See how home humidity levels affect comfort and energy costs during the fall and winter heating season. 

During the cold months too little indoor humidity can feel uncomfortable. As the furnace kicks on, many of us experience dry skin and airways. And it’s not just our bodies that feel the effects of dry air. Wood furniture can warp and leather goods can crack. You may also get zapped more by static electricity in dry air. Here’s how to get your home’s indoor humidity levels right during the heating season.

Check your home’s humidity level

To measure the humidity in your home, use a device called a hygrometer or humidity meter. Small digital versions are available for $15 or less. The Mayo Clinic says the ideal indoor humidity is between 30% and 50%. If your home is under this level, you’ll feel the negative effects of dry air. Keep humidity levels in the ideal range and you’ll breathe easier and avoid itchy skin.

Add moisture with a humidifier

One way to address low humidity levels is by installing a whole-house humidifier on your furnace. These units are hooked up to a water line and add humidity as heated air moves through the furnace. Purchasing the unit and having it installed will likely run $500 to $1,500 but whole-house humidifiers provide comfort and convenience. Maintenance of a whole-house humidifier is simple and just requires a filter replacement every three months.

A second way to raise humidity levels in your home is with a room-sized humidifier that can be placed just about anywhere there’s access to an electric outlet. Many are available for less than $100. Unlike a whole-house humidifier that has a continual water supply, room humidifiers need to be manually refilled with water frequently. How frequently depends on the size of the unit’s water tank, how much space is humidified, and room temperature.

Another stand-alone option is a passive evaporative humidifier. These units require no electricity. They’re placed over or near a forced-air heat vent; as heated air flows through the filter water evaporates and is dispersed in the air. While passive units are economical, they lack the control that comes with whole-house and room humidifiers.

Signs indoor humidity is too high

Evidence of too much humidity often shows up as condensation on the inside of windows. You may also notice a musty smell. In extreme cases, paint may peel and wood materials may swell. If you notice any of these signs of excessive humidity while using a humidifier, set it lower or turn it on less frequently.

Getting humidity levels right helps save on energy costs

When it’s cold, low humidity can make your home feel cooler than it actually is. That’s because the moisture in your skin evaporates and leaves you feeling cold. Raising the humidity to the ideal range of 30%-50% can help save money because water holds heat better than air. With humidified air you won’t feel the need to turn the heat up as high.

 

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