Temperatures are falling as we move deeper into the fall and closer to winter. Now is the time to prepare our homes and heating systems for the rigors of another Skokie, IL cold season. That means you should have professional heating maintenance scheduled (if you haven’t done so already) and take care of replacing old heaters if they are no longer working well.
However, here is another home improvement you should think about for the winter: installing a whole-house humidifier.
Why humidifiers are helpful during the winter
Summer heat feels better when the air is a bit drier. (“But it’s a dry heat!” We’ve all heard that before.) But the situation is the opposite when it comes to the cold. The presence of excess moisture in the air makes it more difficult for the human body to release heat through perspiration, since perspiration evaporates slower in a humid environment. This is why a hot day feels even hotter because of high humidity. But when there is low moisture in the air (below 30% relative humidity), heat escapes from the body quicker, and that makes cold temperatures feel even chillier. A 30°F day will feel like a 20°F day.
A humidifier in your home that raises relative humidity to the region between 30% and 60% (which is considered balanced humidity) will help you feel more comfortable during winter temperatures. And when everyone in your home feels warmer, you won’t need to run your heater as often. In general, balanced humidity will mean saving 25% off your seasonal heating bills.
Call professionals for a whole-house humidifier
Although you can buy portable humidifiers for rooms, these are only temporary solutions. For the full benefit of balanced humidity, invest in a professionally installed whole-house dehumidifier. Indoor air quality experts will see that the humidity is balanced and doesn’t become too damp.
If you would like to have a humidifier installed in your home, call Malek Heating & Cooling today.