Whole-Home Humidifier: Dry air and what you can do about it

 

It’s winter in New England, so if you are experiencing dry skin, itchy eyes, and scratchy throat, it may be the result of dry air in your home and almost everywhere you go!  You can try lotions, bath oils, and throat lozenges … but the best way to fight dry air is to add moisture to the air in your home.

When humidity levels are low, your home can feel colder, your skin can become uncomfortably dry, and viruses can spread more easily.  Raising the level of the humidity can relieve the symptoms of dry air and make you more comfortable.

In addition, increasing the moisture level in your home will help protect hardwood floors and furniture from damage.  A lack of humidity can cause hardwood to become dry and cracked.  Using a humidifier will help extend the life of your floors and furniture.

Whole-home humidifiers use your central HVAC system to deliver humidity throughout the house. They work by blowing hot air from the furnace over a water panel, so moisture is evenly distributed to the air throughout the entire home as the house is heated.

A whole-home humidifier is connected to your water supply, so you don’t have to fill a tank with water every day. They are easily maintained, needing only a change of the water panel once or twice a heating season. Whole-home humidifiers are quiet and out of sight and can humidify an entire house for less energy than portable humidifiers required to heat one room.

A whole-home humidifier is installed on the ductwork near the furnace and is connected to the home’s water supply. A humidifier pad, a rotating drum, or a steam system is inside the humidifier, which distributes water into the air. When air from the ducts enters the humidifier, it is exposed to the water inside. The water evaporates into the air and the moisture level in the air in the home is increased. Humidity levels can be controlled through a humidistat so you can be sure that your home always has the appropriate level of moisture.

Your home will feel more comfortable even at lower temperatures, saving you money on your energy bills. Turning the thermostat down a few degrees can save a surprising amount of energy and money!

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