Humidifiers help keep the air moist. But, most people are confused when it comes to using them. When should I start using one for optimal results?
Static in your hair and the sparks that fly when you’re touched are signs that your house is too dry. A humidifier can help improve air quality and prevent respiratory illnesses.
Even if you don’t have any medical problems, dry air can still affect your respiratory system. According to Dr. Anne Marie Fitzpatrick, it can cause coughing and sleeping problems.
The EPA advises keeping the humidity in your home at least 30%. It also warns against the use of filtered water.
When Should Humidifiers Be Used?
Humidifiers need to be used if the humidity levels are not optimal that may cause harmful effects on your skin and body. Mostly it occurs in the winter season which causes dryness of the skin and severe allergic problems. A humidifier can add moisture and provide a healthy environment.
Humidifier For Winter
During the winter months, it’s best to use a humidifier to keep the air in the room fresh and comfortable. Since air quality can improve even after a heater is turned off, a humidifier is also helpful for minimizing the effects of seasonal allergy season. It can also help prevent airborne bacteria and viruses from spreading.
Although warm-mist humidifiers are more effective for cold-weather use, they can also help clear up nasal congestion and other respiratory conditions.
However, they should be used with caution since they can affect the room temperature and cause inflammation. On the other hand, cold-mist humidifiers can provide the same benefits but are usually used for winter.
Humidifier For Summer
Although humidity levels should be below 30 percent for most seasons, a humidifier can be used during the summer months if the air is already hot and humid.
When Does A Humidifier Is Not Needed?
If your relative humidity level is over 50 percent, then it’s time to avoid using a humidifier. Also, if your humidifier is displaying signs of microbial or fungal infection, then it should not be used. Aside from using a humidifier, you should also check the condition of the unit itself.
A humidifier is a device that uses moisture to improve the humidity in the air. It can help relieve respiratory distress, promote better sleep, and prevent static damage. Unfortunately, improper use can cause a humidifier to rot and decay wooden items.
Related: Can Humidifiers Make You Sick?
Types of Humidifier
Regardless of the type of humidifier that you buy, Dr. Nicolacakis says that everyone should have one in their home. She explained that simply adding a humidifier to your home will help improve your comfort level.
Central Humidifiers
Central humidifiers are great for controlling the humidity in your home. They can also work seamlessly with your air conditioning and heating systems.
Steamer Vaporizer
A steamer vaporizer is an alternative method that uses electricity to cool the water before pushing it into the room.
Evaporators
Although they’re more affordable, they can also cause issues for people with respiratory conditions like asthma. They may also cause mold growth.
Impeller Humidifiers
A good-quality humidifier uses high-speed disks to create cool mist. They are also child-friendly and can be purchased for less than $100.
Unfortunately, they can only work in single rooms. Also, they can cause respiratory issues for people with respiratory conditions like asthma and allergic reactions.
Ultrasonic Humidifiers
With the help of ultrasonic vibration, these units can produce a cool and fresh mist that’s ideal for minimizing humidity.
Depending on the size of your home, a warm or cool mist humidifier can be found. Both are available in different price ranges.
Things To Remember When Using Humidifier
You should also keep an eye on your humidifier to make sure it is working properly.
The water in your humidifier should be changed daily to prevent bacteria and mold from growing in the system.
Too much humidity can also cause various respiratory conditions to worsen. It can also contribute to the development of dust mites and allergic diseases.
A hygrometer can also be used to keep track of the humidity in your home. Having too much humidity can cause your air to feel uncomfortable.
Cautions
High humidity levels can trigger allergic reactions in humans. One of the most common triggers is house dust mites. They can only thrive at humidity levels of around 70 to 80 percent. High humidity can also cause mold to thrive.
Although humidifiers can help lower the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, they can also cause other illnesses if they are not maintained correctly.
Outlook
Ideally, a humidifier should be placed in a space that’s big enough to comfortably cover. You can also choose one that fits in bedrooms or offices.
humidifiers may not cover the entire space in your home. Instead, they should be placed slightly larger than the size they say they will. To determine the humidity level in your home, use a hygrometer.
The only way to ensure that your humidifiers are effective is to regularly clean them. Doing so can help preserve the beneficial effects of the units.
Related: Are Humidifiers Good for You?