The Problem with Dry Air

April 19, 2016

Adults take approximately 23,000 breaths each day. Can you tell if the quality of the air you’re breathing is enough? As spring gets closer, it’s a perfect time to review your home’s indoor air quality. We will still have cool days coming up and colder air holds a decreased amount of moisture. This dry air is not only uncomfortable, but it can impact your health and your residence.

Low Humidity Heightens Your Chances of Getting Sick

That you catch a cold because of the colder weather outside is an old wives’ tale… but there is some truth to it. As we mentioned, 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 sifting out germs. This enhances the possibility of your family getting a cold, the flu or another infection.

Dry Air Harms Your Skin

In the Fort Lauderdale winter, you may see that your skin is dry and itchy. Shortage of humidity is the problem. Lotion can be a solution to treat the symptoms, but putting an investment towards a whole-home humidifier could solve the actual problem.

Damages to Your Home

The lower amounts of moisture in your home’s air can also affect the wood in your home—baseboards, floors, furniture—because the air pulls moisture from these items. You might even see cracks in the walls and floors.

Evaluating for Dry Air

While itchy skin and a continuous 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
  • Gaps in your home’s trim and molding
  • Peeling wallpaper

Any of these problems signify that it’s probably time to assess your indoor air quality. We can help! Contact our indoor air professionals at Solar Air Inc. .