Adults take approximately 23,000 breaths a day. Do you know if the quality of the air you are breathing is good? As spring arrives, it’s a great time to assess your home’s indoor air quality. We still have a lot of cool days in the future and colder air retains less moisture. This dry air is not only uncomfortable, but it can take a toll on your health and your home.
Low Humidity Heightens Your Chances of Getting Sick
That you attain a cold because of the colder weather outside is an old wives’ tale… but there is a little truth 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 decreased, so they’re not doing their job of sifting out germs. This enhances your chances of coming down with a cold, the flu or another infection.
Dry Air Damages Your Skin
In the Bartlesville winter, you might notice your skin seems 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 culprit.
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 notice cracks in the walls and floors.
Watching for Dry Air
Even though itchy skin and a continuous cold are tips that your indoor air is lacking moisture, there are some other symptoms to look for as well:
- An increase in static electricity
- Cracks in your home’s flooring
- Spaces in your home’s trim and molding
- Loosening wallpaper
Each of these issues signify that it’s probably time to review your indoor air quality. We’re happy to help! Reach out to our indoor air professionals at Farris Heating & Air.