Does Your Home Need a Humidifier?

This is a common question we find people discussing in public and all the pros and cons related to it. But what exactly does a humidifier do to your home?

Let’s crack it down today!

What is a Humidifier?

A humidifier is an electronic appliance which helps to increase the moisture in your room or the entire home. There are a few types of humidifiers but the purpose is the same, to control humidity. If central humidifiers are used to cater to the entire house, these are usually connected to a home’s HVAC system. There exist large humidifiers as well which are used for commercial or industrial setups.

How Do Humidifiers Help?

Humidifiers can definitely help make our living more comfortable and healthy. They effectively treat dry nose, skin, lips, throat irritation, headaches, and dry cough. Humidifiers are also helpful in easing symptoms caused by common cold or flu. Most of these concerns develop during winter months or when an air conditioner is used excessively during summer.

Types of Humidifiers

The right humidifier depends on the size of the area you want to add moisture to, your preferences, and your budget.

Central Humidifiers

The most expensive option, these are built directly into the heating unit and can add humidity to the entire house.

Impeller Humidifiers

Less expensive and very child-friendly, they create cool mist and pose no risk of burns. They work with rotating disks that run at high speeds.

Ultrasonic Humidifiers

Available in both cool and warm mist versions, these produce mist with ultrasonic vibration and come in different sizes and price ranges.

Evaporators

More affordable than central humidifiers, they blow moisture through a moistened filter but typically serve only one room at a time.

Steam Vaporizers

The most inexpensive and portable type, commonly found in drugstores. They are powered electrically, heat water, cool it, and then expel it into the air.

Benefits of Using a Humidifier

There are many benefits associated with using a humidifier in your home. Investing in one is equal to investing in the well-being of your loved ones. Here’s how:

Prevents Health Issues

Using a humidifier well suited for your home can reduce snoring, prevent influenza, and stop dryness of lips, nose, skin, and hair. It also helps reduce allergy and asthma symptoms. Talk to an ARS consultant to learn how humidifiers can help you breathe easier and prevent the spread of airborne viruses.

Benefits Your Home

The right humidifier can help wood floors and furniture last longer, prevent wallpaper from cracking, and reduce static electricity. The extra moisture also benefits houseplants.

Reduces Electricity Bills

According to the Environmental Protection Act of Canada, lowering your thermostat during winter can save up to 4% on heating bills. The ideal humidity level is 25%–40% in winter and under 60% in summer.

Makes You Feel Warmer

Dry air can make you feel colder, while humidified air helps you feel warmer. With more water in the air, sweat evaporates slower, which helps the body retain warmth.

Possible Risks and Drawbacks

It’s important to understand which humidifier is best suited for your home and how to use it correctly.

• Excess humidity can worsen allergic symptoms.
• A dirty water tank may circulate contaminated air .
• Moisture can accumulate on walls and ceilings.
• Steam vaporizers may pose a burn risk.
• Some humidifiers produce noticeable noise.

Tips on Using a Humidifier

• Change the water regularly, don’t let it sit too long.
• Clean the tank frequently.
• Monitor humidity levels.
• Replace filters as needed.
• Use purified or distilled water to avoid mineral buildup.
• Be cautious when using it around children.

Using a humidifier during winter or summer months is a great idea. Choose the best type for your home and set it up before any issues arise for you or your family.