Signs That Indicate You Need A Humidifier At Home

February 20, 2024

Humidifiers are one of the most commonly used appliances in households worldwide. The device adds moisture to the air, helping to prevent dry skin, reduce snoring, alleviate congestion, and more. Many people do not realize that their homes may be dry and lacking in humidity, which can cause a variety of health problems. Here are signs that indicate when it's time to get a humidifier for your home, the benefits of having one installed, and the difference between dehumidifiers and humidifiers.

Signs You Should Get a Humidifier for Your Home

Here are some common signs that indicate when it's time to purchase a humidifier for your home:

• Frequent colds and viruses: One of the most common signs that your home could use a humidifier is when you have an increased frequency of colds, flu, and other respiratory infections.

• Allergies and dry skin: If you have allergies, you might notice that you are experiencing dry, itchy skin more frequently. This is due to low humidity levels in the air.
• Damaged floors and furniture: Another sign that you may need a humidifier is if you notice that your furniture, floors, and walls are damaged or cracking due to dryness. Low humidity can cause wood to crack, paint to peel, and surfaces to become brittle.
• Increased static electricity: Static electricity is more prevalent during dry winter months, and it can be troublesome. Static shocks can be uncomfortable and could even cause fires. Running a humidifier can help to reduce static electricity, making you and your home feel more comfortable.
• Dry and uncomfortable respiratory symptoms: If you experience dry, uncomfortable respiratory symptoms such as congestion and sore throat, it may be time to consider adding moisture to the air with a humidifier.

Benefits of Having a Humidifier Installed

There are plenty of benefits to adding a humidifier to your home. Here are just a few:

• Relieves Symptoms of Common Respiratory Problems: By adding moisture to the air, a humidifier eases symptoms of respiratory problems like asthma, sinusitis, and allergies.

• Prevents Dry Skin and Lips: When the environment is dry, your body's natural moisture levels decrease. Installing a humidifier can help to maintain natural skin moisture and prevent lips from getting chapped.
• Helps Prevent Snoring: Dry air can cause snoring and interrupted sleep patterns. A humidifier expands the air passages and helps reduce snoring.
• Reduces Static Electricity: A humidifier helps to release moisture into the air, thus reducing the buildup of static electricity. Static electricity can cause respiratory problems and even a fire hazard.
• Reduces Heating Costs: Raising the humidity levels in the home will make the air feel warmer. This means that you can turn the thermostat down slightly and reduce your heating bill.

Difference Between Dehumidifiers and Humidifiers

While both devices serve to improve the air quality of a home, their purposes are vastly different. A humidifier helps to add moisture to the air, while a dehumidifier reduces moisture.

Dehumidifiers are typically used in damper areas of the house like basements, garages, or bathrooms where excess moisture has collected. On the other hand, humidifiers are more commonly used in bedrooms and living areas, where the air can be dry. In homes with wood stoves and fireplaces, humidifiers are especially beneficial because the air can be very dry from natural heat. 

If you are experiencing dry skin, allergies, static electricity, and other symptoms related to low humidity levels in your home, a humidifier may be just what you need. With the benefits outweighing the costs, investing in a humidifier is a smart decision for both your health and home. Remember that a humidifier should be regularly cleaned when not in use and that purchasing a humidifier with an automatic feature will help to control and maintain the correct humidity levels in your home. Our team of specialists can assist you in getting better air quality in your home — call Service 1 Plumbing, Heating, & A/C, Inc. today.