Humidifiers can increase the level of moisture in the air. Dry air can cause different kinds of allergies. By reducing the dryness in the air, you can prevent irritations in the body. Humidifiers can treat the dryness of lips, skin, nose, and throat. They are also helpful when you’ve flu or caught a cold. Let’s start to know about “what does a humidifier do”?
What is a humidifier?
A humidifier emits water vapor or steam in the air to increase the level of moisture and humidity. It consists of a water tank and a base for different controls.
Types Of Humidifiers
There are many types of Humidifiers according to their structure and function. It depends upon your budget and the size of the area you want to moisturize. However, their basic purpose is the same; to increase the level of humidity in the air.
These are the five main types of humidifiers:
- Ultrasonic Humidifiers
- Central Humidifiers
- Evaporators
- Steam Vaporizers
- Air Washer
Ultrasonic Humidifiers
Ultrasonic humidifiers can increase the level of humidity in the air by producing cool mist and propelling it into the air. It consists of a small metal diaphragm that vibrates at ultrasonic speed. Instead of electricity, these humidifiers use vibration to produce vapors. Some of the ultrasonic humidifiers produce both warm and cool mist.
Central Humidifiers
A central humidifier can add moisture to your whole house. These humidifiers are usually built into the home heating and air conditioning system. They are different types of central humidifiers including evaporative and steam models.
Evaporators
Evaporative humidifiers work by drawing dry air through the wet wick. When the water in the tank starts to vapourize, these humidifiers use a fan to propel the moist air to the environment. During the evaporation, heat is removed from the air thus releasing cool air into the room.
Steam Vaporizers
Steam vaporizers use electricity to heat water and produce steam. The steam is cooled before it leaves the humidifier. However, you shouldn’t stand too close to the steam vaporizer. Instant hot steam can burn your skin.
Air Washer
These humidifiers work to clean the air as well as humidify it. They draw dry air into them and clean the large particles of dust, pollen, and other impurities. They wash the air by rotating discs and mats. Air washers also produce a cool mist thus increasing the level of humidity in the air.
Ideal Humidity Level
The humidity level is measured by the level of moisture in the air. The humidity level in the air increases and decreases according to the seasons and weather etc. Usually, in the summer the humidity level is higher because of the ability of warm air to hold moisture efficiently. However, in the winter the humidity level decreases. The ideal humidity level for the human body lies between 30% to 50%. Both lower and upper levels of humidity cause several problems.
Lower Humidity
The lower humidity level in the air causes irritation and allergies. Low humidity is especially bad for the skin. It can also cause nose bleeding and severe irritation in the throat.
Higher Humidity
High levels of humidity are also bad for your health. It can cause severe problems in your respiratory system. Higher humidity can dampen the air and cause condensation on the walls and floors. In such an environment mold, mildew, and harmful bacterias grow. They cause different respiratory and other allergies.
Uses & Benefits Of A Humidifier
- Prevents Airborne Viruses
- Keeps The Skin and Hair Moist
- Prevents Static
- Reduces Snoring
- Beneficial for The Home
Prevents Airborne Viruses
Humidifiers add moisture to the air. A study showed that the increased level of humidity reduces the risk of spreading viruses. 85% of the viruses virtually become ineffective in the humidity level of 43% or above. Humidifiers also help in reducing the risk of catching flu and cold.
Keeps The Skin and Hair Moist
During the winter season, you might notice that your skin and hair become dry and fragile. This dryness can cause several issues such as cracked skin. Most heating units release warm and dry air that worsens the matter. Moreover, the outside cold wind also takes part in drying out our skin. However, humidifiers can richly increase the level of humidity in the air thus reducing the risks of dry, fragile, and cracked skin and hair.
Prevents Static
Dry conditions in the room can cause static. This static is not only annoying but sometimes if it builds up it can damage certain electronics. You can feel static electricity while changing clothes or removing a bedsheet. Humidifiers can prevent or reduce the production of static electricity.
Reduces Snoring
Snoring is caused by the dryness of your airways. It is very difficult to sleep with a person who continuously snores all night. Humidifiers can prevent and reduce snoring by sufficiently adding moisture to your nostrils and airways. Adding humidity to the air can keep your throat moist. If you breathe through your mouth while sleeping, you’ll most likely feel dry when you’re awake. This dryness causes more friction hence increased snoring sound. Run a humidifier to moist the air this will keep your nostrils and throat moist. This will also help you in sleeping more peacefully and reduce snoring.
Beneficial for The Home
A good amount of moisture in the air is also very beneficial for your home. It can make the hardwood floor and furniture last longer and stay more vibrant. If you have indoor plants they can benefit from the increased level of humidity. Humid air also prevents your wallpapers from cracking up. It also prevents the building up of static in the house. Moreover, as humid air feels warmer, it can be an energy-efficient way around the house. It can keep your heating utility costs to the lower side of the budget. Visit Nova Air AC for more!
