The Problem with Dry Air

April 19, 2016

The average person breathes approximately 23,000 times a day. What is the quality of the air you’re breathing? As we move through the colder months and into the start of spring, it’s a great chance to look at your home’s indoor air quality. There are a number of cool days on the horizon and the cooler air means less moisture. Along with the impact dry air has on your home comfort, it can impact your health and your home.

Low Humidity Increases the Likelihood of Getting Sick

Getting a cold doesn’t typically happen colder out. The risk of ending up with a cold may increase because cold air is less humid than warm air. The lack of humidity dries out the mucus membranes that line the nasal and sinus cavities. Those membranes are doing the critical job of monitoring for bacteria and debris and when they dry out they open up and grow your chance of ending up with a cold, the flu or another infection.

Dry Air Damages Your Skin

Our skin is our largest organ, so it makes sense that we should pay close attention to it. If you are feeling extra itchy, lack of humidity may be the issue. Before you head out to begin purchasing lotion in huge volumes, think about investing in a whole-home humidifier instead.

Damages to Your Home

If your indoor air doesn’t have an adequate amount of moisture it will work to pull moisture from the things in your home. This could mean the wood in your home could experience damage and make cracks in the walls and floors.

Checking for Dry Air

Apart from itchy skin and a perpetual cold there are a handful of ways to assess how much moisture is in your home, including:

  • An uptick in static electricity
  • Cracks in your flooring
  • Slits in trim and molding
  • Peeling wallpaper

Any of these problems could mean it’s smart to think about a humidifier and boost your indoor air quality.

Our team wants to make sure those 23,000 breaths you take each day are the best possible. Your health and home should be your top priority. Reach out to our team at 724-425-5852 and talk with one of our indoor air pros to help you identify the best humidity level for your indoor space.