You might have used a humidifier only when you were sick, but what about using one to manage the moisture levels in your home all the time? Many homeowners are now making the leap and installing whole-house humidifiers because of the many health benefits they offer. They are great for your body and your home alike. If you are considering making this purchase, here are a few of the benefits you can expect when installing a humidifier in your home:
What is a Humidifier?
Before we dive too far into the specific benefits of a whole-house humidifier, it is important to understand the role that this appliance plays in the home. A humidifier adds moisture into the air and helps prevent dryness. It is a natural way to combat dryness that comes at various points throughout the year.
You can use a small portable humidifier if you want to add moisture to a single room. However, many people would prefer to balance the moisture in their entire house with one unit. This is where a whole-home humidifier comes into play.
What does the moisture in the air do for your health? Take a look at some of these key benefits:
Preventing the Cold and Flu
Are you naturally prone to illness? Some people seem to catch a cold or the flu at the drop of a hat. It turns out that restoring moisture into the air can actually prevent you from coming into contact with the influenza virus!
A recent research study tested dry air versus moist air to determine which one more rapidly dispelled the influenza virus. They discovered that the virus particles were deactivated much faster when humidity levels reached over forty percent. This means that the virus itself was less likely to infect those who were exposed to it when they were not in dry conditions.
Better Skin and Hair Conditions
During the winter months, many people struggle to keep their skin, lips, and hair as beautiful as they are during the summer months. It’s more difficult in wintertime because heating units in homes cause a lot of dryness in the air. The colder temperatures outside also dry out the skin. This is a lose-lose situation for everyone – unless you have a whole-house humidifier.
Dry air and cold temperatures can lead to dry, flaky skin that cracks and bleeds easily. A humidifier can correct some of those issues. You will have better skin, less irritated eyes and lips, and fewer bloody noses.
Lower Utility Bills
Have you ever noticed that your air simply feels warmer when there is moisture in the air? This is a phenomenon that is mostly noticed in the summer, but it can hold true in the winter as well. If you have a humidifier in the home, the extra moisture in the air makes the temperature feel warmer without the need for you to bump up the thermostat. This should be able to save you a few dollars on your monthly utility bill.
Longer Lifespan for Furniture and Flooring
When wood furniture and flooring dry out, the dimensional stability of the wood is at risk. It can shrink without the proper moisture levels, leading to cracks and splits. You may even start to notice gaps in the spaces between boards on your hardwood floors. By adding moisture into the air with a humidifier, your wood furniture and flooring will have a longer lifespan.
Reduce Snoring
If your partner has an extra loud snore that keeps you up at night, you might want to consider installing a humidifier in your home. Dry air leads to unlubricated airways, a surefire way to increase snoring. Adding a little bit of moisture to the air can help you to get some relief from your partner’s symptoms so that you both can rest more easily.
The Importance of a Humidifier
A humidifier boasts excellent benefits for your health and your home. Instead of giving into the dry air of winter, be sure to reach out to your heating contractors at Provincial Heating and Cooling. We’ll be happy to help you figure out your options when it comes to installing a whole-house humidifier!