Utah winters are cold and very dry, and running a furnace dries indoor air out even more. The right humidity makes a home feel warmer and more comfortable and protects wood floors and furniture. Too much causes condensation and moisture problems.
The right setting
For most Wasatch Front homes, aim for 30% to 40% indoor humidity, and lower it as the outdoor temperature drops. When it's very cold outside, windows and exterior walls get cold enough for moisture to condense on them.
A common rule of thumb:
- Above 20°F outside: about 40%
- 10°F to 20°F: about 35%
- 0°F to 10°F: about 30%
- Below 0°F: about 25%
Many whole-home humidifiers have an automatic outdoor-temperature control that adjusts this for you, which is the easiest way to get it right.
Signs the humidity is too low
- Static shocks
- Dry skin, lips, eyes and sinuses, and nosebleeds
- Gaps or cracks in hardwood floors, trim and furniture
- The house feels colder than the thermostat says
Signs the humidity is too high
- Fog, condensation or frost on the inside of windows
- Water stains or peeling paint near windows
- Musty smells or mold spots
If you see condensation, turn the humidity down a few points.
Portable vs. whole-home humidifiers
Portable units help one room but need daily refilling and cleaning. A whole-home humidifier mounts on your furnace and treats the entire house automatically. Types include:
- Bypass: simple and efficient
- Fan-powered: more output for larger homes
- Steam: the most precise control and output
Maintenance
Utah's hard water scales humidifiers quickly. Replace the pad or steam canister once a year, usually before heating season, and check the drain line. A clogged pad stops working even though the humidifier seems to be running.
How Aireo helps
We install and service whole-home humidifiers sized to your home and furnace, with the right humidity target and drain setup. Current special: 10% off pad or canister replacement or a new humidifier (see specials).
Learn more about humidifier installation and indoor air quality, or call (385) 324-7301.