The amount of moisture in the air is measured by relative humidity(RH), and this refers to the amount of water vapor present in the air in relation to how cool or hot it is. The comfortable range of RH is estimated to be around 40%, and levels above 50% can facilitate bacterial growth.
Usually, the climate is responsible for controlling the humidity level. However, in some cases, the air might become too dry or too humid and cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, coughing and at times worsen conditions such as asthma and allergies by drying up the airways.
When that happens, there are two solutions that assist you in maintaining appropriate humidity conditions within your house, which are highlighted below.
Humidifiers
Winter is a brutal season for most of us, and it takes all sorts of measures to survive through it. The winter period is often characterized by dry air, which poses myriads of health problems such as headaches, nosebleeds, allergic reactions, and dry skin.
Humidifiers help restore the amount of moisture in the air to combat the dryness that is prevalent during winter. They improve the air quality and consequently minimize the transmission of viruses, thus safeguarding you from flu infections. Additionally, humidifiers come in handy in maintaining your furniture.
Humidifiers come in several designs.
1. Warm Mist
These are often referred to as steam vaporizers simply because of their operating principle. They typically heat water until it boils, then disperse the steam within the air. The heating is beneficial in limiting the growth of bacteria within the humidifier and minimizing the chances of them being spread in the air.
For their operation, humidifiers are usually plugged into an electrical socket and heat the water contained within it until it boils. The steam collected from this process is cooled and then dispersed in the air.
2. Cool Mist
Cool mist humidifiers work to improve the humidity levels by dispensing cool water droplets in the air. This type of humidifier is a safe option since it does not involve any boiling. Still, however, it bears the risk of bacterial growth within the humidifier container, which are later spread in the air, posing health problems.
Cool mist humidifiers come in different models, as outlined below.
1. Ultrasonic Humidifiers
This type of humidifier uses a membranous solid vibrating at ultrasonic speed to break down water into tiny droplets, which are then dispersed in the air like fog. Usually, the ultrasonic humidifier’s vibrations are beyond human hearing. Thus, the type is usually quiet in its operation.
Ultrasonic humidifiers come in different shapes, with the raindrop shape model being the common one, and it ejects mist from the top section. Additionally, these ultrasonic models feature USB power and LED lights making them ideal stylish options.
2. Impeller Humidifiers
Impeller humidifiers are often a cheaper option, and they operate by spinning a ceramic plate to disintegrate water into tiny particles, which are then released into the air.
3. Evaporative Humidifiers
Evaporative humidifiers use a wick to absorb water in the storage container. As a fan blows over the wick, it causes the water to evaporate. They operate and capitalize on evaporation through which moisture is naturally increased in the air. They possess a large fan and filter, and therefore, they are bigger and require regular maintenance.
Dehumidifiers
Dehumidifiers help reduce the amount of moisture present in the air, which is essential in minimizing molds and mildew and keeping dust mites at bay. In addition, eliminating excess moisture in the air helps control the associated respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies.
The most common types of dehumidifiers are listed below.
Refrigerative Dehumidifier
This is the most common type of dehumidifier that uses a fan to draw moist air from the room and directs it over a refrigerated coil to condense the water and then eject the water-freed air back to the house.
Desiccant Dehumidifier
These are robust dehumidifiers commonly used for the commercial dehumidification process, and they use chemical attraction to reduce humidity levels.
Wondering whether to choose between a humidifier and a dehumidifier this winter? Well, your decision will be significantly influenced by the level of humidity within your home. If the level is below 30%, you need a humidifier, and if it’s above 50%, then a dehumidifier is needed.
Alternatively, you can call us at Controlled Climate Services, and we’ll be more than happy to guide you through humidifier selection and installation. Additionally, we offer AC repair and maintenance, heat pump repair, and air purifiers installation in Kennesaw, GA, and the surrounding areas.
Contact Controlled Climate Services today for more information.
