January 3, 2014
The winter season is upon us, and with it will undoubtedly come another round of the flu virus.
Viruses thrive in the winter and your home may be a perfect breeding ground for them. It is important to try and protect your family, especially infants and the elderly, as the flu can cause life-threatening symptoms to them. A whole house humidifier can help protect you and your loved ones from airborne illnesses as well as improve the efficiency of your furnace.
Why Dry Air Can Make You Sick
While a furnace provides heat to your house, it does not add moisture to the air. Cold air is less humid than warm air, so when you combine those two factors you end up with a warm, dry climate inside the house. The air, looking for moisture, will pull as much as it can from you and your family. Throats and noses dry out and your body loses some of its protection from germs. Any germs expelled from coughing or sneezing are quickly distributed throughout your house until they find a new place to grow, usually inside dry throats and nasal passages.
Benefits of a Whole House Humidifier
One solution to keeping your family free from winter viruses is to have a whole-house humidifier integrated into your home’s existing heating and cooling system. The moisture that it emits will help keep dangerous germs from spreading throughout your house. With simple adjustments you can find the moisture level that is most comfortable for all of you.
An added bonus to humidified air is that it feels warmer. By utilizing a whole-house humidifier in the winter you should be able to turn your thermostat down a few degrees, saving you money on utility bills. It is also an appliance that is virtually worry-free. Very little maintenance is required and since it is a part of your heating and cooling system, it draws its water from there, so there are no concerns about it running dry. There is little difference in the cost compared with most portable humidifiers and when partnered with a well-maintained furnace will not make a noticeable dent in your utility bill.
Three Installation Options
You have three different options when considering installing a whole-house humidifier. The first is known as a bi-pass which uses a filter to absorb water and the furnace blower to push that air into your home’s duct system. A power system works with a fan that pulls the air through an evaporator pad. Once moisture is added, the air is then forced into your house. Humidifiers that utilize steam are by far the most effective and efficient. A heater will create the steam that is then dispersed into the ductwork. In order to decide which system is best suited for your house, make an appointment with a local HVAC company.
Keeping your family healthy during this winter season and beyond is probably first on your priority list. Call Scott-Lee Heating Company at (314) 200-0788 to install a whole-house humidifier and give your family the best possible gift, comfort and good health.
Photo credit: gregor_y