Why Does the Air Feel So Dry with the Heat On?

When winter sets in, running the heat should make your home feel cozy. Instead, your skin cracks, your nose hurts, and even breathing feels uncomfortable. You might tell yourself it’s not actually dry, it’s just warm. But, as a company that has worked with furnaces for over 50 years, Van Drunen Heating & Air Conditioning can confirm you’re not going crazy. The air does feel drier with the heat on because:

• Cold air naturally holds less moisture, so when it’s heated, it feels even drier.
• Furnaces don’t add humidity, so your air loses what little moisture it had.
• Tightly sealed homes trap dry air inside, preventing fresh moisture from circulating.

Let’s explore what’s actually happening to your air when you turn the heat on and what you can do to make it comfortable again.

What Happens to the Air When You Turn on the Heat?

When your furnace pulls in cold winter air, it raises the temperature, but the moisture content of that air stays the same. As the air warms, it expands, and the existing moisture becomes more evenly distributed. That drop in relative humidity is what makes your home feel so dry.

Most heating systems don’t introduce any new humidity, so the dry air keeps circulating from room to room. Over time, your home’s humidity level can dip below 30%, well under the 30–50% range where people and homes feel most comfortable. That’s why your skin dries out, static builds up, and the air feels sharp or “thin” no matter how high you set the thermostat.

Why Does Dry Air Make My Skin, Nose, and Throat So Uncomfortable?

Your body feels the effects of dry air because low humidity causes moisture to evaporate faster from your skin and sinuses. This rapid evaporation can lead to a host of uncomfortable symptoms, including:

• Cracked, itchy skin
• Irritated nasal passages and nosebleeds
• Sore throats
• Worsened allergy and asthma symptoms

Low humidity can also make you feel colder than the thermostat setting suggests. Moisture in the air helps your body retain heat, so when the air is dry, you may find yourself cranking up the thermostat for relief, which only exacerbates the issue.

How Can I Add Moisture Back into My Home’s Air?

Restoring proper moisture levels in your home’s air is crucial for comfort and health. Here’s a straightforward approach to addressing dry air issues:

1. Install a Whole-Home Humidifier: For comprehensive, consistent humidity control, consider installing a whole-home humidifier with your furnace. This system works seamlessly with your HVAC to maintain optimal humidity throughout your entire residence.

2. Utilize Portable Humidifiers: For targeted relief, strategically place portable humidifiers in specific areas like bedrooms or frequently used living spaces. This offers a flexible solution for localized dryness.

3. Employ Natural Humidification Methods: Incorporate simple, natural ways to add moisture to the air:

• –   Introduce Houseplants: Many plants naturally release moisture into the air.
  •   Air-Dry Laundry Indoors: Allow clothes to air-dry inside, releasing moisture as they dry.
  •   Let Steam Escape: After a shower, let the steam dissipate in your home rather than immediately vent it.

4. Maintain Clean Furnace Filters: Regularly cleaning or replacing your furnace filters is vital. Clean filters provide steady airflow, which in turn supports better moisture balance and overall HVAC efficiency.

Remember, for optimal comfort and health, aim to keep your indoor humidity levels consistently between 30% and 50%.

When Should I Call a Professional About Dry Air Problems?

You should call a heating and air conditioning professional if your air feels dry, no matter what you do. If you have tried portable units and other simple fixes without success, there could be a larger issue at play. Problems like duct leaks, poor ventilation, or an improperly sized furnace can all contribute to chronic dry air. A trained technician can accurately measure your home’s humidity levels, inspect your HVAC system for underlying problems, and recommend tailored solutions. A professionally installed whole-home humidifier will not only improve your comfort but also protect wood furniture, flooring, and even musical instruments from damage caused by dry air.

A Little Humidity Goes a Long Way

You don’t have to live with dry, uncomfortable air all winter. Achieving a balanced humidity level will make your home feel warmer, healthier, and more welcoming for you and your family. Small adjustments can make a significant difference in your indoor comfort.

If the air in your home feels painfully dry this winter, contact Van Drunen Heating & Air Conditioning. We’ll help you find the right humidification solution and bring comfort back to every room.