How Humidifiers Can Help Homes During Cold, Dry Winters
The air's moisture level isn't something that people often consider. There's less moisture in the air when it's cold outside, such as in winter. And when the air outside a home lacks moisture, it can affect things inside the home. Many assume that low humidity's negative effects can't be countered. But they can! With the right humidifier, the negative effects of low humidity in the home can be reversed, allowing people to live in health and comfort even through the coldest, driest winter. Read on to learn more about the importance of maintaining proper humidity levels.
Breathe Easy
Indoor air quality (IAQ) isn't just a matter of pollutant levels in a home's air. It's also a matter of how much moisture is in the air. The air can't hold as much moisture during the cold winter months. This dries out the air. But things get even worse when the furnace is running to keep the house warm. Furnaces dry out the air even further. This can lead to some unpleasant side effects, including breathing issues.
When the air dries out too much, the mucous membranes along the respiratory tract also dry out. And when this happens, it can cause sore throats, coughs, and nosebleeds. Low moisture levels can also exacerbate allergies, COPD, and even bronchitis. But when there's more moisture in the air, the body can keep those membranes lubricated, allowing those in the home to breathe easier.
Keep the Skin Healthy
The respiratory tract isn't the only part of the body going dry in the wintertime. Skin also takes a beating when there's too little moisture in the air. This is because the body naturally carries some moisture in the epidermis. Optimal moisture levels in the skin give it elasticity and make it look healthy and firm.
But when the environment has low humidity, the skin loses this moisture, making it look dull and dry. Many people experience cracked and itchy skin during the winter months. Wrinkles may look more apparent, and scratching can cause unsightly and uncomfortable patches on the skin. By installing a whole-home humidifier, people can help their skin retain its moisture, even when it's cold and dry outside.
Help Indoor Plants
Humidity levels inside don't just affect humans. Low humidity levels in the home can also harm houseplants. When low levels, the air can draw moisture out of plants' leaves — transpiration. When this happens, homeowners need to stay on top of watering the plants because they'll need more water than they would if the humidity levels were higher. And if plants don't get enough water, they can show signs of sickness — browning leaves, wilting, leaves, or buds falling off.
While low humidity levels aren't a threat to life or limb, they can certainly have negative connotations for people and plants in the home. Luckily, installing a whole-home humidifier can remedy these issues easily. Maintaining proper moisture levels can make for a comfortable and healthy living space, preventing dry skin, dry throats, and dying houseplants.
About Barker Heating & Cooling
Barker Heating & Cooling has proudly served Livermore, CA, and the Tri-Valley area since 1998. Their knowledgeable technicians are always background-checked and drug-tested. They utilize the latest technology to provide excellent, top-rated service. Contact them today for questions about whole-home humidifier installation in Livermore, CA.
