Easy Ways to Increase Humidity

As if winter weather weren’t harsh enough, those of us with forced air heating system also have to deal with the effects of dry indoor air. From chapped skin and irritated sinuses to peeling wallpaper and cracked furniture, dry indoor air can make life downright miserable.

The good news is that there are several simple ways to add moisture to the air inside your home. For optimal humidity, aim for levels between 30 and 50 percent, but keep personal comfort, health, and the weather in mind.

Here are 9 easy ways to increase indoor humidity.

1. Lower the thermostat. One the of easiest ways to reduce dry indoor air (and save a few bucks on your heating bill) is to lower the thermostat by a couple of degrees. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends keeping the heat set at 68 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal comfort and energy efficiency.
2. Place containers of water around the house. Place bowls or saucers of water on surfaces around the house, located away from foot traffic to prevent spills, and out of reach of children and pets. Wide window sills  or tables near windows are ideal, since sunlight can warm the water and help it evaporate faster.
3. Boil water on the stove. Whether it’s a pot of pasta or a cup of tea, boiling water on the stove adds moisture to the air in a hurry. Once it’s done, turn the stove off and leave the pot or kettle on the stove to allow the steam to fill the air.
4. Make dinner on the stovetop. Cooking on the stovetop adds incidental moisture to the air, helping you feel more comfortable. Avoid running the vent fan while cooking to allow the moisture to fill your home.
5. Use humidity-boosting plants. Plants naturally release moisture through a process called transpiration, and keeping them watered adds even more moisture to the air. What’s more, some varieties also remove impurities such as mold and bacteria, improving the air quality inside your home. Peace lily, areca palm, and spider plant are good options to try.
6. Leave the bathroom door open while showering. Whenever possible, leave the bathroom door cracked open while showering or bathing to allow steam to escape. If you typically use a bathroom exhaust fan to wick away humidity, leave it off during the winter.
7. Crack a window open. Take advantage of milder weather and crack a couple of windows open throughout the home, even if for a few minutes. This can be especially effective if it’s rained recently.
8. Skip the dry cycle on your dishwasher. At the end of a dishwasher’s rinse cycle, open the door and pull out the racks to let the clean dishes air-dry. You’ll add much-needed moisture to the air and save money on your electric bill.
9. Consider a more permanent solution. A whole-house humidifier, one that’s correctly sized and expertly installed by the indoor air quality specialists at Correct Temp, can keep the humidity in your home at an ideal level all winter long. This means you’ll sleep better, have less trouble with respiratory problems, avoid the struggle of itchy, dry skin, and simply feel more comfortable. All while reducing your energy costs.

Ready to learn more? Contact Correct Temp today for more information about a whole-house humidity control solution for your home.