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Humidifiers Provide Consistent Comfort Year-round

Quick discussion on humidity and humidifiers. When we talk about air quality, the first thing that comes to mind is pollutants or particulates floating in the air that can cause respiratory problems in humans and pets alike. However, one of the real dangers to your health, and the preservation of your home, is humidity. Humidity is usually expressed as a percentage and is calculated by measuring the air-to-moisture ratio in a given atmosphere. This means that if the mass of water is equal to the mass of air in a given volume the humidity would be 100%.

The most common danger to human and pet health is usually associated with higher levels of humidity.

These dangers come in the form of mold and harmful airborne bacteria that are prone to germinate in tropical conditions (64° or above at 77-88% humidity). In addition, higher moisture levels confuse the body’s main method to exhaust heat which is sweat. Higher moisture causes the sensory system to tell the brain that the skin it is sweating more, thus the environmental temperature must be higher. This can cause discomfort but also excess perspiration and even dehydration. Perceived temperatures can fluctuate as much as ten degrees fahrenheit which will make a 75 degree environment feel like an 85 degree environment.

The lesser but equally associated danger to both health and home is dry or less humid air. Similarly to excess humidity, low or arid humidity can also cause dehydration which is far more noticeable in the form of chapped lips, cracked hands and feet, and generally dry skin. In contrast to excess humidity, an arid environment can cause the perceived temperature to be up to ten degrees lower than reality.

Chances are that if your home was built in the last two centuries, the materials used to construct your beloved abode are sensitive to the amount of moisture in the air. This means that the studs, beams, subfloor, drywall, cabinets, and even paint are susceptible to cracking, swelling, and warping when the humidity reaches above or below normal ranges. Same goes for wood furniture components, musical instruments, and hardwood floors or trim.

Arid conditions are especially heinous in mountainous regions as the seasons change and winter approaches.

Contrary to popular belief, normal activities like cooking and showering only temporarily raise or lower humidity and in no way can be used as a permanent air quality solution. One of the easiest and most effective solutions is an inline humidifier. Inline, or whole-home humidifiers, are professionally installed directly into your home’s central heating and cooling system for an out-of-sight out-of-mind air quality solution. Like your thermostat, most systems are intuitive to your home’s environment and will only run when needed for consistent comfort, year-round.

Sanders & Johnson has over 40 years of experience both testing air quality and installing inline humidifier systems and would love to help you achieve ultimate comfort in your home. Call us today to schedule your complimentary installation estimate at 303-422-6606. After business hours? Head to the Contact Us page on our website to get in touch.

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