During the cold seasons, the air cannot hold moisture as the low temperature causes it to condense into water. This is why you find water droplets or mist on cold surfaces, especially the windows and external walls. Heating systems are in maximum use during this period and can further reduce air moisture. This can lead to health complications, discomfort, and damage to your property. You should thus ensure your indoor air has humidity levels ranging between 40 and 60%. A home humidifier is the solution to maintaining these levels even when your geographical area experiences a dry climate.
Understanding Humidifiers
Humidity is the amount of moisture in the air. It can either drop or increase depending on the room’s temperature and air pressure. In the past, people used traditional means, including boiling water in a pan or hanging wet towels near a heating vent to increase air moisture. In modern days, humidifiers are used to improve indoor humidity. There are various types, from small, portable units to large systems that are installed directly into your heating and cooling systems. Here are the different types of whole-home humidifiers available.
1. By-Pass Humidifiers
This type of whole-home humidifier relies on the hot air flowing through the HVAC unit. The humidifier is installed in a cutout opening on the supply ducts of the heating system, so some air is diverted into the humidifier. Inside, water flows on a wicking evaporative filter. The hot air causes the water to evaporate and carries it back to the central duct through a flexible six-inch duct.
Depending on the type of device, the filter can be drum-style or flow-through. Filters shaped like drums do not use a drain because all the water is turned into vapor to increase home humidity. With flow-through filters, there is more water wastage, and you need to install a floor drain. You also have to change the filters every year and clean the drain line regularly.
2. Powered Humidifiers
Powered humidifiers use fans to force air through a water tray to increase evaporation. This way, they can produce one more gallon of humidity per day compared to by-pass humidifiers. This device uses a flow-through evaporative filter placed in front of the fan that must be replaced annually. They also need a drain line to facilitate the disposal of wastewater. Powered humidifiers can be noisier than by-pass units because of the fan.
3. Steam Humidifiers
This device operates more independently than by-pass and powered humidifiers. It is the fastest and most efficient way of maintaining indoor humidity. A steam humidifier uses electric probes to boil water and generate steam. This is pushed to the ductwork through a thick rubber hose. Because of the boiling process, steam humidifiers can contribute to air purification. They can also operate even when the heating system is turned off. Due to their extra parts, they are more expensive to purchase, and the installation cost can be high due to the complex process of wiring to a standalone circuit breaker.
Reasons Why You Should Invest in a Humidifier
Low humidity has several detrimental effects that can be eliminated using a humidifier. When you need to increase humidity levels in a small area only, you can use a portable humidifier. However, you can invest in a whole-home humidifier that is connected to the HVAC system and water supply to raise humidity levels throughout the house. Here are some reasons you should use these devices.
1. Prevents Dry Skin and Irritation
When the air is dry, the body loses more water to the environment. This can result in dry, flaky, and irritated skin. The problem can be more severe on the hands, elbows, and feet as these areas have fewer oil glands. Even though using lotions and moisturizers can help ease the problem, they do not provide a permanent solution.
In dry air, your eyes can feel dry and tired even though you are not exposed to computer, phone, or tablet screens. Your lips may also chap or develop cracks quickly because they have tender skin. In severe cases, your lips may bleed. Humidifiers help combat this by adding moisture into the air, allowing your skin to retain its natural hydration. This is especially beneficial for individuals with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema. With the right amount of hydration, the skin can regain proper elasticity and prevent the formation of premature wrinkles and fine lines.
2. Protect Properties
Household items made of natural materials, including wooden floors, musical instruments, and furniture, are prone to damage when the humidity levels drop. The environment draws moisture from the wood, which can shrink and warp. You may notice increased creaking of the floors due to the gaps left. Acoustic guitars and other wooden instruments can also fall out of tune.
Leather has pores that let in moisture, so it does not lose the supple texture. The material can crack when the air is too dry. With a humidifier, your home can have adequate humidity so your property remains aesthetically pleasing and functional.
3. Keep Your Home Warmer
When your home has higher air moisture, you can feel warmer. This is because the water droplets help the air retain heat better. You might be able to set the thermostat at a lower temperature and prevent the heating system from overworking. This reduces energy bills and can help avoid excess wear and tear on the unit.
4. Protect House Plants
Most homes have indoor plants that are used to humid conditions as they are often sourced from the jungle. When exposed to dry air, they wilt, shed leaves, and become more susceptible to pests and diseases. Usually, plants will indicate low humidity by leaves turning brown or looking crispy and dead.
5. Protect Your Throat and Sinuses
The throat becomes dry and scratchy when there is inadequate moisture. The problem can be worse if you were previously exposed to a flu or a virus. The sinuses are covered in mucus. In dry climates, the walls can get inflamed and swollen, leading to increased mucus production. This can lead to nasal congestion, sinus pressure, and headaches. You may thus be forced to breathe with the mouth when sleeping. This can be uncomfortable, and you may snore. A humidifier is a remedy because the moisture keeps the mucous flowing to prevent congestion.
6. Prevent Static Electricity
Dry air is a primary cause of static electricity buildup, which can damage electronic devices. Static electricity occurs when there is an imbalance between negative and positive conductors. The energy can leap from one material to the next when it over-accumulates. Air moisture acts as an electric conductor and will pass the static energy to the ground so it is not passed between conductors.
If you struggle with low humidity in your home, you can seek guidance from our professionals at Childers Air Plumbing & Electric to help you decide the suitable model and size for your home. We also have trained and qualified electricians and HVAC technicians who can handle your electric and heating or cooling needs throughout Beckley, WV. Contact Childers Air Plumbing & Electric today for services you can rely on.
