Most people know that the air gets drier during the winter, but they aren't always sure how to manage it in their homes. Some people just accept that the winter will come with itchy dry skin, nosebleeds and other issues associated with extremely dry air, but there are ways of mitigating some of these issues or increasing the humidity in your home. Here are just a few things you can do to manage dry air in your home this winter.
Use a Humidifier
The best way to stave off uncomfortably dry air during the winter is to invest in a humidifier. Your needs will depend on the size of your home. If you live in a large house, you can have a whole-home humidifier installed as part of your HVAC system. An HVAC installation and repair service will be able to handle this for you. If you live in a smaller apartment or you spend a lot of time in a specific room, you may be able to get by with a small humidifier that affects one room. In any case, you should aim for having a humidity level of 30 to 50 percent if you want your home to be at its most comfortable.
Seal Air Leaks in Your Home
Cold air doesn't retain moisture as well as warm air, which is another reason why dry air is such an issue during the winter. This also means that a drafty home will have particularly dry air. Fortunately, you can help solve this problem by sealing any gaps and leaks that are letting cold air into your home with caulk and weather stripping. Not only will this help keep cold air out of your home, but it will help you save some money on your heating bills.
Schedule a Service Call
In some cases, an HVAC system that is overdue for an inspection or annual maintenance can add to the problem of dry air. To determine if this is the case in your home, calling an air quality or HVAC technician is often a good idea. They will be able to at least tell you what your next step should be, if not install a home humidifier or repair a problematic furnace.
Take Care of Yourself
Finally, you can lessen some of the effects of dry air if you simply take care of yourself. This means drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated, using moisturizer and lip balm to heal cracked skin and lips, and avoid taking particularly hot showers. The steam and hot water in a hot shower can dry out your skin, so use warm water instead.
As the temperatures drop and many of us prepare for the winter season ahead, make sure that your home’s air and heating systems are performing up to par by calling the technicians at Tudi. With air quality testing, heating system maintenance and more, Tudi is able to make sure you have your home prepared for anything this winter may bring. Sign up for our Home Comfort Plan today and keep your home feeling comfortable all year long. No matter what your problem may be, our expert team of technicians has a solution. Contact Tudi today, and let us get started on making your home as comfortable as possible.
