You might want to think twice before installing a humidifier in your home. While these devices are great for preventing dry air, they can encourage the growth and reproduction of fleas and other household pests. And once fleas find an environment in which they are comfortable, it’s hard to remove them. A study conducted by researchers at the University of Florida found that fleas prefer environments with a minimum relative humidity of at least 50%. Relative humidity is defined as the maximum amount of water vapor a section of air can hold at the given temperature. Technical jargon aside, it’s another way to describe the amount of moisture vapor in the air. If your home contains a relative humidity that’s greater than 50%, you may unknowingly be welcoming fleas right into your front door. Scientists continue to debate over why exactly fleas prefer humid environments. The most plausible theory involves evolution. Perhaps fleas originated from an environment that’s warm and humid, adapting to these conditions over the course of millions of years. When fleas find an environment that mimics these conditions, such as your home, they will settle in and begin to reproduce. So, how can you deter fleas from multiplying inside your home? Avoid the temptation of using a humidifier. Whether you suffer from nose bleeds or other problems related to dry air, you should avoid using a humidifier. These devices will only make the problem worse by encouraging fleas to enter your home. A smarter solution is to use a dehumidifier, which serves the opposite purpose by extracting moisture vapor from the air. When the dehumidifier notices the surrounding environment is above the specified humidify, it will begin to extract moisture vapor from the air. Another important step in discouraging fleas from reproducing inside your home is to regulate the temperature. As previously stated, fleas prefer hot environments, usually consisting of at least 77 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re able to keep your home below this amount, fleas will naturally prefer to stay elsewhere. Of course, these are just a few helpful tips to remember and follow when battling a flea infestation. Don’t let these blood-sucking parasites ruin your life. Use a combination of climate control and treatment products to kick them to the curb once and for all. Have you noticed a correlation between humid environments and fleas? Let us know in the comments section below!
Jan 12, 2015 @ 5:55