During the cold winter months, many homeowners crank up the heat to stay warm and cozy. But some notice that indoor air feels drier when the furnace is running. So does turning on the heater reduce humidity in your home? In short, yes – heaters tend to lower indoor humidity levels.
However, the relationship between heat and humidity is complex. Read on as we take a detailed look at why heaters dehumidify the air and steps you can take to find the right balance of warmth and moisture during winter.
How Heaters Affect Humidity
Heat Drives Moisture Out of the Air
When heaters are turned on, they generate heat by either burning fuel or using electricity. This heat can have a significant impact on the humidity levels in a room or an entire house. As the temperature rises, the heat drives moisture out of the air, resulting in lower humidity levels.
This is because warm air has the ability to hold more moisture than cold air.
According to studies conducted by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), the relative humidity in a room can drop by about 5% for every 10°F increase in temperature.
So, if you set your heater to increase the room temperature by 20°F, you can expect the relative humidity to decrease by approximately 10%. This reduction in humidity can have both positive and negative effects, depending on the circumstances.
Warm Air Holds More Moisture
While heaters can reduce humidity levels, it’s important to note that warm air has the capacity to hold more moisture. So, even though the relative humidity may decrease with the use of heaters, the actual amount of moisture in the air may remain the same or even increase slightly.
This is why it’s crucial to strike a balance between temperature and humidity levels to ensure optimal comfort. Using a humidifier alongside a heater can help maintain a comfortable level of humidity in the air, preventing dryness and discomfort.
Furnace Heat Is Very Dry
One important thing to keep in mind is that the heat generated by furnaces tends to be very dry. This is because furnace heat is often derived from combustion, which can deplete the moisture content in the air.
As a result, the humidity levels in a room or house can drop significantly when a furnace is in use.
If you rely on a furnace for heating, it’s essential to take steps to combat the dryness it can cause. Adding a humidifier to your home can help restore moisture to the air, ensuring a more comfortable and healthier environment.
It’s worth noting that excessive dryness in the air can lead to various issues such as dry skin, dry eyes, respiratory problems, and even damage to wooden furniture and musical instruments. Therefore, it’s important to monitor and control humidity levels when using heaters, especially those that generate dry heat.
For more information on humidity, heating, and indoor air quality, you can visit the website of the Environmental Protection Agency (www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq) or the ASHRAE website (www.ashrae.org).
Ideal Indoor Humidity Levels
When it comes to indoor humidity levels, it is important to maintain a balance. The ideal range recommended by experts is between 30% and 50%. This range provides a comfortable environment for both humans and their belongings.
30% – 50% Humidity is Recommended
Maintaining a humidity level between 30% and 50% offers numerous benefits. Within this range, the air is neither too dry nor too moist, creating a pleasant and healthy living environment. Humidity levels within this range help to prevent dry skin, irritated nasal passages, and static electricity.
Additionally, it helps to preserve wooden furniture, musical instruments, and artwork, which can be damaged by extreme levels of humidity.
During the winter months, when the heating system is often in use, the air indoors tends to become drier. This is because heaters, especially those that use forced air, can reduce the humidity levels in a room.
To counteract this, it is recommended to use a humidifier to add moisture back into the air and maintain the ideal humidity range.
On the other hand, during the summer months, when the outdoor humidity is high, it can also affect indoor humidity levels. This is when air conditioning systems play a role in reducing the humidity indoors.
Air conditioners not only cool the air but also remove excess moisture, helping to maintain a comfortable and healthy environment.
Low Humidity Causes Dry Air Problems
When the indoor humidity levels drop below 30%, it can lead to several dry air problems. Dry air can cause discomfort, such as dry skin, dry eyes, and dry throat. It can also worsen respiratory conditions, such as asthma and allergies.
In addition, low humidity can lead to static electricity, which can be a nuisance and cause damage to electronic devices.
To combat low humidity, especially during the winter months, using a heater with a built-in humidifier can be a great solution. These types of heaters add moisture back into the air as they heat, helping to alleviate the dry air problems associated with low humidity.
High Humidity Causes Mold and Mildew
When the indoor humidity levels exceed 50%, it can create an environment that is conducive to the growth of mold and mildew. High humidity can lead to dampness in areas such as bathrooms, basements, and kitchens, which can promote the growth of these harmful substances.
To prevent the occurrence of mold and mildew, it is important to have proper ventilation in these areas. Using exhaust fans, opening windows, and using dehumidifiers can help to reduce the humidity levels and prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
By maintaining the ideal indoor humidity levels, between 30% and 50%, you can create a comfortable and healthy living environment. Whether it’s using a humidifier during the dry winter months or implementing proper ventilation to prevent mold and mildew during the humid summer months, it’s important to take the necessary steps to keep the humidity levels in check.
Tips to Manage Humidity When Heating Your Home
Humidity levels can be a concern during the colder months, especially when heating your home. While heaters do help to increase the overall temperature, they can also decrease humidity levels. Here are some tips to manage humidity when heating your home:
1. Use a Humidifier
One effective way to combat low humidity levels is by using a humidifier. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, helping to maintain a comfortable humidity level in your home. You can choose from different types of humidifiers, such as warm mist or cool mist, depending on your preference and needs.
Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use and maintenance of the humidifier.
2. Adjust Furnace Fan Settings
The fan settings on your furnace can also play a role in managing humidity. By setting the fan to “on” instead of “auto,” the fan will continuously circulate air throughout your home. This can help to distribute moisture evenly and prevent dry spots.
However, keep in mind that running the fan constantly may increase energy consumption.
3. Group Activities in Less Used Rooms
Another way to manage humidity levels is to concentrate activities in less used rooms. When people gather in a room, they naturally release moisture through breathing and perspiration. By confining these activities to specific rooms, you can increase humidity levels in those areas without affecting the entire house.
4. Use Products to Absorb Moisture
In areas where excess humidity is a problem, you can use products that absorb moisture, such as dehumidifiers or moisture absorbers. These products are designed to remove excess moisture from the air, helping to maintain a balanced humidity level.
Remember to empty or replace these products regularly to ensure their effectiveness.
5. Cook, Shower, and Clean to Add Moisture
Everyday activities like cooking, showering, and cleaning can add moisture to the air. When heating your home, take advantage of these activities to naturally increase humidity levels. Leave bathroom doors open after showering to allow steam to disperse throughout the house.
Similarly, cooking and boiling water on the stove can also help to add moisture to the air.
Managing humidity levels when heating your home is essential for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. By following these tips, you can strike a balance between warmth and humidity, ensuring a cozy and healthy living space.
Signs Your Home is Too Dry in Winter
Winter can bring cold temperatures and dry air, and it’s important to maintain a comfortable level of humidity in your home. Dry air can have negative effects on both your health and your home. Here are some signs that your home may be too dry during the winter months:
Dry Skin and Sinuses
One of the most common signs of low humidity in your home is dry skin and sinuses. When the air is dry, it can cause your skin to become dry, itchy, and even cracked. Your sinuses can also become dry, leading to discomfort, congestion, and an increased risk of sinus infections.
If you find yourself constantly applying lotion or experiencing nasal dryness, it may be a sign that your home is too dry.
Cracked Wood
Another telltale sign of low humidity in your home is cracked wood. Dry air can cause wooden furniture, flooring, and even musical instruments to crack and split. This is especially true if the wood is not properly moisturized or sealed.
If you notice cracks in your furniture or see that your wooden floors are starting to separate, it’s a good indication that the air in your home is too dry.
Static Electricity
Static electricity is a common occurrence during the winter months, and it’s often a result of low humidity. When the air is dry, it allows for the buildup of static electricity. This can lead to annoying shocks when you touch doorknobs or other objects.
If you find yourself constantly getting shocked or notice that your clothes are sticking to you, it’s a sign that your home could benefit from a humidifier to increase the humidity level.
Nosebleeds
Low humidity can also contribute to frequent nosebleeds. When the air is dry, it can cause the delicate skin inside your nose to become dry and cracked, leading to nosebleeds. If you or your family members are experiencing nosebleeds on a regular basis, it may be a sign that the humidity in your home needs to be increased.
Remember, maintaining the right level of humidity in your home is important for both your health and the longevity of your belongings. If you’re experiencing any of these signs, consider investing in a humidifier or other methods to increase the humidity in your home.
Your skin, sinuses, and furniture will thank you!
When to Call a Professional
If Humidity Drops Below 30%
If you notice that the humidity level in your home drops below 30%, it may be time to call a professional. Low humidity can cause a range of issues, including dry skin, respiratory problems, and damage to wooden furniture and flooring.
While heaters can help reduce humidity to a certain extent, if the levels drop too low, it can become uncomfortable and unhealthy. A professional can assess the situation and provide solutions to maintain a healthy humidity level in your home.
Signs of Insufficient Ventilation
If you experience signs of insufficient ventilation, such as condensation on windows, musty odors, or mold growth, it is advisable to seek assistance from a professional. Poor ventilation can lead to high humidity levels, which can contribute to the growth of mold and mildew.
These can cause various health issues, including respiratory problems and allergies. A professional can evaluate your ventilation system and recommend appropriate measures to improve air circulation and reduce humidity.
Furnace Isn’t Humidifying Properly
If you have a furnace that is not humidifying properly, it is best to consult a professional. A malfunctioning humidifier can result in inadequate moisture in the air, leading to discomfort and potential health problems.
A professional can inspect your furnace and identify any issues that may be affecting its humidification capabilities. They can then provide the necessary repairs or recommend a replacement if needed.
Remember, maintaining the right humidity level in your home is crucial for your comfort and well-being. If you notice any of these signs or have concerns about your home’s humidity, don’t hesitate to call a professional for assistance.
Conclusion
Heaters can definitely reduce humidity in your home by warming cold, dry outside air. This very dry air pulls moisture out of furnishings, wood and even your body. With some adjustments like using a humidifier, tweaking furnace settings and adding moisture through cooking and cleaning, you can strike the right balance for comfort.
Monitor humidity levels and watch for signals that your indoor air is too dry. With a little vigilance, you can stay cozy without going to extremes this winter.
