5 Benefits and 3 Drawbacks of Home Humidifiers, and the Different Types
[ad_1]
1. They May Make Your Home’s Environment Less Conducive to Cold and Flu Germs
“There have been reports that higher humidity levels (around 40 to 50 percent) can play a role in decreasing the concentration and transmission of airborne viruses that cause the common cold and influenza,” says James. “Humid air can trap and neutralize viruses, making it difficult for individuals to inhale them.”
2. Humidifiers Can Help With Allergies, Asthma, and Sinus Problems
Low humidity can cause your eyes, nose, and lips to dry out. “It can also result in an irritated nose, a dry and scratchy sore throat, and itchy eyes, which can occur when you have allergies (for example, hay fever), as well as worsening asthma and sinus problems,” says James.
Therefore, the proper use of a humidifier in the home can be beneficial for preventing dryness and decreasing symptoms that can occur in seasonal allergies, asthma, and sinus problems, he explains.
RELATED: 7 Things You Didn’t Know About Keeping Your Sinuses Healthy
3. They Can Moisturize Skin and Help Relieve Eczema
4. Humidifiers May Help Soothe Coughs and Colds
Cool mist humidifiers may help ease coughing and congestion, says James. “This occurs by relieving irritation in the nose and airways, as well as breaking up mucus that can make it harder to breathe and cause coughing.”
5. They Can Help Reduce Heating Bills
Maintaining optimal humidity levels in your home can help reduce overall energy consumption, save energy, and lower your heating bills for a number of reasons.
Firstly, you may not feel as chilly. “Dry air and low humidity in the home can lead to the misconception of needing higher indoor temperatures for comfort, which can increase heating costs,” says James.
Secondly, humid air requires less energy to heat, which can lower energy consumption and your heating bills, he adds. Thirdly, proper humidity levels help you to retain heat, reduce heat loss, and decrease reliance on heating systems.
[ad_2]
