Here in Delaware County, winter doesn’t just bring cold weather; it can also usher in dry indoor air. As your heater circulates warm air through the house it dries it out. It’s frustrating to feel cold indoors, and you might be contending with cracked lips, dry skin, sore throats or just an overall lack of comfort. The good news: With the right tactics — such as relying on a good air humidifier and keeping up with clean HVAC filters — you can take comfort back and keep indoor air healthy.
Why Indoor Air Gets So Dry in Winter
The impact of heating systems on humidity
Your furnace or heat pump runs, and it heats the air — but when the hot air can hold only a little moisture, relative humidity falls. Especially, if you rely on a high efficiency oil boiler furnace, dryness can become more noticeable during peak heating periods. You want to maintain indoor humidity at 30–50% if possible. Yet in winter, levels often dip below 30 percent, which can lead to discomfort and various health concerns.
What too-dry air does to you and your home
- Skin, eyes and sinuses hurt: Dry air can dry out your skin, eyes and nasal passages, which may only make an already uncomfortable situation even worse.
- Breathing: Air that is too dry can cause respiratory irritation and worsen allergies.
- Comfort and structure: Dry air can cause a room to feel cold, and even how wood furniture or flooring shrinks or cracks.
- HVAC efficiency: When your humidity levels are off balance, your heating system has to put in extra work, which impacts energy efficiency.
How to Use an Air Humidifier Effectively
Understanding the role of a humidifier
An air humidifier adds moisture to the air and will help increase humidity levels in your home: 35–50% is the ideal range during winter. Benefits include low humidity symptoms such as dry throat, skin and sinus, irritations, snoring, less static electricity and a better night’s sleep
Choosing the right humidifier & placement
- Whole-home vs portable: Whole-home humidifiers are built right into your HVAC system and are responsible for controlling the humidity levels throughout your home. Portable models are ideal for single rooms, such as bedrooms or living rooms.
- Location is important: If using a portable humidifier, consider positioning it in the rooms you frequent most for best results.
- Keep it from being too moist: Excessive moisture can create mold or condensation. Maintain the proper range of humidity levels: The ideal home humidity level is around 35%-50% depending on personal preference, building architecture and climate.
Maintenance tips
- Regular cleaning of your humidifier will prevent bacteria and mold from forming.
- To minimize mineral build-up, use distilled or filtered water.
- Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity, and prevent over-humidification.
Experience unparalleled comfort year-round!
Ensure your home stays cozy with our expert Havertown HVAC service and tune-up
HVAC Filter Tips for Better Indoor Comfort
Why filters matter for dry air and indoor quality
Your HVAC system depends on clean air flow. A filter can become clogged and restrict airflow making it more difficult for the system to distribute air evenly. This impacts the comfort and humidity levels of your home. Clean filters also cut down on the amount of airborne dust and allergens, which can collect in greater amounts during winter. For homeowners seeking reliable guidance, experienced HVAC Contractors in Philadelphia can also help you choose the right filter for your system.
How to pick and maintain your HVAC filters
- Filter rating: Choose filters with a proper MERV rating for your system to balance filtration needs and airflow.
- Change frequently: Change your filters every 1—3 months throughout the heating season, or as recommended by your HVAC professional.
- Whole-system check: When you schedule your seasonal HVAC tune-up, insist that your technician give filters, ductwork and airflow the once-over.
Filter + humidifier synergy
Filters and humidifiers are most effective when used together. Dirty filters restrict proper airflow and allow your system to work more efficiently by circulating humidified air in a larger portion of the home. The result: more consistent comfort and improved indoor air quality during winter.
Action Steps for Your Home This Winter in Havertown, PA
- Measure humidity levels: Use a hygrometer to check if your humidity is under 35%.
- Install or activate your humidifier: Whether portable or whole-home, use a humidifier to maintain balanced moisture.
- Schedule your HVAC tune up near Philadelphia: Ensure your heating system is operating efficiently, your filters are clean, and your humidifier is set up properly.
- Change your HVAC filters regularly to improve airflow and indoor air quality.
- Maintain your humidifier: Clean it consistently and monitor humidity levels to avoid over-humidifying.
- Seal and insulate: Eliminate drafts from windows and doors to help retain moisture and warm air indoors.
Why Choose Boyle Energy?
Boyle Energy is your trusted partner in Havertown and the greater Delaware County area for heating, ventilation and air conditioning services. Whether you need a seasonal checkup, advice on air humidifiers and filters, or expert help with winter comfort solutions, we’re here for you.
Call Boyle Energy at 610-347-5197 for your HVAC tune up near Philadelphia, indoor air quality improvement, or help with heating and humidification this winter. We’re proud to serve our local community with dependable service and expert solutions.
Experience unparalleled comfort year-round!
Ensure your home stays cozy with our expert Havertown HVAC service and tune-up
Patrick Boyle brings over three decades of expertise to Boyle Energy, carrying forward a family legacy that began with his grandfather, Joseph Boyle Sr., the company’s founder. With extensive technical proficiency, Patrick holds advanced certifications in both oil and HVAC systems, ensuring the highest standards of service and performance. Additionally, he is recognized as an NPGA-certified propane service professional, underscoring his commitment to safety and industry best practices. Under his leadership, Boyle Energy continues to deliver reliable and efficient energy solutions, grounded in generations of trust and innovation.
