As the temperatures start to drop, most of us will be turning up our thermostats to keep our homes toasty. And if you’re also battling the effects of dry indoor air, having a humidifier is a great way to add moisture into the room.
But, can a humidifier be used to help keep your home warm and cozy? Typically, we tend to feel colder in dry environments because our skin loses moisture rapidly — and so a humidifier prevents fast evaporation and should (in theory) make you feel warmer.
Can I use a humidifier to help keep my home warm?
Although the general advice would be not to rely on a humidifier to heat your home, it can boost the overall warmth.
“A humidifier won’t raise the temperature directly but what it does is help air feel warmer,” states Scott Hadesty, CEO of Caccia Home Services. “Moist air tends to hold heat unlike dry air, so when humidity is around 40 to 50%, your body will retain warmth more efficiently. So you can often turn down the thermostat a few degrees and still feel just as comfortable.”
And while humidifiers do not push out hot air, some use a heating element that produces warm vapor into the room. “Warm mist humidifiers can provide some relief to cold winter days while raising the humidity in your home,” adds Richie Drew, VP of Operations at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning.
“They use a heating element, sending warm vapor into the air and increasing the temperature. However, it’s important to note that humidity levels should be around 30-40% during the winter.”
What to consider when using a humidifier to warm your home
So what are the things we need to consider first, before using a humidifier to boost warmth during winter months? “As far as general humidifier tips, we always remind folks to consider the size of their home,” advises Drew.
“This is important as low humidity leaves uncomfortable dry air, but high humidity and moisture can lead to the growth of bacteria, mold, and dust mites. A 4-5 bedroom home will need a humidifier that can output two to three gallons of water a day. A hygrometer is the best way to monitor the relative humidity throughout your home.”
On the other hand, if you’re battling with mold or damp issues, you’ll need to invest in one of the best dehumidifiers to instantly reduce moisture levels. By doing so, you will reduce the risk of mold and condensation build-up around windows during winter.
If you do want to make the most of your humidifier, what is the best practice? And how do you use it safely?
“Place it in a room where you spend the most time, ideally in a spot that is central and has good airflow,” advises Hardesty . “You should try and shut the doors to help keep the moisture in and then clean the unit weekly to avoid mold. We also strongly suggest using distilled water when you can to reduce mineral buildup. Whole-home humidifiers connected to your HVAC system are ideal for maintaining consistent humidity throughout larger spaces.”
In addition, you’ll want to ensure that your air and heating appliances are well maintained. This means ensuring that you clean your humidifier on a regular basis to prevent mineral buildup and bacterial growth. Experts also recommend using distilled or filtered water if possible, since it’s purified and mineral-free.
“My final point would be to pair your humidifier with regular HVAC maintenance,” adds Hardesty. “A clean and well maintained furnace will significantly help airflow and allow proper circulation. You’ll not only feel warmer but also protect wood furniture, flooring, and even paint from drying out and cracking during the colder months.”
So the next time you feel chilly indoors and want to boost your indoor temperature, your humidifier could be the secret this winter.
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