Adults take about 23,000 breaths a day. Do you know if the quality of the air you are breathing is good? As spring gets closer, it’s a perfect time to review your home’s indoor air quality. We still have a lot of cool days ahead of us and colder air absorbs 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 some truth to it. As we said, cold air is drier and dry air can result in some health problems. The mucous membranes in your nose and sinuses dry out when humidity is low, so they can’t do their task of sifting out germs. This enhances the chances of your family getting a cold, the flu or another infection.
Dry Air Hurts Your Skin
In the Mobile winter, you might find your skin feels dry and itchy. Shortage of humidity is the issue. Lotion can help to treat the symptoms, but investing in a whole-home humidifier could provide a remedy the actual issue.
Damages to Your Home
The lack of moisture in your home’s air can also affect the wood throughout your home—baseboards, floors, furniture—because the air takes moisture from these items. You could even end up with 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 some other symptoms to watch for as well:
- An increase in static electricity
- Cracks in your home’s flooring
- Spaces in your trim and molding
- Peeling wallpaper
Any of these problems indicate that it’s probably time to take a look at your indoor air quality. We can help! Contact our indoor air professionals at Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc.