As the cold weather moves in, we’re naturally drawn to things that make us feel toasty and warm, like fluffy blankets, cozy sweaters, hearty soups, and of course, our heating systems.
But while a heating system makes a home more pleasant, it can also produce an abundance of dry air. And the dryer the indoor air, the more problems it can cause for your health, home, and overall comfort. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the best indoor relative humidity falls between 30% and 50%.
Wondering if the air in your home is too dry? Read on to learn the signs and symptoms of dry indoor air.
Dry, Itchy Skin
Too little humidity can cause a variety of skin issues such as irritation, itching, flaking, and tightness around the joints. This can lead to painful cracking of the skin, and chapped lips. Dry air can also cause flare-ups of existing skin conditions, including eczema, rosacea, and acne. Avoid long, hot showers and baths and apply a hydrating moisturizer on damp skin.
Increased Thirst
If the air in your home is too dry, you may start to encounter an increased thirst throughout the day. Dry air sucks the moisture out of the human body, leading to a depletion of fluids. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day during the cold weather months.
Upper Respiratory Issues
Dry air can cause irritated nasal passages, nosebleeds, cough, and sore throat. Properly humidified air will keep the nasal passages healthy and comfortable. Run a humidifier while you sleep to add moisture to the air and relieve symptoms.
Static Electricity
When air becomes too dry, static electricity begins to build up, causing blankets and clothing to stick together, and that painful shock every time you touch a metal surface, light switch, doorknob, or a loved one. Fill small bowls with water and place them on top of radiators or in front of floor vents. The warmth from your heating system will cause the water to evaporate, adding much-needed moisture to the air.
Damage to Wood Furniture and Flooring
Dry air will pull moisture from wood furniture, floors, and instruments, causing them to dry out, crack, and warp. You may notice your hardwood floors creaking more than usual and door jambs shifting. Even paper items such as books and artwork can become brittle, warped, and wrinkled. The most effective and convenient way to protect your entire home and belongings is with a whole-house humidifier.
And that’s where we come in – Blau Sudden Service. With a whole-house humidifier/dehumidifier expertly installed by Blau, you can maintain ideal levels of humidity all year long. Are you ready to end the misery, inconvenience, and damage of dry indoor air? Contact Blau Sudden Service today. We’ll have you breathing easier and feeling more comfortable in no time.