Maintaining Proper Humidity Levels Can Help Protect Your Health Through the Winter

One of the first indications that fall is coming is the barrage of flu shot posters that go up at virtually every doctor’s office, clinic, and pharmacy stressing the importance of getting your annual flu shot. And while getting your flu shot is an important component of protecting your health, there’s another important component you may be missing. The humidity level of the air in your home can impact your health in a number of ways.

Most of us tend to only think of humidity levels as a problem during the summer when high humidity levels leave us feeling sticky and uncomfortable. But too-low humidity levels common in the fall and winter can also be detrimental. Dry air can contribute to a number of health problems, including nose bleeds, sore throats, sinus problems, chapped lips, dry and itchy skin, and skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis. It can also aggravate asthma and allergy symptoms.

But the effects of inadequate humidity go well beyond discomfort. Low humidity can cause or exacerbate a range of serious illnesses and health conditions. Many allergens and viruses, including those that cause the flu, can survive longer in drier environments. The drier air also dries out your mucus membranes, which defends your body from germs and illnesses, leaving you more vulnerable to infections and illnesses.

Adding a whole home humidifier to your home is a great way to help keep your family healthy during the winter. The humidifier is installed directly into your HVAC system, allowing water vapor to be delivered throughout your house through the heating ducts. A thermostat allows you to adjust the level of humidity to ensure the right level of moisture is distributed evenly throughout your home. Maintaining the proper humidity level in your home will reduce the number of allergens and viruses your family is exposed to and keep them healthy to fight off those they come in contact with away from home. By adding a whole home humidifier, you and your family will literally be able to breathe a little easier this winter.