Adults take approximately 23,000 breaths a day. Can you tell if the quality of the air you are breathing is good? As spring approaches, it’s a perfect occasion to review your home’s indoor air quality. We have plenty cool days ahead of us and colder air absorbs a lower amount of moisture. This dry air is not only uncomfortable, but it can impact your health and your residence.
Low Humidity Increases Your Chances of Getting Sick
That you get a cold because it’s cold outside is an old wives’ tale… but there is a little truth to it. As we said, cold air is drier and dry air can result in some health issues. The mucous membranes in your nose and sinuses dry out when humidity is lower, so they’re not doing their job of sifting out germs. This enhances the chances of your family getting an illness.
Dry Air Harms Your Skin
In the Sandpoint winter, you may find your skin is dry and itchy. Shortage of humidity is the issue. Lotion can be a solution to treat the symptoms, but putting an investment towards a whole-home humidifier could fix the actual culprit.
Damages to Your Home
The lack of moisture in your home’s air can also impact the wood around your home—baseboards, floors, furniture—because the air takes moisture from these items. You might even see cracks in the walls and floors.
Watching for Dry Air
Although itchy skin and a never-ending cold are signs that your indoor air is too dry, there are a few other symptoms to keep an eye out for as well:
- An increase in static electricity
- Cracks in your flooring
- Openings in your trim and molding
- Loosening wallpaper
Each of these issues suggest that it’s likely time to take a look at your indoor air quality. We’re happy to help! Call our indoor air professionals at Age Heating & Cooling.