Humidifiers: the Unexpected Comfort Provider

August 26, 2015

While it may be hard to think about adding a humidifier to your West Jefferson home while it’s still officially summer, now may be the best time to do so to make sure you’re prepared for drier air during the cooler months. While humidity isn’t typically thought of when considering indoor air quality, it should be.

Humidity plays a critical role in our comfort. After all, think about the last time West Jefferson had a day (or week…or month) of high humidity. That’s normally when you hear people saying, “It’s not the heat, it’s that darn humidity.” On the flip side of this, air that is too dry also comes with its own problems, from dry skin to a scratchy throat.

Having low humidity in your home can also mean increased static electricity, dry lips and hair, a scratchy nose and chapped lips to name a few. Dry air leads to an increased chance of your mucous membranes drying out, making it easier for you to get a cold or develop a respiratory illness.

Your home could also be affected by the lack of a humidifier as well, as woodwork and furniture can experience splitting, separation or warping due to the lack of humidity. You might also notice peeling wallpaper or gaps in your baseboards and other molding.

Of course, there’s no reason you can’t keep an eye on the humidity levels in your home, making it that much more comfortable when you walk in the door. Plus, using a humidifier has the ability to help you save energy and could reduce your air conditioner service costs.

Having controlled humidity also means you can have the thermostat set a few degrees warmer or cooler based on the season, because humid air feels more comfortable. Those few degrees could make an impact on your energy bill every month as well, potentially saving you money throughout the year.

Indoor air quality isn’t strictly limited to ventilation, air filtration or air purification. Humidity plays a big role in our comfort, so why not make your air the most comfortable it can be. If want to know which indoor air quality product could be perfect for your home and budget, give the team at West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. a call at 614-879-9091.