Many people notice in winter that the air in their home feels different. The heating is on, the windows stay closed more often, and before you know it, the air feels dry and stuffy. Dry indoor air is not uncommon: as soon as the humidity level consistently drops below 30 to 40 percent, all sorts of minor complaints can crop up.
Common complaints caused by dry air
Dry air draws moisture from anything that can be moist, including your skin and airways. Many people notice one or more of the following signs:
- Dry, flaky skin and chapped lips
- An itchy throat or dry nose, especially in the morning
- Irritated or burning eyes
- More static electricity, for example when touching doorknobs
- More frequent coughing or a worsening of existing respiratory complaints
- Creaking wooden furniture, floors, or instruments due to the material drying out
For people with asthma, eczema, or chronic respiratory complaints, dry air can make their symptoms more noticeable. This does not mean that dry air is the cause of these conditions, but it can contribute to increased discomfort.
What causes dry air in the home?
The main cause is simple: warm air can hold more water vapor than cold air, but when you heat outdoor air (which is already dry in winter) without adding moisture to it, the relative humidity inside drops significantly. Less wood burning, less cooking or showering, and a well-insulated home further reinforce this effect.
What can you do yourself?
Before you reach for a device, there are a few simple steps that can already make a difference:
- Turn the thermostat down one degree: less heating means less drying out of the air
- Leave the bathroom door open for a while after showering, so that moisture spreads through the house
- Place a few extra houseplants around; they release moisture through their leaves
- Dry your laundry indoors occasionally, in a well-ventilated area
If the complaints persist despite these adjustments, a humidifier may be the solution. Dynter focuses on air purification, dehumidification, and cooling, and currently does not have a humidifier in its range. For that specific device, it is therefore best to look at a retailer that specializes in them.
If you are dealing with too high humidity, mold, or a musty smell, then our AirPure DH251 dehumidifier is a logical solution. Also view our full range at dynter.eu for a healthier indoor climate.