Should Low Humidity Concern You during Colder Seasons?

When we think of humidity, we often only think of its effects during hot, sticky summer days. While it is a factor in maintaining temperature and comfort levels, humidity is just as important to maintain in the colder seasons. The amount of moisture in the air can drop seemingly overnight. Those who experience indoor allergies or asthma may notice the effects before anyone else, as drier air tends to hold more dust and trigger coughing and sneezing.

When you turn your heating system on for the first time in the winter, odds are there will be a flurry of dust after sitting stagnant for months. The consequences of low humidity can wreak havoc on both our health and our homes, which is why it's key to keep your home's humidity levels between 30-50%. This can improve your comfort level and reduce your energy costs in colder months.

But how can you improve the humidity within your home this time of year? That's where whole house humidifiers and humidity control systems come into play.

The Downsides of Low Humidity

When there is less water vapor in the air or lower humidity, it can make an environment feel cooler. Low humidity can also have a negative effect on your health. It can dry out the mucous membranes in your nose and throat, making you more susceptible to colds and respiratory illnesses.

Low humidity can also cause problems for the woodwork and furniture in your home. When there is not enough moisture in your home's environment, there can be shrinkage, causing hardwood floor separation and gaps in molding.

Static electricity is another side effect of low humidity in your home. This can damage components inside home electronics like computers, TVs, and more.

Installing a whole-home humidifier may be a good solution if you are having trouble maintaining comfortable humidity levels in your home during the cold months.

Types of Whole House Humidifiers

Fortunately, there are several types of whole house humidifiers, perfect for different sized homes and living spaces. Here are the three main types:

  • Steam - Steam humidifiers are usually installed on the supply duct and generate humidity by boiling water and converting it to steam or vapor. Steam humidifiers produce much more humidity than fan powered or bypass humidifiers.
  • Fan powered - Fan powered humidifiers use a flow-through system, meaning they use a fan to blow air across a water panel, which increases the amount of water vapor in the air. These types of humidifiers are ideal for small to mid-size homes.
  • Bypass -- Bypass humidifiers use a furnace to add moisture into the air it brings in through heat ducts. The air passes through a water panel, picks up moisture and is then distributed back into the home.

Investing in a humidifier is perhaps the most effective solution, as it can help to replenish moisture levels in the air and restore a more comfortable indoor environment. There are smaller humidifiers you can also purchase and keep in areas you frequent, such as your home office, bedroom and kitchen.

A couple other ways you can enhance the humidity within your home include:

  • Opening the dishwasher immediately after it's done washing dishes and allowing the steam to rise and enter your kitchen.
  • Introducing houseplants around your home to increase the oxygen and humidity levels.
  • Hang your wet laundry out to dry.
  • Let your shower steam enter your home by keeping the door cracked during and after your shower.

Finding the Right Solution

While the idea of winter may conjure up ideas of cozy nights by the fire and warm mugs of hot cocoa, it also brings with it the specter of low humidity and dry air. From respiratory discomfort to home damage, the consequences of dry air can be immediate or show up years later, requiring expensive repairs. By taking proactive measures to increase humidity levels and protect our health, we can ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable winter season for ourselves and our family members.

With multiple options on the market, choosing the right whole house humidifier to install can be a little confusing. Bradley Mechanical can help you make the right choice. We'll walk you through your options and make recommendations based on the size of your home, your budget and unique needs. Our HVAC experts can take care of installing it too!

Give us a call today at (804) 748-6728, and let us take care of your heating, ventilation and air conditioning needs this winter.

Find the Right Humidifier for You.

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