Dry Winter Air in Central Alberta Homes
Central Alberta winters are very dry, and heating cold outdoor air makes indoor air drier still. A little moisture added the right way makes a house feel warmer at the same thermostat setting.
Request an HVAC technicianSigns of dry air
Static shocks, dry skin and eyes, nosebleeds, cracked wood trim and gaps between hardwood boards all point to low indoor humidity.
How a humidifier works
A furnace humidifier mounts on the ductwork and adds moisture to warm air as it leaves the furnace. Bypass, fan-powered and steam types all exist, with different upkeep.
Setting it right
When it's very cold outside, lower the setting. Too much moisture condenses on windows and can lead to frost, water damage and mould on sills.
Keep it clean
Replace the pad or clean the reservoir each fall and spring. A neglected humidifier can grow mould or scale up and stop working.
Seal the drafts
Leaky houses pull in more dry outdoor air. Sealing gaps keeps both heat and moisture inside.
Ventilation still matters
A well-sealed home still needs fresh air. An HRV swaps stale air for fresh while keeping most of the heat.
Get help
See ductwork and air quality for humidifier installs and airflow fixes.
Window frost as a guide
If frost builds up at the bottom of the glass on cold mornings, humidity is too high for the outdoor temperature. Lower the setting a step and watch for a few days.
Houseplants and pets
Dry air is hard on houseplants and can bother pets too. Grouping plants together and keeping water bowls full help a little, but a properly set humidifier does far more.
Wood floors and instruments
Hardwood floors, wood furniture and musical instruments shrink and crack in very dry air. Keeping indoor humidity in a moderate, steady range through the winter protects them as well as your comfort.
More heating and cooling guides
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