How Does a Whole-Home Humidifier Work?

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January 14, 2015

Nobody likes high humidity, especially in their own homes. If humidity is high enough, you start to feel clammy and sweaty. It's harder for you to stay cool, and it can even make it hard for you to breathe. Dehumidifiers solve this problem by removing moisture from the air to make the home more comfortable. What about a lack of humidity, though?

Air that's too dry is almost as bad as air that's too moist. If there isn't enough humidity in the air, it can cause damage to materials like wood and paper. Wood warps and cracks, while paper becomes brittle and fragile. In addition to damaging inanimate materials, dry air can have a deleterious effect on humans as well. Inside your nose is mucus that is almost entirely composed of water. When the air around you is too dry, that mucus dries up. This makes it easier for viruses and bacteria to enter your system and cause illness. That's where a whole-home humidifier comes in.

What is a Whole -Home Humidifier?

A whole-home humidifier is a device designed to maintain a comfortable and healthy humidity level in a home. The most common type of humidifier uses steam to accomplish this. The humidifier is hooked up to the central air handler, as well as the home's water line. As the air handler operates, circulating air throughout the house, the humidifier runs water through an evaporator coil to convert it to steam. The steam rises into the air stream, both warming it and increasing its humidity. This is the easiest way to increase the humidity in a home's air supply. There are a few considerations to be made before installing a humidifier, though.

As the humidifier is perpetually exposed to water vapor, it can start to grow mold if it isn't properly cleaned and maintained. Always follow the instructions of the professional that installs the system for you. He or she will know how to best maintain and use the humidifier.

If you are interested in installing a whole-home humidifier, call Bronco Plumbing Heating and Air to schedule an appointment. We install quality humidifiers in the Elk Grove area.