Adults take approximately 23,000 breaths everyday. Are you sure if the quality of the air you are breathing is decent? As spring approaches, it’s an ideal occasion to review your home’s indoor air quality. We still have a lot of cool days ahead of us and colder air absorbs less moisture. This dry air is not only uncomfortable, but it can affect your health and your house.
Low Humidity Ups Your Chances of Getting Sick
That you catch a cold because cool temps outside is an old wives’ tale… but there is something to it. As we noted, 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 task of sifting out germs. This enhances the chances of your family getting a cold, the flu or another infection.
Dry Air Hurts Your Skin
In the Mankato area winter, you might find your skin seems dry and itchy. Lack of humidity is the culprit. Lotion can help to treat the symptoms, but putting an investment towards a whole-home humidifier could solve the actual issue.
Damages to Your Home
The lower humidity in your home’s air can also damage the wood throughout your home—baseboards, floors, furniture—because the air will pull moisture from these items. You might even see cracks in the walls and floors.
Evaluating for Dry Air
Even though itchy skin and a perpetual cold are tips that your indoor air may be dry, there are some other symptoms to look for as well:
- A notable increase in static electricity
- Cracks in your home’s flooring
- Openings in your home’s trim and molding
- Cracking wallpaper
Any of these problems indicate that it’s likely time to assess your indoor air quality. We can offer our expertise! Reach out to our indoor air professionals at Northern Comfort Inc.