The Problem with Dry Air

April 19, 2016

Adults take approximately 23,000 breaths everyday. Are you sure if the quality of the air you are breathing is enough? As spring approaches, it’s an ideal situation to assess your home’s indoor air quality. We still have a lot of cool days coming up and colder air holds less moisture. This dry air is not only uncomfortable, but it can take a toll on your health and your home.

Low Humidity Ups Your Chances of Getting Sick

That you get a cold because of the colder weather outside is an old wives’ tale… but there is something to it. As we mentioned, cold air is drier and dry air can produce some health challenges. The mucous membranes in your nose and sinuses dry out when humidity is low, so they’re not doing their function of cleaning out germs. This increases the chances of getting a cold, the flu or another infection.

Dry Air Damages Your Skin

In the Georgetown winter, you may notice your skin feels dry and itchy. Shortage of humidity is the issue. Lotion can help you treat the symptoms, but investing in a whole-home humidifier could fix the actual issue.

Damages to Your Home

The lower amounts of moisture in your home’s air can also impact the wood around your home—baseboards, floors, furniture—because the air pulls moisture from these items. You might even see cracks in the walls and floors.

Checking for Dry Air

While itchy skin and a never-ending cold are signs that your indoor air may be dry, there are some other symptoms to watch for as well:

  • A notable increase in static electricity
  • Cracks in the flooring
  • Openings in your home’s trim and molding
  • Cracking wallpaper

Any of these problems suggest that it’s likely time to assess your indoor air quality. We are here to offer our expertise! Reach out to our indoor air professionals at Miller Climate Control LLC.