The Problem with Dry Air

April 19, 2016

Adults take approximately 23,000 breaths everyday. Do you know if the quality of the air your family is breathing is good? As spring arrives, it’s a perfect time to review your home’s indoor air quality. We still have a lot of cool days in the future and colder air retains a lower amount of moisture. This dry air is not only uncomfortable, but it can affect your health and your home.

Low Humidity Ups Your Chances of Getting Sick

That you catch a cold because cool temps outside is an old wives’ tale… but there is a little truth to it. As we said, cold air is drier and dry air can cause you some health issues. The mucous membranes in your nose and sinuses dry out when humidity is low, so they’re not doing their job of cleaning out germs. This enhances your chances of your family getting sick with the flu, cold or a similar illness.

Dry Air Damages Your Skin

In the Safford winter, you could find your skin seems dry and itchy. Shortage of humidity is the culprit. Lotion can help to treat the symptoms, but investing in a whole-home humidifier could fix the actual culprit.

Damages to Your Home

The lower humidity in your home’s air can also impact the wood throughout your home—baseboards, floors, furniture—because the air takes moisture from these items. You might even notice cracks in the walls and floors.

Evaluating for Dry Air

Even though itchy skin and a perpetual cold are tips that your indoor air is lacking moisture, there are additional symptoms to look for as well:

  • A notable increase in static electricity
  • Cracks in your home’s flooring
  • Gaps in your home’s trim and molding
  • Loosening wallpaper

All of these concerns indicate that it’s likely time to assess your indoor air quality. We’re happy to lend a hand! Contact our indoor air professionals at B&D Air Conditioning.