Dry Air in Winter: Combating Low Indoor Humidity

Denver winters are unpredictable, but daytime temperatures average in the 40s with nights dipping below freezing. When cold weather comes, it’s time to turn up the heat. You may have noticed some of the common symptoms of dry air in the house during those Denver cold snaps.

The good news is that there are a few ways to reduce the dryness that can come with cooler weather and using your heater during the winter months.

First, What Are the Health Effects of Dry Air?

Even short-term exposure to dry indoor air can mean an increased risk of catching cold and flu viruses.

Here are other common irritations caused by low indoor humidity:

  • Sore throat
  • Dry and irritated eyes
  • Dry skin
  • Chapped lips
  • Nosebleeds
  • Dehydration
  • Dry, brittle hair

Some of these symptoms may be more pronounced in individuals with asthma, allergies, or other underlying respiratory conditions. In addition to speaking with your healthcare provider, make sure you’re addressing your indoor air quality to reduce the severity of these health issues.

How to Add Humidity to a Room

The good news is that a portable electric humidifier is an easy way to quickly add humidity to any space. These devices use minimal electricity and can be placed in the rooms where you spend the most time, such as your home office or bedroom. However, they require some upkeep: It’s essential to clean them regularly to prevent mildew buildup.

Or you could make things a little easier on yourself by having a whole-house humidifier installed alongside your furnace. A whole-house humidifier provides steady, constant humidity throughout the home every time the furnace runs. It’s one simple solution to allergy and asthma symptoms, dry skin, static electricity, and other seasonal irritations.

How to Add Moisture to the Air Without a Humidifier

There are a few easy ways to add moisture without spending money on a humidifier. Learn how to prevent dryness from heater or furnace use:

  • Place small bowls of water on or near air duct vents. The warm air from vents will accelerate evaporation and pull moisture into the air.
  • Boil water. Steaming or boiling food releases plenty of water vapor into the air. Try steaming veggies on the stove and making pasta or rice dishes regularly throughout the heating season.
  • Shower with the door open. While not always possible (we all like our privacy!), showering with the door open releases warm, moist air into other areas of your home. This is especially effective in an owner’s suite, which puts humid air in your bedroom.
  • Get a dryer vent deflector. With the flip of a lever, these simple devices blow warm, moist air from your dryer into your home. In the summer, just close the vent to move dryer air back outside.

Experiment with these ideas to find what’s most impactful in your home. Like a portable humidifier, focus these efforts on the spaces or rooms you spend the most time in for the best results.

Stay Comfortable All Year Long with One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning of Denver

When winter weather arrives in Denver, enjoy it in comfort. You can count on our expert HVAC technicians for punctual, reliable service and expert advice. From efficient heating and cooling to air quality insights, we’re always ready to help a neighbor. Book online or reach out to our HVAC in Denver by calling us at (303) 622-3401 today!