The continual use of a heating system in winter can dry out a home’s indoor air. This dryness may exacerbate allergy symptoms and respiratory complaints associated with colds and flu. One popular solution is a humidifier if ongoing, consistent humidity is preferred. For additional or more temporary results, try these DIY ways to add a bit of moisture to the air.

How to Combat Dry Air Caused by Heating Systems

1. Boil Water

If your heating system has left the house dry, add moisture by boiling large pots of water on the stove. Just be sure to keep an eye on the kitchen stove so pots don’t boil over or run out of water. 

A more gradual method is to use a metal or ceramic bowl of water placed on heat registers or radiators to slowly emit moisture into the air.

2. Leave the Bathroom Door Open

An easy way to add humidity to indoor air is to leave the bathroom door open when showering. This allows moisture to spread to other areas. An open door has the added benefit of lowering the occurrence of mold growth in the bathroom since moisture isn’t trapped in the room.

When you take a bath, leave the water in the tub to cool once you’ve gotten out. Some of the moisture will evaporate into the air. Use caution with this tip if you have kids or pets around. 

3. Air-Dry Clothes & Dishes

If you don’t have a dryer, air-drying clothes in a central area of the house can help disperse moisture as it evaporates from the clothes. The same is true for air-drying dishes in the kitchen. Stop your dishwasher after the rinse cycle and open the door to let moisture out.

4. Get Houseplants

Houseplants add beauty to an indoor environment but also offset dry air by exuding moisture from leaves and stems. Some options, such as spider plants and ferns, may even help to purify the air as well.

If you decide to purchase a humidifier to offset winter dryness, consult Anderson Automatic Heating & Cooling in Cincinnati, OH. They offer the Carrier® humidifier to add moisture to the air in tandem with your heating system. They also offer a full range of HVAC services, maintenance checks, and installations to help keep your home comfortable. Their licensed and bonded technicians continue the customer service excellence started in 1929. Call (513) 574-0005 to learn more about humidifiers or visit the website to see a full range of services.