Most homeowners are familiar with dehumidifiers and their uses, but the majority of homeowners are unaware of when they need a humidifier in their home. Humidifiers add moisture to the air and provide numerous benefits, especially in certain situations. Below, we’ll discuss why humidifiers are so helpful as well as five signs that you need one in your home.
Why Use a Humidifier?
Most people understand the dangers of damp air in their houses, but few know that dry air can also present numerous issues.
Humidifiers add moisture to the air that can weigh down dust and other airborne allergens. Ultimately, homeowners who have humidifiers might experience better indoor air quality and fewer instances of coughing, sneezing, and respiratory distress.
Dry air is detrimental to the building materials we use in our homes, including wood and sheetrock. A humidifier can maintain proper humidity to prevent your wood floors and walls from cracking.
Additionally, dry air isn’t good for your hair or skin. Humidified air can promote a healthy appearance and help avoid skin from flaking or peeling, especially in the winter.
Five Signs You Need a Humidifier
Below are the top five signs you might benefit from installing a humidifier in your house.
1. Static Electricity
If you’re constantly getting shocked when you touch electronics or make contact with another person, chances are the dry air in your home is to blame. A humidifier can reduce static electricity in most cases.
2. Dry Skin and Chapped Lips
If you suffer from dry, flaky skin or frequently chapped lips in the winter, it might be due to low indoor humidity.
3. Allergy Symptoms
Dust and other allergens remain airborne more readily in dry air, so you might notice coughing, sneezing, or respiratory distress if your home is full of dry air. A humidifier adds moisture to the particles that weigh them down and keeps them on the floor instead.
4. Cracks in Your Floors and Walls
Dry air can cause studs, wood floors, and sheetrock to flex and bow, often resulting in cracks. If you notice this type of damage inside your home, it might be time to install a humidifier.
5. Unusually Cold Indoor Temperatures
Moist air feels warmer in the winter because sweat evaporates from your skin less readily, reducing the amount of body heat you lose. If you’re constantly upping your thermostat or going for a sweatshirt even though the temperature setting is normal, you might benefit from a humidifier.
