the air.

Criterion #3 - measurement accuracy

For the equipment of special storage facilities, instruments with the smallest reading error are required.

So, in a home wine library, the humidity of the circulated air should be kept at 65-75%, and the content of water vapor in the library should not be lower than 50 and higher than 60%.

Therefore, to measure the moisture in the air in such rooms, you should use a psychrometer or a high-precision electronic hygrometer, which measures the amount of water vapor by changing the electrical conductivity of the air.

The error of a psychrometer ranges from 1 to 5%, the error of a digital device is from 5 to 10%. Therefore, they can be used in rooms where air humidity must adhere to precisely specified values.

If the humidity level does not meet the standards, but you will need a device to increase it - a humidifier.

Rating of the best household devices for measuring humidity

Table 1 The best hygrometer models

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

The video will talk about the operating principles of stationary psychrometers and will compare the results obtained with the indicators of digital hygrometers:

Optimal air humidity in rooms reduces the risk of chronic diseases, alleviates the symptoms of existing bronchopulmonary diseases, and reduces the manifestation of allergic reactions.

The amount of moisture in the air affects a person’s performance, appearance and health. Therefore, measuring indoor water vapor should become a good habit in every family. .

Do you still have questions about choosing a hygrometer? Or would you like to add useful comments to our publication? Write your comments under this material.

If you have a hygrometer at home and want to talk about its pros and cons, write about it below the article.

Video description

About the features of an electronic hygrometer, watch this video:
You need to buy a device taking into account the following parameters:

• Required level of measurement accuracy. Indicators may differ in models from different manufacturers. More modern and complex devices give accurate results, simple designs give approximate parameters. For home use, too precise instruments are not needed; approximate values ​​are sufficient.
• Location in the apartment. Not all devices can be mounted on the wall, but for the home this is the most convenient option used for control.
• Complete set of measuring instrument. The device for measuring relative air humidity must be complete with indicators and psychrometric tables. These elements indicate the high quality of the equipment.

There are many types of humidity meters Source infourok.ru
If difficulties arise, you can consult with the seller to select a device that meets all your needs and conditions. The cost of equipment depends on the brand and technical parameters. The most expensive devices with a wide range of values ​​and additional functions.

The heating threshold is taken into account if you plan to install the device in a bathhouse or sauna. For these locations, it must withstand temperatures up to 120 degrees.

Moisture meter - the oldest measuring instrument

The idea of ​​creating a device for measuring humidity levels first came to the mind of the talented artist and inventor Leonardo da Vinci in 1400 . This device was quite simple: on one side of the scale there was a piece of porous material that absorbs moisture well, and on the other there was a piece of wax that had the opposite properties. At a normal level of humidity, the scales were in a state of equilibrium, and at an increased level, there was a deviation towards the bowl, where there was a piece of porous material. There was no question of obtaining any accurate data using such a device, but it is considered the first hygrometer. In its likeness, a weighing mechanical hygrometer (or, as it is also called, an absolute hygrometer) was later created.

Another invention for measuring air humidity belongs to the Swiss
Horace Benedict de Saussure . In 1783, he designed a device in which he used human hair as a reagent, capable of changing its length with changes in humidity levels. This reaction was transmitted to the metal frame on which the hair was attached, and the hand was set in motion, indicating the value on the dial. Using such a device, it was possible to make measurements in the range from 30 to 90% with an error of about 2.5%. For that time it was a breakthrough. A little later, the hair was replaced with a polymer film, but the name “hair hygrometer” remained. This device was used at weather stations.

Content:

Before we talk about humidity measuring devices, let's understand what humidity is and why measure it. Humidity is the content of water droplets (vapor) in various substances: air, solids, porous and fibrous materials. Moisture is present in certain objects, only in different quantities. The percentage of water per mass of the object being tested is the humidity level.

What humidity level is optimal? There cannot be a definite answer to this question, since each specific situation and the object being tested will have its own requirements. For example, in a warehouse where vegetables and fruits are stored, the humidity level should be at least 80%, but for storing bread such conditions will be unacceptable - the humidity level in the room should not exceed 75%. If living rooms are checked, then a humidity level of 50–55% is considered normal for human life.

In your daily life, you have probably encountered problems caused by abnormal humidity levels. For example, with an increased concentration of moisture in the air, apartments can dampen finishing materials, causing fungus and mold to appear. If the air, on the contrary, is too dry, this will affect a person’s well-being. The most common signs are dry skin of the face and hands, a tendency to respiratory diseases, eye irritation, and allergies. Violation of the permissible level of humidity affects not only people, but also plants and animals; food, food products and building materials spoil. Therefore, it is so important to control the humidity level using a special device - an electronic hygrometer. To appreciate the full significance of its use, let's get acquainted with the history of this device.

Themselves with a mustache

How to measure humidity if there is no device, and there is no need to buy it due to rare use? Ingenuity, experience of generations, simple objects that are in every home will come to the rescue.

Burn, burn my candle

Introducing the old-fashioned way to determine the humidity in a room. To do this, it is enough to make a moisture meter from a simple candle and a match. Before measuring air humidity:

• close the doors leading to adjacent rooms;
• ensure there are no drafts;
• light a candle;
• watch the flame.

If the flame sways and the halo has a crimson color, there is a lot of water vapor in the air. If the combustion is evenly vertical and the flame is orange-yellow, the presence of water vapor is normal.

Water, glass, refrigerator

This method makes it possible to measure air humidity at home. This device has only three moisture readings:

Before checking the humidity in the apartment, pour plain cold tap water into a glass glass. Place in the refrigerator for 5-6 hours. The water temperature should be 6 o C.

You can measure either using an outdoor thermometer or a bathroom thermometer. Then place the glass on the table in the room, 1 meter away from the windows and walls. After 10 minutes, evaluate the result:

• condensation on the outer walls of the glass has concentrated into drops that flow onto the table - excess;
• the physical state of the condensate has not changed - normal;
• the condensate has evaporated or it has become significantly less - insufficient.

Humidity range and heating threshold

According to GOST, the norm in winter is considered to be relative humidity of 30-45%, and in summer – from 30 to 60%. When choosing a hygrometer for indoor use, consider the range of values:

• 20-80% in the bedroom;
• bathroom – 100%, because the indicators here are constantly increasing;
• balcony, pantry, kitchen - from 10 to 90%; in these rooms the humidity also often increases.

The hygrometer can be used when the air temperature rises to +120°C, which allows it to be used in a sauna or bathhouse.

Like in the desert

Lack of moisture in the air at low temperatures leads to hypothermia and dehydration due to increased sweating.

In such air, the level of static electricity increases and the amount of dust increases. The mucous surfaces of the human body dry out. There is a sore throat, dryness in the nasal cavity, and burning in the eyes.