5 Signs Your Home Needs a Humidifier

Have you been wondering if it’s finally time to invest in a humidifier? Maybe your friends and family swear by theirs, but you’re still on the fence. Is the dry air in your home really causing those itchy eyes, cracked skin, or annoying static shocks—or are you imagining it? The truth is dry indoor air can take a toll on your health, comfort, and even your home. At Van Drunen Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve spent over 50 years helping families enjoy the benefits of balanced indoor humidity. If you’re unsure, here are five clear signs it might be time to make the switch.

1. Asthma or Allergy Symptoms Flaring Up

If you or a family member struggles with asthma or allergies, dry air could be worsening their symptoms. When moisture levels drop below optimal levels (between 30% and 50%, according to the Environmental Protection Agency), airborne irritants like dust and pollen thrive. Without sufficient humidity, these irritants are more likely to circulate throughout your home, aggravating your respiratory system and triggering symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, and other discomforts.

A humidifier introduces the ideal moisture balance into your home, helping to control these pesky particles and creating a healthier environment for your entire family. Pair it with an air cleaner, and you’ll have the cleanest and most comfortable air for your home. 

2. Dry Skin and Cracked Lips

Have you found your skin feeling rough, dry, or itchy, especially during the colder months? Are your lips constantly chapped or cracked, no matter how much lip balm you apply? Low humidity levels might be the culprit. Without sufficient moisture in the air, your skin loses hydration, resulting in increased dryness and irritation.

Installing a humidifier can restore your skin’s natural moisture, leaving you with soft, hydrated skin—even during the harshest winters.

3. Irritated Sinuses or Frequent Nosebleeds

If you’re waking up with an irritated or dry nose, or if frequent nosebleeds are a new issue, dry air might be at the root of the problem. Excessively dry air strips away the protective moisture in your nasal passages, causing discomfort and making you more susceptible to sinus infections.

Using a humidifier helps moisten your airways, easing sinus irritation and reducing the risk of nosebleeds. It can also aid in relieving cold symptoms, helping you breathe easier during the flu season.

4. A House Filled with Static Electricity

If you dread the shock when switching on a light or shaking someone’s hand, your home’s low humidity might be to blame. Static electricity thrives in dry air, building up more frequently in environments where moisture is lacking. This isn’t just inconvenient; it can also damage sensitive electronics and irritate your daily life.

By increasing your home’s humidity levels with a humidifier, you can significantly reduce those annoying static shocks and enjoy a more comfortable atmosphere.

5. Damaged Wood Furnishings

Have you ever noticed cracks forming in your wooden floors, furniture, or decorative items? Dry air saps moisture from wood, causing it to shrink, crack, or warp over time. This type of damage, while often overlooked, can be costly to repair or replace.

The good news is that introducing a whole-home humidifier can regulate the air’s moisture levels, preserving your wood furniture, flooring, and even wooden structural elements in your home.

Find Yours at Van Drunen Heating & Air Conditioning Today

If any (or all) of these signs resonate with you, Van Drunen Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help. With over five decades of experience, we specialize in installing and maintaining high-quality humidifiers to ensure your home remains comfortable year-round. Plus, our expert technicians will guide you in selecting the best solution tailored to your needs.

Don’t wait for your home’s indoor air quality to get worse. Contact us today to learn more about how a humidifier can transform your home.