Adults take about 23,000 breaths everyday. Do you know if the quality of the air you are breathing is enough? As spring approaches, it’s a perfect situation to evaluate your home’s indoor air quality. We still have a lot of cool days in the future and colder air retains a decreased amount of moisture. This dry air is not only uncomfortable, but it can take a toll on your health and your house.
Low Humidity Ups Your Chances of Getting Sick
That you catch a cold because it’s cold 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 are unable to do their task of cleaning out germs. This heightens the possibility of getting sick with the flu, cold or a similar illness.
Dry Air Hurts Your Skin
In the West Valley City winter, you may notice your skin feels dry and itchy. Lack of humidity is the problem. Lotion can help you treat the symptoms, but investing in a whole-home humidifier could provide a remedy the actual problem.
Damages to Your Home
The lower amounts of moisture in your home’s air can also damage the wood in your home—baseboards, floors, furniture—because the air pulls moisture from these items. You could even end up with cracks in the walls and floors.
Watching for Dry Air
While itchy skin and a continuous cold are tips that your indoor air may be dry, there are some other symptoms to watch for as well:
- An increase in static electricity
- Cracks in your home’s flooring
- Gaps 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 are here to offer our expertise! Contact our indoor air professionals at Select Comfort Systems Heating & Air Conditioning.