Health Benefits of a Whole-Home Humidifier

While many people think of air quality items like humidifiers as primarily comfort-related, and they are indeed often quite helpful here, they also have several other potential benefits. One major such area that’s worth considering, especially for people with certain health issues or conditions, is overall health and the way a humidifier can help. 

At Thompson’s Comfort Connection, we’re happy to offer a wide range of indoor air filtration and purification products for clients around Sandy and Draper, including whole-home humidifiers from Aprilaire, an industry leader. Here are some basics on what whole-home humidifiers do, how they may benefit health of occupants in your home or building, and some simple precautions to keep in mind when utilizing one. 

What is a Whole-Home Humidifier?

There are several varieties of humidifier products out there, and one of the most comprehensive and efficient is the whole-home humidifier. These are built directly into your HVAC system, meaning they provide humidity to every room in the house through your existing ducts and vents.

Unlike portable or single-room humidifiers, which only affect a small area at a time, whole-home humidifiers cover your entire living space. They can also be controlled with a thermostat or remote control, allowing for easy adjustment of humidity levels throughout the day. 

Health Benefits of a Whole-Home Humidifier

While dry air can cause discomfort and affect your skin and respiratory system, it can also impact your overall health in more significant ways. Here are some potential benefits of using a whole-home humidifier:

• Relieves congestion: Dry air can lead to nasal congestion and even sinus infections. A whole-home humidifier can add moisture to the air, helping to clear up congestion and prevent further issues.
• Eases allergies: Low humidity levels can irritate allergies, making symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes worse. Using a humidifier can help alleviate these symptoms by keeping the air moist.
• Improves skin health: Dry air can dry out your skin, causing it to become itchy, flaky, and even cracked. A whole-home humidifier adds moisture to the air, helping to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
• Reduces risk of infections: Studies have shown that viruses thrive in low humidity environments. By using a humidifier, you can help reduce the risk of catching a cold or flu.
• Keeps vocal chords healthy: For singers, public speakers, or anyone who uses their voice frequently, a humidifier can help keep your vocal chords lubricated and prevent strain.
• Limits sinusitis: Some studies have shown that using a humidifier may help reduce the frequency and severity of sinus infections.

Precautions when Using a Whole-Home Humidifier

While whole-home humidifiers can provide many benefits, it’s essential to use them responsibly. Here are some precautions to keep in mind:

• Clean regularly: To prevent the growth of bacteria or mold, it’s crucial to clean your humidifier regularly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper cleaning and maintenance.
• Monitor humidity levels: Too much humidity can lead to mold growth or respiratory issues, while too little humidity can cause dry skin and other health concerns. Be sure to monitor humidity levels and adjust your humidifier accordingly.
• Use distilled water: Tap water contains minerals that can be released into the air by your humidifier, leading to white dust buildup. To avoid this, it’s best to use distilled or demineralized water in your humidifier.
• Replace filters: Most whole-home humidifiers have a filter that needs to be replaced regularly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper replacement intervals.
• Consider allergies: If you or someone in your household has allergies, be mindful of the type of humidifier you choose. Some models can aggravate allergies by releasing excess moisture or bacteria into the air.

While whole-home humidifiers are primarily known for providing comfort, they also offer several health benefits. By keeping your home’s humidity levels balanced, you can improve respiratory health, alleviate allergy symptoms, and even reduce the risk of infections. Just be sure to use your humidifier responsibly and follow proper maintenance procedures for optimal results. 

So, don’t hesitate to contact Thompson’s Comfort Connection for more information about whole-home humidifiers and how they can benefit your home or building. We’re dedicated to providing exceptional indoor air quality solutions that promote both comfort and health. Get in touch with us today to learn about these or any of our other HVAC products and services for clients around Sandy, Draper and nearby areas.