Many homeowners share the common misconception that the HVAC system (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) controls a home's temperature alone. In truth, the HVAC also controls a home's humidity level—or it should. The most effective HVAC systems include humidifiers. A humidifier elevates humidity levels in select rooms or throughout the entire home, preventing the air from becoming too dry and increasing the efficiency of the furnace.

As we all know, the Midwest (especially Kansas) is prone to extreme weather fluctuations. Even though our summers are hot and humid, our winters are excessively cold and dry. When we keep our furnaces blowing so we can stay warm, the air in our homes just gets drier. Humidifiers are an essential component to every HVAC in Olathe. If your HVAC system doesn't include a humidifier, you may be suffering from poor air quality and a host of other problems caused by extremely dry air.

Humidifiers offset the arid winter weather and condition the hot, dry air that comes out of your furnace. Dry air causes a variety of annoying physical ailments, such as chapped skin and sore throats or sinuses. Each day spent breathing dry air only exacerbates these problems, making you and your family susceptible to frequent colds, severe allergies, and other seasonal illnesses. Dry skin can lead to eczema outbreaks, especially in young children. Much like high humidity levels, excessively low humidity levels create a breeding ground for some bacteria and pathogens.

Humidifiers increase energy efficiency, which saves money and decreases your carbon footprint. Without a humidifier, your furnace has to work harder to keep you comfortable. The drier the air, the colder you'll feel—even when the thermostat is set pretty high. Think about it. In the summer when it's hot, added humidity can make the heat almost intolerable. In the winter, a little extra humidity brings welcome warmth and comfort.

Dry air can wreak havoc on your health and your home. How can you tell that humidity levels are too low? Here are some telltale signs:

• You feel cold even when your furnace is constantly running.
• You or family members suffer from chronic allergies, especially in the winter months.
• You or family members have dry, chapped skin or eczema outbreaks.
• You or family members experience frequent colds along with congestion, sinus infections, and sore throats.
• You frequently feel the effects of static electricity, especially shocks.
• Your houseplants are dry and brittle.
• Your wallpaper is beginning to peel or warp.
• Wood furnishings are showing premature wear and tear, including fading and cracking.

If you've experienced any of these, you probably need to add a humidifier to your HVAC system. (If you already have one, it may need to be serviced.) Call Davenport Services today to discuss your options! We specialize in providing the best plumbing and HVAC services in Olathe.