You have probably come across the term relative humidity. Experts recommend humidity ranging from 30% to 50% to maintain comfort, good health and preserve your home from damage from excess humidity or dryness. During extreme weather conditions in the winter and summer, for instance, the air may be too dry or contain too much moisture. Here’s where the humidifier and dehumidifier come in handy. What are they, and which of the two do you really need during the winter season?

What is a humidifier?

The winter months are notorious for harboring dry air. Low humidity levels trigger health issues such as dry skin and lips, allergy shots, headaches, and nosebleeds. You have probably noticed that your wooden furniture suffers from sudden cracks and dull finishes during the winter season. Low humidity is one of the leading reasons. A humidifier will reverse the situation and put moisture back into the air to improve the humidity levels.

What is a dehumidifier?

Summer seasons are notorious for condoning high moisture levels in the air. Moist air supports the growth of mold, dust mites, and mildew. Air that’s too humid triggers allergies and asthma from the unfavorable conditions created by mold. The warmth, coupled with the moisture, causes rapid mold growth that either leads to health issues or reduced aesthetic touch on walls and floors. Dehumidifiers suck out the moisture content from the air to improve comfort and health conditions in the home.

Humidifier vs dehumidifier? Which one do you need during winter?

While your HVAC system will probably bring in the comfort you need during the cold season. However, dry air cancels out the warm environment the HVAC system strives to put up. Moreover, your furnace is likely to be on full blast, heating your home. All that heat adds up the levels of dry air within your home. You will need a humidifier during the winter season to help increase moisture levels in your home and put the health issues at bay.

Using a dehumidifier during winter

At times, your HVAC professional will recommend that you use a dehumidifier as a standard option for homeowners who have noticed mold growth during winter. Certain types of mold may thrive in colder climates provided there is moisture in the air. With the humidifier increasing moisture levels in the air, you could be looking at a mold problem in your home. Consider using a dehumidifier to bring down the humidity levels and contain mold growth. You might want to use the dehumidifier together with the heater to maintain the warmth of the house. Be sure not to use the heater for too long as it may increase the temperature to uncomfortable levels.

To answer the question, use a humidifier during the winter season. The dehumidifier only comes in handy if you are facing a mold breeding crisis. Ensure that your humidity levels are at recommendable points.

Are you looking to install and operate the dehumidifier and humidifier correctly? What does your house really need? Contact Master Mechanical today to speak to a qualified HVAC professional who will help you attain the right humidity levels for your home.