Winter plays havoc with your skin, sinuses, and even your precious heirlooms. Keeping toasty with central heat is hard to resist, but there’s no denying it dries out the air in your home. You may wonder if there are any benefits to a home humidifier system and if adding one is worth the cost.

You may be asking yourself some of the most common questions about a home humidifier system.

Is it Good to Have a Home Humidifier System?

Like most home upgrades, the answer is that it depends. Central air can dry out your home and make your skin feel stretched and itchy. It can also dry out your furniture and damage wood antiques and flooring. It can also cause sinus pain and headaches.

However, whether adding a humidifier to your HVAC system is a good idea depends on how dry your home is now. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that anywhere between 30 to 50 percent is most comfortable.

But the US Department of Energy notes that many factors affect humidity, such as construction, airflow, climate, and even activities in the home.

Do whole house humidifiers cause mold?

A properly installed and operated home humidifier system should not cause mold growth. Mold is a valid concern for many homeowners, as it causes health problems and property damage.

Problems arise when the temperature drops at the same time there is a lot of moisture in the air. This moisture condenses on surfaces, providing a suitable environment for mold growth. So, it’s critical that the controls on any home humidifier system are properly programmed and the system is regularly cleaned.

When should you use a whole house humidifier?

To avoid problems with mold, you should only use your humidifier when your HVAC system is running, particularly the furnace. However, you may find it useful in the warmer months to help alleviate allergy or cold symptoms. You may also find it improves the comfort of your home when the air conditioning dries out your home a bit more than you’d prefer.

What Are the Main Benefits of a Home Humidifier System?

This is just a short list of the positives:

Healthier air

Low humidity environments can increase your chances of becoming ill, as many viruses and bacteria thrive in dry air.

Moisture in the air can also reduce the systems of asthma and allergies.

Décor

Arid environments can reduce the lifespan of many home finishes, from wood to plaster, and including electronics and musical instruments. A home humidifier system can help you preserve your treasures.

Reduced bills

Raising the humidity of your home can make it feel warmer at a lower temperature. That means that lowering your thermostat settings to save money will be more comfortable.

Finding Comfort

Make an appointment today with the experts at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning in Chattanooga for an estimate. We can help you improve winter comfort in your home now and for years to come.