Besides dreary weather and chilly temperatures, the winter months bring dry air. Even in a humid city like Houston, our central heating systems dry out the air in our homes. These low humidity levels can cause health issues and damage belongings. Mission Air Conditioning and Plumbing created this guide to help. Follow along to better understand how humidifiers combat dry winter air.
What does a humidifier do
Home heating systems tend to dry out the air in your home. This dry air can cause issues ranging from general discomfort to damage to your electronics. A humidifier introduces moisture into the air and can be very beneficial. Read on to learn more about why you should consider investing in a house humidifier.
Effects on the body without a humidifier
- Allergies: Individuals who suffer from seasonal allergies may experience itchy throats and sore noses. Dry air can worsen these symptoms and extend the duration of your allergies. Consider an indoor air quality test to pinpoint the source of your allergies.
- Viral transmission: It is easier for airborne viruses to travel through a dry environment than a humid one. Viruses like influenza are more transmissible in a home without a humidifier.
- Dry skin: The human body needs moisture. A person’s skin alone contains more than 60% water, not to mention all their other organs. One of the first signs of low humidity can manifest as dry skin, chapped lips or irritated eyes.
- Poor sleep: Dry air can irritate the back of your throat while you sleep. This is especially true if you breathe through your mouth. Over time, this dryness can lead to snoring and fitful sleep.
Humidifiers help your home
- Houseplants: Higher humidity levels allow houseplants to hold moisture in their soil. Low humidity can pull water from the soil and stress your plants. Many common houseplants thrive in moist environments and enjoy a nearby humidifier.
- Furniture: Moisture levels affect wooden and upholstered furniture. Try to maintain a humidity level of about 45% in your home to keep furniture from cracking or warping.
- Comfort: The moisture in your home’s air can change how the indoor temperature feels. When set to the proper level, humidity can make your home feel warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
- Static reduction: Dry air holds onto static electricity more so than heavier, moist air. This build up of static escapes when you touch a conductive surface. Conductive surfaces include sensitive electronics. Humidifiers add moisture to the air and reduce the occurrence of static shocks.
Your Home Humidity Levels
Your home humidity levels are primarily affected by your HVAC system. Moisture levels in your home can have effects on everything from your health to your comfort levels, to your electronics and furniture.
The ideal humidity level in your home can be met with humidifiers and proper HVAC installation and tune-ups. Having your HVAC installed the right way the first time will ensure your humidity levels stay at a reasonable level. Continued and regular maintenance on your unit will ensure it stays that way for years to come.
For more help with your indoor air quality, contact the experts at Mission AC and Plumbing today!
