The amount of moisture in the air plays a crucial role in how warm or cold you feel and what you perceive to be the temperature in your home. The EPA recommends keeping indoor humidity between 30% and 50% for optimal comfort and energy efficiency. Low humidity levels during the winter will make your home feel cooler, forcing you to turn up the heat and affecting the overall efficiency of your heating system.
Maintaining proper humidity levels during the winter can have many benefits. Properly humidified air feels warmer than dry air, allowing you to lower your thermostat slightly without compromising comfort. This will also reduce the need for your furnace or heat pump to run as hard, resulting in lower heating bills. Even lowering the temperature just a degree or two can have a significant impact on your heating bill.
Low humidity during the winter can also cause issues for your home and your family. Excessive dryness can lead to discomfort, including dry skin, nasal and throat irritation, and greater susceptibility to colds and respiratory infections. It can also cause issues with static electricity that can potentially damage electronic equipment. Low humidity can also be hard on wood floors and furniture, causing them to crack, shrink, or warp.
So, what is the most efficient way to manage humidity levels in your home during the winter? Several options are available. Whole-home humidifiers can be installed directly onto your HVAC system to deliver optimal humidity all winter long, and they require little maintenance. Portable humidifiers can be placed throughout your home to elevate humidity levels as well. These units are less expensive but require regular maintenance, including refilling water levels and cleaning them to prevent mold buildup.
No matter which option you choose, making sure your home has the appropriate humidity level this winter will ensure your family stays comfortable while simultaneously saving on your energy bills. Want more information or not sure which solution is the right one for you and your family? Contact Haldeman Mechanical today to get started. Our team can provide you with the expert advice you need. Call us at 717-665-6910 or email us at info@haldemanmechanical.com.