Dry indoor air is a common occurrence during the winter season.
The air inside your home always contains at least some moisture. When the temperature drops, however, so will the air’s moisture content, resulting in low humidity levels.
Fortunately, there are ways to tackle dry indoor air during the winter.
#1) Use a Humidifier
The most effective way to increase your home’s humidity levels during the winter is to use a humidifier.
There are whole-house humidifiers as well as portable humidifiers. Whole-house humidifiers release moisture vapor into your home’s ductwork. In comparison, portable humidifiers are smaller units that you can place in any room.
Regardless, they both work by releasing moisture vapor into the air.
#2) Seal Cracks
A humidifier is only effective at raising the humidity level if your home is sealed.
Cracks provide an escape route for humid indoor air. If the air inside your home is more humid than that of the outdoor air, it will escape through cracks. At the same time, you’ll lose the warmth produced by the furnace.
To create a comfortable home during the winter, you need to seal all cracks. Otherwise, warm and humid air will escape.
#3) Check the Insulation
You should check the insulation in your home. Insulation helps to trap the warm and humid air inside your home.
It serves as a barrier between your home’s interior space and the outside environment. Walls, basements, crawlspaces and attics should be properly insulated.
If your home is missing insulation in these areas – or if it has an insufficient amount of insulation – you’ll need to fill the respective space.
#4) Keep Doors and Windows Closed
Another tip to prevent dry indoor air during the winter is to keep the doors and windows closed.
Cracking a window or leaving a door propped open may sound harmless, but doing so allows dry air to enter your home. Assuming you use a humidifier, this dry air will replace the humid air.
Keeping the doors and windows closed, on the other hand, will trap the warm and humid air inside your home.
#5) Get Your Furnace Inspected
If you’re struggling to maintain a comfortable humidity level in your home during the winter, you should consider getting your furnace inspected by a heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC) system technician.
Problems with your furnace may contribute to excessively dry air. Additionally, older furnaces, such as atmospheric furnaces, are known for producing dry air.
If your home currently uses an atmospheric furnace, the HVAC technician may recommend upgrading to a sealed combustion furnace.
If you are experiencing a problem with your air conditioning or heating call us at 512-336-1431 to schedule an appointment. We’ll be glad to come out and take a look at the issue.
1431-183 A/C & Heating proudly serves Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Leander, Liberty Hill, and North Austin.
