The question of how to tell if air is dry in your house is a common one. Thankfully, there are some easy ways to test the air in your home for moisture, and some great products to use. But before you buy any of these, it’s important to know what to look for. Here are four things to watch out for.
Static electricity
Static electricity is a type of energy that is generated by rubbing two materials together. It is a result of the triboelectric effect, which occurs when a charged material rubs against a neutral one.
The triboelectric effect is not limited to friction contact. For instance, an electric shock can also be triggered by touching a person.
The most common cause of static buildup in the home is dry air. Dry air can be uncomfortable and lead to a number of health problems, including nose bleeds, dry skin, sinus irritation, and coughing.
However, it can also be very dangerous. One example is the triboelectric effect, which can lead to lightning. This is because the charged molecule is able to absorb moisture from the air. A higher humidity can reduce the number of charges that are released by a thunderstorm.
In addition, a high humidity can make it harder for the electrons in the air to move. By contrast, a lower humidity allows them to move freely.
One good way to keep your home at a reasonable relative humidity is to use a humidifier. This can help to keep the relative humidity in the house above 40%.
Keeping a close eye on the moisture content in the air is also helpful. If the relative humidity falls below 50%, the air may start to feel dry.
There are a few ways to combat this, including using a dryer sheet to remove static cling. But, in most cases, adding baking soda to your laundry isn’t a good solution.
Itchy and cracked skin
If you are having problems with dry and cracked skin, you might wonder if it is related to the air quality in your home. The cold, dry air in your home can increase your chances of having an infection. In addition, it can make your existing skin conditions worse. It can also cause your skin to flake and crack.
Keeping a humidifier in your home can help keep your skin moisturized. A good rule of thumb is to set the humidifier at around 30 percent humidity.
There are a few other ways you can test the air in your home. For example, you can use a skin-testing kit to check for a certain amount of moisture in your skin.
A dry mouth or nose is a common symptom of dry air. Dry nasal passageways can also make your throat feel itchy. You might also get a cough.
A thick moisturizer may be your best defense against the winter itch. But be careful when choosing a moisturizer. Avoid products with fragrance. Some moisturizers contain ingredients that can strip the skin of its natural oils.
Another tip is to avoid hot water. Hot water can strip the skin of its essential oils and cause dryness. However, if you do happen to have to shower, be sure to use lukewarm water.
Finally, if your itchy throat or cracked skin is severe, you should consult a health care provider. A doctor will diagnose your condition and determine a treatment plan. He or she will take a close look at your skin to ensure you don’t have an infection. Medications are available for mild to severe cases.
Sinus and nose bleeds
Nose bleeds are a very common medical condition. They can be caused by a number of different factors. Some of the most common causes are dry air, allergies, and sinus infections. Fortunately, most nose bleeds are not dangerous. However, if they occur frequently, they may be a sign of a more serious health issue. If the bleeding does not stop after a few days, see a doctor.
The lining of the nasal cavity is comprised of many small blood vessels. These vessels lie very close to the surface, so they are easily irritated. When you rub your nose, or scratch the lining, the blood vessels can be damaged and bleed.
When the lining of the nose is damaged, bacteria can enter through the open wound. If you are experiencing a fever, or if your nose bleeds repeatedly, you should see a doctor. Other symptoms of a sinus infection include frequent sneezing, headaches, and aches in the cheeks.
Nasal membranes can become cracked and irritated if they are exposed to dry indoor air. This can be prevented by keeping your home humidified. You can also use a saline spray to moisturize your nostrils.
In addition, a cold compress can help slow down a nosebleed. Applying an ice pack for thirty minutes can constrict the blood vessels and reduce the bleeding.
A doctor can prescribe antihistamines and other medications for dry sinuses. If you are taking prescription medication, you should discuss potential side effects with your doctor.
Ceiling or wall fractures
If you haven’t been keeping an eye on the humidity levels in your house, you may be wondering how you go about it. One way to do it is to get your hands on a hygrometer. Another good ol’ fashioned method of measuring the moisture in your home is to use a thermometer. The hygrometer is a bit on the pricey side, but if you’re looking to save a few bucks, a good quality dehumidifier is a great way to keep the dry air out.
The best thing about having a central dehumidifier is the fact that you can control the humidity levels in your home without having to leave the door open. This can go a long way in helping you sleep better at night, as well as help your house feel a bit more like a home. As for the actual cost of the device, you can count on a few hundred dollars, but it’s not hard to find a decent quality humidifier. To make it easier on your pocketbook, be sure to check out Summers & Zim’s top-of-the-line humidifiers, ranging from a modest $100 to a whopping $1,500. They’re the only company rated for customer service in the industry, and should be your first call when you need a little help with the humidity in your home.
Asthma and allergy flare-ups
Asthma is a condition that causes inflammation of the airways. This inflamed airway narrows, making it harder for air to reach the lungs. When this happens, the muscles of the bronchial tubes spasm, causing shortness of breath. It’s important to keep your airways free of allergens and other triggers.
The symptoms of asthma may be worsened by a combination of changes in weather, allergens, and indoor irritants. For example, if you are allergic to pollen, you may have asthma symptoms that worsen in the fall or spring. On the other hand, if you are allergic to dust mites, your symptoms might be worsened by a dry house.
Indoor allergens include dust, pollen, mold, and pet dander. If you are allergic to these, you should limit your time in the home. To determine if you have an allergy to any of these, you can perform a skin test. Alternatively, you can consult with a healthcare provider to do a blood or skin test.
You should also avoid activities that worsen your asthma. If you are a smoker, you should avoid smoking inside your home. Keeping your house free of cigarette smoke is an important asthma prevention measure.
Many people with asthma find that humid weather makes their asthma worse. This is due to the fact that ozone increases with increased humidity levels. In addition, mold grows better in humidity.