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The Benefits of a Whole-House Humidifier
Dry air, especially in the winter months, can cause a number of problems to a homeowner. It can cause health issues such as increased allergy symptoms, respiratory problems and dry skin. It can also draw moisture out of porous materials such as wood, which includes furniture, wood floors, pianos and woodwork, resulting in dry, cracked wood. One way to fight dry air is by installing a whole-house humidifier.
The purpose of a whole-house humidifier is to maintain a constant level of humidity to the air inside your home. The unit is installed onto your forced air furnace system and is set up on a humidistat, which allows you to select and monitor the humidity level. As your furnace kicks on, the humidity is evenly distributed throughout every room in the home through your duct work, adding moisture only when it is needed.
A Whole-House Humidifier Versus a Room Unit
Many room humidifiers do not have regulators to stop the humidification process when the proper humidity level has been reached. Too much humidity can increase the chance of dust mites, mildew and mold.
A room unit also requires more maintenance. The water tanks and other parts of the unit must be cleaned often to prevent bacteria and mold buildup.
In comparison, most whole-house humidifier will only need maintenance once a year to remove mineral deposits left by the evaporated water. Usually no other maintenance is required.
A Whole-House Humidifier is Cost Effective
Room units usually require distilled water, which needs to be purchased separately. Whole-house humidifiers are plumbed into your household water system, so you never need to purchase special water. It only adds a few cents per month to your water bill. Humid air also feels warmer than dry air at the same temperature, so you can set your comfort level a few degrees lower than normal, saving you money on your power bill as well.
