3 Tips to Improve Humidity in Winter
The old saying, It’s not the heat, it’s
the humidity, applies as much in the winter as it does in the summer. However, in summer, the humidity is often too high. Because warmer air holds more moisture, as the temperature rises, the air is heavier with moisture, making the heat feel more oppressive. In the winter, on the other hand, the humidity is naturally lower since cold air is able to contain less moisture. The result? Dry air that irritates the eyes, nose, and throat, causes dry skin, and exacerbates health conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and sinusitis. Dry air can even cause nosebleeds and make snoring worse.
The best way to keep the air at a comfortable level of humidity in the winter is to use a humidifier. However, humidifiers need special care. Follow these 3 tips to make sure you benefit from properly humidified air all winter, without adding additional risk.
1. Monitor the humidity
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), humidity should be between 30% and 50% indoors. Outside of those limits, the humidity will negatively impact health. How do you know how much humidity is in your home? Use a humidity meter, called a hygrometer. Some humidifiers have built in hygrometers, but if yours doesn’t, you should buy a separate meter.
2. Use purified or distilled water in your humidifier
Tap water and unfiltered water contain minerals and other particles that can cause your humidifier to wear out more quickly. Moreover, people and pets can inhale these unwanted components of unfiltered water, leading to health problems.
3. Clean your humidifier regularly
Check the manufacturer’s instructions on how often your humidifier needs to be cleaned. Cleaning it less frequently or not as thoroughly as the manufacturer recommends will lead to the growth of bacteria in the water, bacteria that your house’s inhabitants will end up inhaling.
At Atlantic Coast Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, in Lakewood, NJ, our priority is to keep our residents healthy and happy. That includes not only ensuring proper levels of humidity in the air year-round, but also offering skilled, attentive staff; stimulating activities; and delicious, nourishing meals meals tailored to each residents dietary needs. We provide all of this in a positive and upbeat atmosphere.
Read our reviews on senioradvisor.com, caring.com, and wellness.com to hear what our residents and their families have to say.
Or better yet, come see for yourself: Contact us to schedule a tour by calling 732-364-7100, or by clicking here.