Adults take approximately 23,000 breaths each day. Can you tell if the quality of the air your family is breathing is good? As spring approaches, it’s a great occasion to review your home’s indoor air quality. We will still have cool days in the future and colder air holds 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 attain a cold because cool temps outside is an old wives’ tale… but there is some truth to it. As we said, cold air is drier and dry air can cause you some health problems. The mucous membranes in your nose and sinuses dry out when humidity is decreased, so they are unable to do their function of cleaning out germs. This enhances your chances of coming down with a cold, the flu or another infection.
Dry Air Hurts Your Skin
In the Arlington winter, you might notice your skin is dry and itchy. Absence of humidity is the culprit. Lotion can help you treat the symptoms, but an investment 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 affect the wood throughout your home—baseboards, floors, furniture—because the air will pull moisture from these items. You could even end up with cracks in the walls and floors.
Watching for Dry Air
Although itchy skin and a never-ending cold are tips that your indoor air is too dry, there are some other symptoms to keep an eye out for as well:
- An increase in static electricity
- Cracks in your home’s flooring
- Openings in the molding and trim
- Cracking wallpaper
Any of these problems signify that it’s likely time to review your indoor air quality. We’re happy to lend a hand! Reach out to our indoor air professionals at Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning.