It takes a certain amount of effort to strike the right balance in humidity and a healthy environment, especially within your own home.
You might be asking ‘What does a humidifier do?’ and when to use a humidifier. It is not as hard as you might think to maintain the ideal indoor humidity.
The good news is that you can achieve that balance and enjoy the benefits of having the ideal amount of humidity in the air. It all makes sense when you consider how humidity in the air affects your health and well-being.
How humidity affects our health
There are a range of health factors that can be affected by humidity.
A number of studies have shown a variety of issues arising from the humidity level in the air, especially in confined spaces and how they can be detrimental to physical health and overall well-being.
Indoor humidity is basically the amount of water vapour in the air. It is calculated as a percentage of the total amount of water vapour that could be held at the current temperature. As the room temperature rises the proportion of water vapour in the air and its ability to float in the air increases.
There are health implications when the air is either too dry or too humid.
Low humidity levels can lead to very dry air and the increased risk of catching airborne viruses like the flu. Conditions such as eczema and psoriasis can be aggravated by lack of humidity in the air and even healthy skin can become dry, cracked and uncomfortable.
Some viruses are able to survive longer in dry, cool conditions and are easier to catch when you have irritated nasal passages.
Higher humidity in the home can create an environment for dust mites and mould to thrive and trigger asthma, respiratory problems and allergic reactions.
Balancing the amount of humidity in the air is a key to better health and this is where an air humidifier can play an important role in well-being.
What Does a Humidifier Do?
Humidifiers give you the ability to add moisture to the air to prevent dryness and avoid the causes of irritation to various parts of the body.
A quality air humidifier can be particularly effective for avoiding and even treating dryness of the skin, lips, nose, and throat. They can also ease some symptoms caused by the flu or common cold such as congestion and coughing.
What does a humidifier do and how can it help create a healthier environment?
A humidifier allows you to add moisture to the air in a room or throughout your home. The health benefits are many and counteract the issues associated with dry air often caused by indoor heating systems and cold outdoor air. By creating a balanced humidity in the air, you have the ability to keep the indoor air you breathe at the optimal level. It is crucial that the air is not too dry or excessively humid.
The best use of your air humidifier
An air humidifier can keep the humidity at the ideal level of between 30 and 50%.
A key to the effectiveness of this handy device is to buy a humidifier which is appropriate for the space. This is where measuring the room where the humidifier will be running is the foundation for its successful use.
High humidity levels can worsen respiratory problems and create uncomfortable dampness in the air while encouraging the growth of dust mites, mould, mildew and harmful bacteria.
Here are some things to keep in mind when you purchase your air humidifier.
- Clean Water - It is important to use distilled water to avoid unwanted particles being released into the air. Even tap water can have ‘nasties’ that can be sent into the air you and your family breathe.
- Appropriate Use - You need to avoid excessive use of your humidifier. Only run it when you need it to keep humidity levels down. Avoid the temptation to keep your air humidifier running for long periods.
- Proper Hygiene - Regular cleaning and maintenance is vital to keeping the air free of contaminants and getting the best performance from your air humidifier.
Overusing humidifiers or not cleaning the unit properly can potentially worsen respiratory problems and cause other health conditions. It is recommended that you change the water in your unit on a daily basis.
Your health and comfort is often related to the level of humidity in the air. That level should never exceed 60%. Your comfort depends on factors such as the space of the room and the climate of where you live. A dry environment can have a profound effect on our well-being.
The Importance of balancing indoor humidity
The humidity in the air goes hand-in-hand with your health and comfort.
Maintaining this balance can enhance well-being especially in relation to relaxing and improving the conditions for a good night’s sleep.
Knowing when to use a humidifier and under what circumstances will give you the most effective and rewarding results.
If you are using heating, especially during the winter months, the air in a room or throughout your home can benefit from an air humidifier. Reducing the dryness in the air in a bedroom can improve the quality of your sleep.
Utilising a quality humidifier can also lift your mood and increase your state of well-being.
When you or a loved one is suffering from the effects of a dry throat, nose or cough, the benefits of a humidifier come into play. With the knowledge of when to use a humidifier and for how long, you can create and enjoy the ideal environment.
With the correct maintenance and hygiene approach, you can have your humidifier enhancing your daily life whenever you need it.
An air of distinction
Now you know the answer to what does a humidifier do?, you can balance the humidity in the air and can enjoy healthier conditions and avoid the harmful effects of dry air and alleviate the symptoms of a cold, the flu and other ailments.
If you have never tried an air humidifier, then now is your chance to feel the benefits of the ideal indoor humidity. Consider the use of a humidifier for a healthier environment for you and your family.
For more on creating healthier air, read more about the benefits of an air humidifier and air purifier.
Blue & Brown has a fabulous range of quality humidifiers and purifiers to give you the ideal environment for a happy and healthy life.