Living in Anchorage, Alaska, means embracing unique challenges with the climate. One common issue during the colder months is dry indoor air, which can affect not only your comfort but also your health and your home. Dry air is more than just an inconvenience; it can lead to serious discomfort and damage if left unchecked. Here’s a closer look at the symptoms of dry air and why restoring humidity in your home is essential for a healthier living environment.
How Dry Air Affects Your Health
When humidity levels drop below 30%—a frequent occurrence in Alaska’s long, cold winters—the air inside your home becomes excessively dry. This low moisture can lead to several health issues:
Dry Skin and Irritated Eyes
Prolonged exposure to dry air can strip your skin of natural oils, leaving it feeling tight, itchy, and flaky. Your eyes may also become red, irritated, or dry.
Cracked Lips and Sore Throats
Chapped lips and throat irritation are classic signs of dry air. Without enough moisture, the mucous membranes in your throat can dry out, causing discomfort and an increased risk of coughing.
Respiratory Problems
Dry air can exacerbate conditions like asthma, allergies, and sinus congestion. Studies by the Mayo Clinic show that low humidity can dry out the protective lining in your nasal passages, leaving you more susceptible to respiratory infections.
Static Shocks
Have you noticed an increase in static electricity when touching door handles or clothing? That’s a clear indicator of dry indoor air.
Worsened Cold and Flu Symptoms
The CDC states that dry air can prolong the lifespan of airborne viruses, making it harder to recover from illnesses like colds and the flu.
The Impact of Dry Air on Your Home
Dry air doesn’t just affect people—it can also take a toll on your home and belongings.
Cracked or Warped Wood
Hardwood floors, furniture, and doorframes may shrink, warp, or crack due to insufficient moisture.
Peeling Paint or Wallpaper
Low humidity can cause paint to dry out and peel, and wallpaper to bubble or detach from walls.
Gaps in Woodwork
You might notice gaps forming in molding, baseboards, or cabinetry as the materials shrink in response to dry air.
Wilted Houseplants
If your houseplants are looking droopy or their leaves are turning brown, they may be suffering from a lack of moisture.
How to Solve Dry Air Problems
The good news is that dry air is a fixable issue. A whole-home humidifier, integrated with your HVAC system, can help maintain an optimal humidity level between 30% and 50%, according to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommendations.
Here’s how Diamond Heating can help:
- Expert Installation of Humidifiers
We can install a whole-home humidifier that works seamlessly with your existing heating system. This ensures consistent humidity throughout your home.
- Smart Thermostats for Better Control
Integrate a smart thermostat to monitor and adjust humidity levels automatically.
- Custom Solutions for Anchorage’s Climate
Our team understands Alaska’s unique climate and can recommend the best humidity solutions for your home.
Anchorage experiences some of the driest winters in the U.S., with relative humidity indoors often dropping to uncomfortable levels. Adding moisture to the air doesn’t just improve comfort; it can also protect your home’s structural integrity and reduce heating costs. Proper humidity can make indoor air feel warmer, allowing you to lower the thermostat and save on energy bills.
Take Control of Your Home’s Comfort
If you’re experiencing the symptoms of dry air in your Anchorage home, now is the time to act. At Diamond Heating, we specialize in helping homeowners create healthier, more comfortable environments. Contact us today to learn more about our humidity solutions and schedule a consultation.
Don’t let dry air take over your comfort this winter—We at Diamond Heating are here to help!
