How to Keep Your Home Comfortably Humidified During the Winter

Winter brings freezing air to the Denver area, and most homeowners are rightfully focused on keeping their space warm and comfortable during the colder months. But there’s more to comfort than just reliable heat.

Winter air can be exceedingly dry, and dry air can cause you all kinds of problems that you may not have even considered. A whole-house humidifier makes a fast and easy solution to the problem of dry air, and now is an ideal time to have one installed in your HVAC system.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of maintaining proper indoor humidity levels during the winter and how to achieve this using a whole-home humidifier.

If you have any questions or are ready to schedule service, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Centennial and Denver HVAC experts at Bell Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical!

Why Is Humidity Important in Winter?

We measure humidity in terms of relative humidity: a percentage covering how much ambient moisture is in the air. At 100% relative humidity, you basically have rain. At 0% relative humidity, you have no moisture in the air at all: something that rarely happens on planet Earth. As human beings, we’re most comfortable when the relative humidity level sits between 30% and 50%.

Unfortunately, that number usually falls drastically during the winter. As the air temperature lowers the moisture vapor in the air shifts to liquid form and coalesces into droplets: leaving the air in the process. That means that winter air is unusually dry, and when it drops below that 30% relative humidity mark, it can cause big problems in your home, including:

• Health Concerns: Dry indoor air can cause respiratory problems, dry skin, and aggravate allergies and asthma. It can also increase susceptibility to illnesses.
• Home Comfort: Low humidity levels make your home feel colder, even at higher temperatures. This can lead to overcompensating by turning up the thermostat, resulting in higher energy bills.
• Home Maintenance: Dry air can damage wood furniture, flooring, and musical instruments, causing them to crack or warp.

The Benefits of Whole-Home Humidifiers

Whole-home humidifiers offer a convenient and effective solution to combat these winter-related problems in Denver and the surrounding area. Here are some benefits:

1) Consistent Humidity

These systems ensure that your entire home maintains an optimal humidity level, providing comfort and improving indoor air quality.

2) Energy Efficiency

Whole-home humidifiers can help improve energy efficiency by making your home feel warmer at lower temperatures. This means you can potentially lower your thermostat and save on heating costs.

3) Health

Maintaining proper humidity levels can alleviate respiratory discomfort, reduce the risk of illnesses, and ease dry skin and irritated eyes.

4) Home Preservation

By preventing excessive dryness, whole-home humidifiers can protect your home’s structural integrity, reducing the likelihood of cracks and warping in wooden surfaces.

Types of Whole-Home Humidifiers

There are a few different types of whole-home humidifiers to choose from:

• Steam Humidifiers: These systems generate steam to introduce moisture into the air. They are highly effective at quickly raising humidity levels.
• Drum Humidifiers: Drum-style humidifiers use a rotating drum to distribute moisture. They are cost-effective but may require more maintenance.
• Flow-Through (Bypass) Humidifiers: These units work by passing air through a water panel or evaporator pad. They are easy to maintain and efficient.

How to Choose the Right Whole-Home Humidifier for Your Home

Selecting the right humidifier for your Denver-area home is crucial. Consider the following factors:

• Size: Ensure the unit is appropriately sized for your home’s square footage to maintain consistent humidity levels.
• Maintenance: Evaluate the ease of cleaning and replacing components to keep the unit in optimal condition.
• Installation: Seek professional installation to ensure proper placement and functionality.
• Energy Efficiency: Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models to save on energy costs.

Whole-Home Humidifier Maintenance & Usage Tips

To get the most out of your whole-home humidifier, follow these tips:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean and disinfect your humidifier regularly to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
• Monitor Humidity Levels: Invest in a hygrometer to monitor indoor humidity levels and adjust your humidifier settings accordingly.
• Use Distilled Water: Using distilled water can help prevent mineral buildup in your humidifier.
• Replace Filters: Follow manufacturer recommendations for replacing filters and pads.

Keeping your home comfortably humidified during the winter is essential for your health, home maintenance, and energy efficiency. With the right whole-home humidifier and proper maintenance, you can create a cozy and healthy indoor environment that will make winter much more enjoyable.

Call the Centennial & Denver IAQ Experts at Bell Today

Don’t let dry winter air compromise your well-being and comfort. If you haven’t already, invest in a whole-home humidifier. Reach out to Bell for assistance and start reaping the benefits of a properly humidified home this winter season. Your family and your home will thank you!