The Problem with Dry Air

April 19, 2016

Adults take around 23,000 breaths everyday. Are you sure if the quality of the air you’re breathing is enough? As spring arrives, it’s a perfect time to review your home’s indoor air quality. We will still have cool days coming up and colder air retains a decreased amount of moisture. This dry air is not only uncomfortable, but it can impact your health and your house.

Low Humidity Heightens Your Chances of Getting Sick

That you get a cold because of the colder weather 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 challenges. The mucous membranes in your nose and sinuses dry out when humidity is decreased, so they can’t do their function of cleaning out germs. This heightens your chances of getting a cold, the flu or another infection.

Dry Air Hurts Your Skin

In the Northglenn winter, you might notice your skin is dry and itchy. Lack of humidity is the problem. Lotion can be a solution to treat the symptoms, but investing in a whole-home humidifier could fix the actual issue.

Damages to Your Home

The lower humidity in your home’s air can also affect 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.

Evaluating for Dry Air

While itchy skin and a perpetual cold are signs that your indoor air may be dry, there are additional symptoms to watch for as well:

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

Any of these problems signify that it’s probably time to take a look at your indoor air quality. We can help! Contact our indoor air professionals at Northglenn Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc..