Dry Air Problems? We Have a Solution!

Dry air can cause respiratory problems and increased allergy symptoms for many people, especially during the cold Utah winters. Dry air in your home can draw moisture out of porous materials like wood, including furniture, woodwork, wood floors, pianos, and other musical instruments. It makes the air temperature feel cooler than humidified air so you might find yourself setting your thermostat higher to reach the same comfort level.

Two main types of humidifiers are commonly used to alleviate these dry air conditions. Room units are small and portable, while whole-house humidifiers are permanently installed with your central heating and cooling system. We find more and more homeowners are installing whole-house humidifiers and these are the reasons why:

Convenience

Once a whole-house humidifier has been installed on your forced air furnace system, you can set the humidity level and forget about it. A whole-house humidifier operates with a hygrometer to measure the humidity level, and it automatically humidifies the air as your furnace warms it, distributing it to every room through your ductwork.

Humidity Level

A whole-house unit monitors the humidity level, adding moisture only when it is needed and limits the level of humidity to the setting you select. Many room units do not have regulators to stop the humidification process when the proper humidity level has been reached. Too much humidity can increase mold, mildew and dust mites.

Maintenance

In a room humidifier, the water tanks and other parts must be cleaned often to prevent mold and bacteria buildup. In contrast, a whole-house humidifier will need cleaning once or twice a year to remove white dust mineral deposits left by the evaporated water. A simple water filter exchange is usually the only maintenance necessary. Technicians from Western Heating & Air Conditioning change those filters regularly as part of their annual maintenance routine on the heating equipment.

Health

The even humidity level maintained by a whole-house humidifier keeps the air you breathe healthier, no matter which room you are in. Dry air can aggravate sinus problems and cause nose bleeds, and it can encourage the spread of some viruses that cause respiratory illness. Humidified air can help reduce snoring for some people, and it reduces chapped lips, dry throat, static hair, and dry skin.

Comfort

Humid air feels warmer than dry air at the same temperature. Western Heating & Air Conditioning recommends adding a whole-house humidifier to your furnace. The humidified, heated air allows you to keep your thermostat set several degrees lower while you enjoy the same comfort level throughout your home. A lowered thermostat helps you save money on your heating bill.

Operating Cost

Room humidifiers need expensive distilled water to operate at maximum efficiency. A whole-house humidifier is plumbed into your household water system, so you never need to purchase special water. It may only add a few cents per month to your water bill.

A whole-house humidifier is a perfect gift that will contribute to the comfort and health of your family. It is an affordable investment that will keep your family healthy and smiling through the holiday season and the rest of the winter. To learn more or have a whole-house humidifier installed in your home, call the Comfort Certified Experts at Western Heating & Air Conditioning at (801) 224-8899.