Adults take around 23,000 breaths everyday. Can you tell if the quality of the air you are breathing is enough? As spring arrives, it’s a great time to assess your home’s indoor air quality. We will still have cool days in the future and colder air holds a lower amount of moisture. This dry air is not only uncomfortable, but it can take a toll on your health and your home.
Low Humidity Heightens Your Chances of Getting Sick
That you get a cold because of the colder weather outside is an old wives’ tale… but there is some truth to it. As we said, cold air is drier and dry air can result in some health challenges. The mucous membranes in your nose and sinuses dry out when humidity is decreased, so they’re not doing their job of sifting out germs. This enhances the possibility of getting an illness.
Dry Air Harms Your Skin
In the the Bay Area winter, you could notice your skin seems dry and itchy. Lack of humidity is the culprit. Lotion can be a solution to treat the symptoms, but investing in a whole-home humidifier could fix the actual issue.
Damages to Your Home
The lower humidity in your home’s air can also damage the wood throughout your home—baseboards, floors, furniture—because the air takes moisture from these items. You may even end up with cracks in the walls and floors.
Watching for Dry Air
Although itchy skin and a never-ending cold are indications that your indoor air is lacking moisture, there are additional symptoms to look for as well:
- An increase in static electricity
- Cracks in the flooring
- Openings in your trim and molding
- Loosening wallpaper
Each of these issues indicate that it’s likely time to assess your indoor air quality. We are here to help! Reach out to our indoor air professionals at Contra Costa Heating & AC.