Humidity has the unique ability to make us either comfortable or uncomfortable. While humidity level preferences can differ from person to person, it’s a well-known fact that humidity plays a crucial role in the overall comfort and safety of the air we breathe. In the latest blog post from Novak Heating and Cooling, our technicians discuss “what is a comfortable level of humidity” in your home, as well as ways to raise humidity levels in the winter to improve your home’s comfort.
What is a Comfortable Level of Humidity?
As a general rule of thumb, your home’s humidity levels should be somewhere between 30 to 40% during the heating season. This is both a comfortable and healthy amount of humidity. If your home resides below 30% humidity in the winter, it can lead to health issues and even damage your furniture, floors, and walls.
Symptoms of Low Humidity
Issues caused by low humidity can go beyond just discomfort; they can also be dangerous. For those who suffer from asthma or allergies, dry air isn’t giving them the quality of air they need to breathe properly. In fact, breathing in too much dry air can actually lead to asthma attacks.
Additionally, low humidity levels create an environment in which viruses and germs can thrive in. You’ll probably notice symptoms consistent with dry air, such as chapped lips, nose bleeds, dry skin and hair, or cold and flu symptoms.
Low humidity can also cause wood floors, millwork, and furniture to crack, as well as paint to chip.
How to Raise Humidity
In the winter months, low humidity levels can make your house feel much colder. Many homeowners, in an attempt to remedy the lower temperatures, will crank up their heating system. While this might provide a temporary boost to your comfort, it will drive up your energy prices and not provide a long-term solution to the problem.
In reality, homes suffering from low humidity levels should consider the addition of a whole-home humidifier. These systems provide a needed boost of moisture to your home’s air supply, creating safer and more comfortable air.
Humidifiers from Novak Heating and Cooling
If your home is being impacted by low humidity, Novak Heating and Cooling can provide the fix. Our reliable and trustworthy HVAC technicians will inspect your home and provide you with the best humidifier for your family’s specific needs. They’ll then expertly install your new Carrier® humidifier in a timely and efficient manner.
Contact Novak for Indoor Air Quality Services
Novak Heating and Cooling provides humidifier services to homes and businesses in Cedar Rapids, IA, and beyond. We’ve provided the residents of Cedar Rapids with quality heating, cooling, and indoor air quality services since 1934. For indoor air quality services that your home or business can depend on – including humidifiers, air cleaners, and more – get in contact with us today.