Dry Air? Try TrueSTEAM Humidification

Maintaining an adequate level of humidification in your home is an important factor in how your living spaces feel and how you and your family feel living in them. A relative humidity level between 35 and 50 percent will help keep your indoor environment comfortable and at a temperature consistent with the season.If the humidity level in your home falls below this level, you’ll begin to feel some of the unpleasant symptoms of dry air. These include itchy skin, dry sinuses, nosebleeds, irritated throats and aggravation of respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies. Dry air can also cause damage to your home, warping floors, paneling and furniture.The Honeywell TrueSTEAM humidification system is a reliable solution to dry air problems in your home. A TrueSTEAM humidifier provides an effective alternative to larger whole-house humidifiers. Its small size makes it especially appropriate for areas where space is at a premium.The TrueSTEAM humidification system produces steam that increases your home’s humidity level. It uses up to 70 percent less water than other humidification systems yet is more effective than a whole-house model.The unit produces steam independent of HVAC equipment operation, which means that humidification will be available without having to rely on a boost from the furnace.TrueSTEAM humidification does not rely on moistened pads or similar techniques to produce steam. These pads can attract and hold bacteria that grow within the pad and then end up in your home’s indoor air. Instead, the TrueSTEAM uses an independent water tank as its moisture source. If the unit is inactive for 48 hours, it automatically empties the tank to prevent water stagnation or the growth of microorganisms in the water supply.With air moistened by the TrueSTEAM humidifier, you will also likely save money on your heating bills. Since adequately moisturized air feels warmer, you’ll be able to run your heating system at lower levels.Contact Air Assurance today for more information on TrueSTEAM humidification systems and how they can improve your indoor comfort. We've been serving the Tulsa and Broken Arrow areas for more than 30 years.Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Humidifier Care and Cleaning Tips

Hands down, the benefits of using a humidifier surpass any downside of owning one. Adding moisture to the air through humidification decreases the discomfort you may experience due to dry sinuses or skin. Humidification also decreases the likelihood of static electricity, cracked wood furniture or floors and a host of other problems associated with dry air.There are, however, some hazards to avoid when using a humidifier, whether it’s a portable unit or a whole-house system. Too much moisture is a breeding ground for organisms like mold and dust mites. Therefore, it’s important to maintain a safe, comfortable humidity level (no higher than 50 percent) and to properly care for and clean a humidifier to avoid such conditions.For portable and whole-house units:

• Use water with a low mineral content to avoid buildup in the tank and prevent the release of minerals into the air.

• Owner’s manuals include manufacturer’s directions for cleaning and what products to use. In any case, you can use a mix of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide and water. After cleaning, rinse the tank thoroughly with water.

• Use a hygrometer, commonly found at a hardware supply store, to gauge humidity and maintain levels below 50 percent.

• Keep areas around the unit dry. Any dampness that occurs, such as a wet carpet or floor, invites organisms to form.

• Use only approved parts when replacing or cleaning the unit, according to manufacturer suggestions.

• If you won’t be using the humidifier for awhile, clean it before storing it away or turning it off.

For portable units only:

• Clean frequently, at least every three days. Drain water from the tank and use a scrubbing brush to clean around the inside. Be sure to scrape away mineral deposits and build up. Dry the tank.

• Every day, use new water in the tank.

For whole-house systems only:For systems with a holding tank, regular water changes are recommended. Water that collects inside the tank provides conditions for organisms to develop.Questions? Thinking about upgrading to a whole-house humidifier. At Air Assurance, we want you to get the most comfort from your home heating and cooling investment. Call us if we can help.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information, click here. Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. To get started, check out our website or see our current promotions.