The Arrival of Dry, Colder Weather Means It’s Time to Add Some Moisture to Your Home

Low humidity brought by cold winter air can cause sore throats, itchy skin, dry eyes and other discomforts

Winter’s chill often sends indoor humidity dropping from a comfortable 40–50 percent to as low as 10 percent. That dry air can irritate your throat, skin and eyes, and even worsen respiratory issues. A humidifier restores moisture to the air and can ease these symptoms.

Types of Humidifiers

Humidifiers fall into three main categories:

• Ultrasonic: A vibrating disk creates a fine mist. They’re very quiet and energy-efficient but may leave a white mineral residue if your water is hard.
• Evaporative: A wick filter soaks up water while a fan blows air through it. They self-regulate humidity and cost little to run, though filters must be replaced periodically to prevent mold.
• Warm-mist: Water is boiled and then released as steam. They kill bacteria in the water but use more electricity and pose a burn risk around children.

Sizing and Placement

• Single-room (tabletop): Compact and affordable, ideal for bedrooms or offices. Requires daily refilling and weekly cleaning.
• Console: Freestanding units humidify multiple adjacent rooms. They hold more water but can be bulky to move and clean.
• Whole-house (in-duct): Installed on your HVAC system, it humidifies every room automatically. It’s low-maintenance and efficient but involves professional installation and higher upfront cost.

Avoiding Over-Humidification

Excess humidity leads to condensation on windows, peeling paint and mold growth. Choose a model with a built-in humidistat to maintain indoor levels between 40 and 60 percent. If your unit lacks one, purchase a standalone hygrometer to monitor humidity and run your humidifier only as needed.

With the right humidifier and proper maintenance, regular cleaning, filter changes and water refills—you can keep winter’s dryness at bay and enjoy healthier, more comfortable indoor air all season long.