Summer Corn Challenges: Overcoming Unseen Impacts of Humidity
In the heart of summer, the heat can be stifling, especially in humid regions like the U.S. Midwest. But did you know that corn fields, a common sight in these parts, could be contributing to the discomfort?
Corn plants, much like other vegetation, have a self-cooling process called transpiration. Through this process, they release water into the air, a phenomenon commonly known as "corn sweat." This evaporation increases local humidity levels, which in turn raises the heat index and makes the air feel hotter during extreme heat conditions [1][3][5].
In dry climates, this increase in humidity might not be as noticeable, with a 10% rise in humidity raising the heat index by only one degree. However, in humid climates, the same 10% increase can result in a heat index of 90 degrees [5]. This is because the cooling effect of plant transpiration is less effective in high humidity [2].
The cornfields' impact on humidity adds up significantly. For instance, in Iowa, which has approximately 13.5 million acres of corn, the combined effect of transpiration can be substantial [6].
For homeowners in these affected regions, understanding this interplay between corn-induced humidity and heat is crucial when considering energy-efficient home upgrades. High humidity strains air conditioning systems, increasing energy consumption and costs [4][5].
To combat this, easy weatherproofing projects like ventilating the home, sealing air leaks, and using a whole house fan can help reduce humidity indoors. Additionally, pairing a dehumidifier with an air conditioner provides precision control over the climate in a home. A dehumidifier is more efficient than an air conditioner at removing moisture, and a portable one can save money and increase comfort in humid climates [7].
Keeping indoor humidity below 50% ensures the temperature on the thermostat matches the temperature that is felt. By reducing humidity to 40% or lower, it's possible to cool the air without air conditioning [3]. Even the shade provided by trees can result in air that is up to nine degrees cooler under a tree compared to just outside it [8]. Corn fields likely cool the air below them by as much as five degrees [9].
In summary, corn fields raise ambient humidity through evapotranspiration during extreme heat, intensifying the heat index locally, and this humidity spike influences how homeowners approach energy-efficient upgrades to maintain cooler, more comfortable indoor environments and reduce cooling energy demands [1][3][5][4]. By understanding this relationship, homeowners can make informed decisions to improve their homes' energy efficiency and comfort during the hot summer months.
References: [1] https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/07/160722131920.htm [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3671934/ [3] https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/articles/dehumidification-your-home [4] https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/articles/air-conditioning-your-home [5] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-018-22496-8 [6] https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/crop-production-data-corn/ [7] https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/articles/dehumidifiers [8] https://www.arborday.org/trees/benefits/energy/cooling.cfm [9] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-018-22496-8
- In the field of environmental science, it is important to consider the impact of cornfields on health-and-wellness, as their evaporative process can increase local humidity and raise the heat index.
- For individuals concerned with lifestyle and home-and-garden, understanding the impact of cornfields on climate-change can help inform decisions about energy-efficient home upgrades, such as weatherproofing projects or the use of a dehumidifier.
- The fitness-and-exercise community might be interested to know that, while trees provide cooling shade, cornfields can also contribute to localized cooling effects, reducing the air temperature by up to five degrees.
- General news outlets might cover stories about the interplay between cornfields, heat index, and humidity levels, as this relationship is relevant to many aspects of daily life, including health, lifestyle, and energy usage.
