How to Maintain the Proper Humidity Levels in Your Home

The Importance of Maintaining Proper Humidity In The Home

During the cold winter months when the temperature regularaly dip below zero the air in our homes can become extremely dry. This dry air can have a direct impact on our health. Without a humidity level of at least 35% and 55% our skin becomes dry and nasal passage become more suseptible to infections from bacteria and cold viruses. Low humidity can also lead to excessive airborne dust and pathogens.

If you have expensive woodwork in your home, such as antique furniture, pianos or violins, dry air can cause expensive damage by drying out and cracking wood and fine finishes.

While forced air furnaces often get the blame for drying out the air in our homes, it is really the air leaks around the house that allow cold, dry air to intrude and warm, moist air to escape.

To achieve the correct levels of healthy indoor humidity, we often must use a humidifier to add additional moisture to the air. Whole-house humidifiers mounted to a central heating system will add around 12 gallons of water to your air per day, something that would be impractical with plug-in room vaporizers.

If you have questions about whole house humidifiers or other indoor air quality products, ABC Plumbing. We'll be happy to help.