What Does a Humidifier Do?

What does a humidifier do?

You probably know what a humidifier does, but do you know what a humidifier does for you?

Humidifiers add moisture to the air to prevent dryness. Humidifiers work in different ways, so it’s important to choose the right kind of humidifier for you:

• Evaporative humidifier models use a wicking filter to absorb water. As the water evaporates, the humidifier’s fan blows the evaporated moisture into the air. These humidifiers are the best option for whole-house humidification.
• Ultrasonic humidifiers don’t use a wicking filter. Instead, they use a nebulizer, vibrating at an ultrasonic speed, that breaks water particles into an ultrafine mist. The humidifier then, silently, propels this mist into the air. This nearly silent operation makes ultrasonic humidifiers perfect for bedrooms and nurseries. Due to their small size, however, they are not well suited for whole house humidification.
• Steam humidifiers are also wickless and include a heating element that boils the water in the humidifier before releasing the steam into the air. Steam humidifiers heat the water enough to destroy contaminants like bacteria, algae, and mold. This heating element makes it less likely to release allergens into the air than with other types of humidifiers. Steam humidifiers are the best option when you’re sick (although any humidifier will help with congestion), but steam humidifiers are not a good choice for children since the hot water can burn if it is spilled.

So, what can a humidifier do for you? Humidifiers add moisture to the dry air that can irritate many parts of the body. Since dry air also dries out our skin and hair, humidifiers can be particularly effective for treating those issues as well as dryness of the nose, throat, and lips.

DID YOU KNOW? The annoying – and sometimes painful – static electricity that builds up in your home during the winter months is a result of dry air. Adding a humidifier can alleviate this electric annoyance.

Humidifiers can also ease some of the symptoms caused by the flu or common cold. Adding humidity to your home’s air can help lubricate nasal passages, which makes it easier for you to breathe when you are congested. Humidifiers also help soothe coughing, since dry air can aggravate an already annoying cough.

And speaking of illness, a humidifier can also help reduce the spread of viruses in your home. Studies have shown that keeping your humidity between 40%-60% can help reduce the flu virus by as much as 80%; possibly even more. In addition to helping limit a virus’ spread, a healthy humidity level of 40%-60% can also give your immune system a little boost and make your body’s defenses more robust.

A humidifier can do some great stuff for you when the air in your home (or office) is dry. So, pull out your humidifier and let it run for a few hours. Your body will notice the difference.

Not sure where to get started? AIRCARE is here to help! Give us a call at 800-547-3888, Monday through Friday, from 8am to 5pm CST.