Most homeowners are primarily concerned with furnace maintenance to keep their families comfortable during the winter, but installing a humidifier is also important. Dry seasonal air can exasperate asthma and sinus issues, and it costs you more money because you’ll actually feel colder. Here are three ways a humidifier will improve your indoor air.

Why Should Homeowners Install Humidifiers Before Winter?

1. Prevent Illness

Dry air actually facilitates the spread of germs and viruses—which is part of the reason the flu is prevalent during the winter. Dry air can also contribute to respiratory problems by drying out your breathing passages, which can cause a cough and sore throat. A humidifier will kill and trap germs and provide more comfortable breathing conditions.

2. Improve Household Energy Efficiency

Dry air feels colder than air that has humidity. As a result, you may be tempted to turn up the thermostat higher than necessary. A humidifier will make the air feel warmer, so you won’t need to run the furnace as often. A rule of thumb is to have the unit set between 30 and 50% humidity.

3. Protect Wood Items

Just like dry air can affect your skin, it can also cause problems for wood furniture and flooring. The loss of moisture can cause wood furniture to crack, and flooring can split or become squeaky. Increasing indoor humidity will prevent these household problems and preserve your wood products.

If you want to install a humidifier for your home, contact Safco Heating & Air Conditioning. Serving Streetsboro, OH since 1995, their licensed, bonded, and insured technicians will provide dependable work that withstands the test of time. To learn more about their humidifier and heating services, visit them online, or call (330) 678-1400 to schedule your unit’s installation.