November 23, 2015
Sore throat. Dry skin. Static electricity shocks. Out-of-tune piano.
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, you know that winter is on its way. When the heat comes on, the air in your home becomes drier, creating problems for your home and your health.
Why does the air in my home feel so dry in the winter?
The humidity level is one of the most impactful factors in your body’s perception of comfort. When you turn up the heat, the humidity level drops, causing you to physically feel the discomforting effects of the drier air. These “symptoms” include:
- Cracked, dry skin and lips
- Sore throats
- Sinus irritation
- Allergy and asthma issues
- Greater susceptibility to colds and the flu
Your home can experience “symptoms” of dry air, too:
- Hardwood floors shrink and crack
- Joints in your wood furniture become loose
- Wallpaper peels
- Paint and plaster cracks
- You crank up the thermostat, but you still feel cold
How can I eliminate dry air?
Maintaining your home’s humidity level between 30-60% can help reduce the effects of unwanted problems from dry air. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to avoid these issues:
- Run a portable humidifier
- Dry your clothes on an indoor drying rack instead of in the dryer
- Cook on the stovetop instead of your oven
- Insulate your house and seal any leaks so you can keep your thermostat lower
- Install a whole-home humidifier into your central heating system to consistently maintain humidity levels, without any effort on your part
If you’re interested in installing a set-and-forget whole-home humidifier in your system, contact us today and a Dwyer representative will be in touch shortly.