Winter brings cold, dry air, and your home’s furnace only exacerbates the problem. If you experience dry, itchy skin, a sore throat, nosebleeds and static electricity, your home’s humidity levels are likely too low. A whole-home humidifier can make your home more comfortable in winter and save you money on energy bills. Here’s how:
What’s a whole-home humidifier?
A whole-home humidifier connects to any ducted HVAC system. When your furnace operates, it pushes warm, dry air through the humidifier, which contains a pad saturated with water. The dry air absorbs moisture from the pad, releasing more humid air into your home. A whole-house humidifier can add humidity to homes as large as 390 square metres (4,200 square feet). Most have humidistats that let you control the moisture levels in the air.
Types of whole-home humidifiers
There are three types of whole-home humidifiers:
Bypass humidifiers use your furnace fan to circulate moist air into your home through the ducts. The unit doesn’t operate if the furnace isn’t working. Bypass humidifiers are quiet, perfect for small and medium-sized homes.
Powered humidifiers operate even when the furnace is idle because it has an independent fan. These units are better suited for larger homes and homes with heat pump systems installed
Steam humidifiers contain a water-filled canister and a heating element. It creates steam that travels through the ducts to moisten the air. Steam humidifiers are well suited to larger houses or those in arid climates. Talk to an experienced HVAC contractor to learn which whole-home humidifier is best for you.
Benefits of a whole-house humidifier
Enjoy these benefits of investing in a whole-home humidifier:
Better health. Adding moisture to the air will make your skin less itchy, prevent sore throats and nose bleeds and alleviate allergy symptoms. Air with moderate humidity also reduces the spread of viruses and bacteria, compared to air that is too dry or too moist.
Improved comfort and efficiency. Humid air feels warmer, so you won’t have to set your thermostat as high, saving you money. Plus, your furnace won’t have to work as hard to heat your home, extending its lifespan.
Protect your possessions. Wood furniture, flooring and musical instruments like guitars can warp and crack if the air is too dry. Humidifiers also reduce static electricity and sparks that can damage electronics.
Whole-home humidifiers and furnace repair in Kitchener, Cambridge and Guelph
At Aire One Heating & Cooling, we install, maintain and repair whole-home humidifiers. We can also install and maintain your next high-efficiency Carrier furnace. Contact us today to learn more about our quality products and services in Kitchener, Cambridge, Guelph and the rest of the Tri-Cities area.