Residents of Atlanta are well aware of issues related to high humidity during the summertime. But many people don't realize that humidity can also be a big problem during the winter, too. During the winter months, the cold air is naturally much drier, leading to lower indoor humidity levels, which can negatively affect your health and even damage wood floors and furnishings. Knowing the proper winter home humidity level to set can help prevent damage to your home and keep your family healthy.
In our most recent blog, the indoor air quality experts at Estes Services explain the signs of low indoor humidity and the benefits of installing a whole-house humidifier to keep humidity levels balanced.
What Is the Right Humidity Level During the Winter?
The relative humidity is how much water vapor could potentially be in the air at any given temperature. The higher the temperature, the higher the potential for moisture in the air. This is why when temperatures are high, it is more likely to be humid. Humidity in the winter months is often very low because temperatures are colder, and the air cannot hold as much water vapor.
Typically, in many locations such as Atlanta, a relative indoor humidity level between 30 and 50% is considered ideal. A humidity level that is higher or lower than this throughout the year in Georgia can lead to humidity-related issues that can cause health problems and damage wood furnishings. In Northern states, when the temperature can often dip below zero, it's better to keep the home's humidity level between 20 to 25% to prevent home damage due to condensation and possible mold growth.
Signs Your Home Is Too Dry
Fortunately, there are signs that indicate the air in your home is dry and contains too little moisture. If you experience any of the following issues, you may be experiencing a low humidity level in your home.
- Nosebleeds
- Dry skin
- Itchy skin
- Respiratory and sinus problems
- Cracked lips
- Sore throat
- Increased allergy or asthma symptoms
- Increased static electricity
- Wood doors that are difficult to open and close
- Gaps between walls and the ceiling
- Creaky wood flooring
If you're noticing any of these issues, contact an indoor air quality specialist to install a whole-house humidifier in your HVAC system.
The Benefits of Installing a Whole House Humidifier in Your Atlanta Area Home
If you need moisture added to your Atlanta area home to combat dry air, consider having the technicians at Estes Services install a whole-house humidifier. Humidity in winter is often very low, so you'll want to add moist air to help maintain your house humidity control. Unlike a portable room humidifier which adds moisture to a single room or area, whole-house humidifiers are connected directly to your HVAC System to provide coverage for your entire house. Check out the following benefits of having a whole-house humidifier installed.
Improved health
As we previously mentioned, dry air is ripe with bacteria and viruses and can lead to several health issues such as the cold and flu. People with allergies, asthma and other respiratory illnesses are more susceptible to becoming sick if the proper humidity level is not met.
With a whole-house humidifier, you'll protect your sinus cavities from drying out and reduce the chances of you or your family members becoming sick.
Healthier Skin
If you or a family member suffer from eczema, dermatitis, or other skin conditions, low humidity levels can dry your skin out even more. Installing a humidifier will keep your skin moist and healthy.
Better Sleep
Adding moisture to your bedroom while you sleep at night can help you breathe easier and reduce snoring for a better night's sleep. With the right indoor humidity levels, your respiratory system won't dry out, and you'll cough less. Whether you're sleeping or not, you'll breathe much easier by installing a whole-house humidification system.
Protection for Furniture
Dry indoor air not only negatively affects your health; it can also damage your wood flooring and furnishings. Dry air pulls moisture from wood chairs, cabinets, doors, window frames, tables, and floors, causing them to crack and split over time. It's a good idea to rid your home of this dry winter air by adding some moist air and boosting the humidity levels in your home to prevent wood rot.
Contact Estes Services for Humidifier Installation
Ensure the inside of your home is at the right humidity all winter long by installing a whole-house humidifier from Estes Services. Our indoor air quality specialists are expertly trained at repairing and installing humidifiers and won't leave until you are completely satisfied with our work. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
