Low humidity levels can cause a lot of problems. From health issues to damage to home furnishings, overly dry air is a concern in my local area. We deal with chilly conditions and need to rely on the heating system for approximately eight months of the year. The temperature is regularly below freezing and can dip down to twenty-five below zero. Cold air doesn’t retain as much moisture as warm air. Winter conditions tend to be overly dry. Inside the home, with the heater blasting, the especially dry air sucks moisture out of everything it touches. The lack of essential moisture can be blamed for drying out nasal passages, making family members more susceptible to respiratory infections, cold and flu. Recover times are lengthened. There is greater risk of insomnia, headaches, congestion, coughing, sneezing, sore throat and itchy eyes. Aggravated symptoms of allergies, asthma, psoriasis and eczema are some of the many consequences. There is the possibility of hardwood floors, moldings, doors, instruments and antiques cracking. Static shock, frizzy hair and chapped lips are warning signs of low humidity. Because dry air feels chilly, it can lead to higher thermostat settings. The furnace runs more often, works harder and consumes more energy and makes issues worse. Portable humidifiers aren’t powerful enough to make a difference. There are three different styles of whole-home humidifiers, including fan-style, bypass and steam-style options. Each one offers unique benefits and installs into the heating system to introduce necessary moisture as the air passes through. The living space feels more comfortable and lower thermostat settings. The dehumidifier uses very little energy to operate and requires only annual maintenance.
