What factors change the insulation performance of an object?

The insulation performance of an object can be significantly impacted by humidity levels. When humidity increases, the moisture content in the air can infiltrate insulation materials, particularly those that are porous or hygroscopic, such as fiberglass or cellulose. This moisture can reduce the material's effectiveness by creating a thermal bridge, which allows heat to transfer more readily.

The presence of water vapor can also lead to a reduction in the insulating properties by altering the material's density and thermal conductivity. In some cases, high humidity can lead to mold growth or deterioration of the insulation material itself, further decreasing its insulating capabilities.

While other factors like temperature, pressure, and material age also affect insulation performance, humidity specifically interacts with the material properties to create immediate changes in insulation effectiveness.