During cooler temperatures, the air in your Cincinnati area home can become so dry that it makes your skin crawl. Combat dryness and the stuffy noses, dry skin and static buildup with a whole-house humidifier. Heating and air quality are closely linked. An added benefit of properly humidified air: you'll feel warm at a lower thermostat setting, saving you money on energy bills. 

Selecting the Right Unit

You’ll need to know the square footage of your Cincinnati area home to buy a unit that provides enough humid air. A whole-house humidifier works with your furnace, moisturizing the airstream as it flows through the ductwork. 

Effective heating and air treatment using a whole-house humidifier means professional installation. Work with your HVAC technician to select a model that delivers the proper amount of moisture with desirable options for easy operation. 

Some features to watch for in a whole-house humidifier:

• A humidistat built into the unit so that it monitors levels continuously
• An easily read gauge so you can adjust the humidity levels as you wish
• Automatic shut-off when proper humidification is reached
• Easily accessible filter for frequent cleaning

A high-quality whole-house humidifier installed by a professional HVAC technician will tap into your home’s water supply, so refilling a supply tank isn't necessary. A drain tube carries excess water to a floor drain. You want humidified air with no standing water that can lead to mold and mildew. 

Humidity Levels

If you or any family member suffers from allergies or respiratory issues, you may actually want to discuss the right humidity level with your family physician. Heating and air quality, including humidity, are closely linked to illnesses during cold weather, when people and air are routinely indoors much of the time. 

Most authorities recommend between 30 and 50 percent humidity. Household dust mites decline in humidity levels under 50 percent and boom where humidity reaches 80 percent. Similarly, indoor fungi only grow in humidity levels exceeding 60 percent. 

For more help selecting the right whole-house humidifier for your Cincinnati area home, contact us at Tri-County Heating & Cooling. 

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