How Can I Heat my Home Without Drying Out the Air?

When the temperature outside drops, many of us crank the heat inside. But when the temperature inside rises, the air can dry out. This, paired with the dry air present outside, can dry out your skin and aggravate respiratory issues.

This winter, don’t keep yourself in the cold to avoid drying out your home’s air. You can add moisture to your home’s air while enjoying your heating system by doing the following:

Use an Air Humidifier

You can purchase an electric humidifier online or in nearly any department or box store. Humidifiers add moisture to the air to make the air more comfortable and less likely to cause issues like chapped lips and coughing. If you use an air humidifier, use it to keep the humidity in the air between 30 and 50 percent. Making the air too humid can increase your risk of mold development or dust mites.

Decorate with Bowls of Water

Water-based decorations like hydroponic plants, small fountains, and decorative bowls of water can increase the moisture level in the air because they supply a constant stream of water vapor. When the water evaporates, it goes into the air, reducing the harmful effects dry air can have on your body.

Another way to achieve this effect is to leave the bathtub full after you are done bathing. Simply allow the water to cool and be evaporated into the air.

Seal Up your Home to Keep Energy Costs Low and Dry Air Out

When doors and windows don’t seal completely, cold air from outside can enter the home. You then raise the heat level to keep the house warm, which ends up driving up your energy consumption and drying out the air even more. Walk around your home to find air leaks in your walls, vents, and doors and windows. When you find one, seal it with caulk or weather stripping. Remember to check everywhere, including your attic, basement, and all outdoor areas. Even a small air leak can cause a lot of warm air to exit your home.

Use Water for Multiple Purposes

If you already plan to use water to cook pasta or take a shower, let that water evaporate into the air to raise your home’s humidity levels. When you shower, leave the door open to let the steam out of the bathroom and into the rest of your home.

You don’t have to make pasta to simmer water on the stove. During the cold winter months, consider simmering a pot of water, cloves, and herbs on the stove to add moisture to the air while making your home smell deliciously comfortable.

For a Heating System Repair or Tune-Up, Work with an Experienced HVAC Professional in Manalapan, New Jersey

On dark winter days, a warm home is the most comfortable place to be. Prepare your home and heating system for winter now by scheduling a tune-up with an experienced HVAC professional from Team Electric Plumbing & Air.