It’s not just the snow, ice, and cold that try our patience during the winter months. There’s also dry indoor air. As outdoor temps dip, and heating systems kick in, indoor humidity levels take a serious dip. And that can do more harm than simply causing dry, itchy skin or chapped lips.
Here are some additional problems caused by dry indoor air.
Window Frames. Low humidity levels can cause wood window frames to shrink and become more difficult to open. To combat that, place some plants on the windowsill or near the window so the moisture from the leaves evaporates into the air. You may need to mist your plants with water, depending on the type, to keep them from drying out.
Leather Furniture. As tough as leather is, it is susceptible to drying out, stiffening, and cracking. To keep your leather couch, favorite armchair, and even your leather jacket from drying out, apply a good leather conditioner at the start of cold weather months and reapply as often as suggested by the manufacturer.
Wood Floors and Stairs. Wood floors and stairs can creak loudly come winter because dry air causes the planks to dry out, shrink, and form gaps. Consider running a humidifier in rooms with hardwood floors or, if most of your home has hardwood flooring, you may want to invest in a whole-house humidifier.
Wood Furnishings. Much like your wood floors, wood furniture is susceptible to damage from dry indoor air. Tables, chairs, and bookshelves can crack if humidity levels get too low, but adding moisture back into the air can protect them.
Instruments. If your piano is sounding a little off key, it might not be your talent gone bad, but another consequence of dry air. A drop in humidity can make wooden instruments vulnerable to tuning issues. Place a couple bowls of water near your instruments to help keep them sounding great.
Wine. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just have a bottle or two hanging around, low humidity can chip away at the cork, allowing air to get in and ruin the delicate flavor composition. If investing in a humidity controlled wine fridge isn’t an option, place a pan or bowl filled with water near the wine, but only if you plan on keeping the wine in storage for more than a few weeks.
Dry indoor air also can cause static electric shock, frizzy hair, severe allergy problems, bloody noses, and more. To help prevent all that, contact Optimum Air today about a whole-house humidifier. You’ll love all the problems it can solve and the added comfort it provides.