As the temperatures continue to drop and head for the coldest days of the year, many of us cozy up indoors to escape the cold. While we may revel in the warmth of our homes, it’s important to be aware of a hidden adversary that often accompanies the winter season—dry air.
The drop in relative humidity during winter can lead to a host of problems, affecting both our health and homes. In this blog, we’ll explore the perils of low humidity and introduce a solution that can make your winter months more comfortable and enjoyable.
Understanding Dry Winter Air
Dry winter air is primarily a result of two factors:
- Cold Air’s Reduced Capacity to Hold Moisture: Cold air has a lower capacity to hold moisture compared to warm air. When the temperature drops, the air becomes drier, leading to lower relative humidity levels.
- Increased Use of Heating Systems: During winter, we rely heavily on heating systems to keep our homes warm. These systems can further reduce indoor humidity levels as they heat the air because they create a deficit of air in the home—resulting in colder, drier outdoor air entering the building.
As a result, it’s not uncommon for indoor relative humidity levels to plummet to around 20–30% during the winter months.
The Problems Caused by Low Humidity
Low humidity in your home during the winter can have several negative consequences:
Health Issues
- Dry Skin and Chapped Lips: Low humidity can sap moisture from your skin, leading to dryness, itchiness, and chapped lips.
- Respiratory Problems: Dry air can irritate the respiratory system, leading to dry coughs, congestion, and increased vulnerability to illnesses such as colds and the flu.
Damage to the Home:
- Cracked Wooden Furniture and Flooring: Insufficient moisture can cause wooden furniture and flooring to crack and warp over time.
- Peeling Paint and Wallpaper: Dry air can lead to paint and wallpaper peeling away from your walls, requiring costly repairs.
Increased Energy Costs:
- Reduced Comfort: Dry air can make you feel colder than you actually are, causing you to turn up the thermostat and leading to higher energy bills.
A Solution: Whole-House Dehumidifiers
Now that we’ve highlighted the problems associated with low humidity in winter, it’s time to introduce a solution: a whole-house humidifier in Colorado Springs. These devices are designed to maintain optimal humidity levels in your home, improving indoor air quality, and protecting your health and belongings.
Whole-house humidifiers work by integrating seamlessly with your existing HVAC system, allowing for continuous moisture control. They place moisture into the air as it circulates through your home, ensuring that relative humidity levels stay within the recommended range of 30–50%.
Ready to Take Action? Contact Us Today!
When it comes to addressing low humidity issues in your home, you want a reliable and trusted solution. That’s where we come in. With years of expertise and a reputation for excellence, we offer a range of high-quality whole-house humidifiers tailored to your needs.
Don’t let dry winter air compromise your health and comfort. Our team of experts can provide you with a consultation, helping you choose the right whole-house humidifier to address your specific needs. Say goodbye to the problems of dry winter air and hello to a more comfortable and enjoyable winter season!
Reach out to Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning for solutions to your winter indoor air quality problems. Serving Colorado Springs and the surrounding area.
