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You can check your home's humidity in a few ways. A simple option is to use a hygrometer, which you can find at a hardware or big box store. Your smartphone may also have an app that can measure humidity. Modern thermostats, particularly smart thermostats, are also able to measure humidity levels.

STC (Sound Transmission Class) is a rating that describes how well a building material or assembly blocks airborne sound. A higher STC rating means less noise will pass through the material, providing better sound reduction. This rating system applies to various building components, including windows, doors, flooring, drywall, and insulation.

For context, a typical single-pane window has an STC rating of around 25 (where normal conversations are audible), while a well-sealed, double-pane window can exceed STC 45 (blocking loud speech and most music). It is important to note that for some products, like soundproofing drywall, the STC rating refers to the entire wall system, not just the individual panel.

Additionally, STC ratings are most effective for measuring sound reduction at mid-to-high frequencies, such as human speech, and may not accurately reflect how well a material blocks low-frequency sounds like bass music or thunder. Because of these factors, it is recommended to consult a professional to determine the right STC-rated materials for your specific soundproofing needs.

A small sump pump running infrequently uses an average of 10 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per month. The average cost for electricity is $0.171 per kWh. The size and use frequency affect how much electricity it uses. Sump pumps average one-third to one horsepower (hp) motors. One hp is equal to 745.7 watts. Watts multiplied by the time your pump is running divided by 1,000 equals your average kWh. Multiply kWh by your average cost of electricity. In areas with high rain or a marsh basin, the average cost can be as high as $15-$25 a month.

Some types of electric fireplaces use more electricity than others. Models that produce 1,500 watts will have more of an effect on your heating bill than 750-watt models. 

Electric fireplaces use an average of $1.85 of electricity every eight hours. These minimal operational costs aren’t likely to make a big difference in your electric bill—unless you’re using it as a primary heating source for your home and it’s running most of the time.