Humidifiers and Allergy Season

As we approach allergy season, right now is the most important time to buy a humidifier. Why? Adding a humidifier to your home can help fight both allergens and allergy symptoms.

Did you know that more than 50 million people in the United States experience various types of allergies each year? And according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in the U.S.

So, how do humidifiers help? Humidifiers increase the relative humidity in the air. The increased humidity helps moisten your nasal passages, which helps relieve allergy symptoms.

So, what type of humidifier is best for allergies?

• Evaporative humidifiers: These models use a wicking filter to absorb water. As the water evaporates, the humidifier’s fan blows the evaporated moisture into the air. These humidifiers are the best option for whole-house humidification. This also cools the air in the process, making it a good choice in warmer climates.

• Ultrasonic humidifiers: Instead of a wicking filter, these models use a nebulizer, vibrating at an ultrasonic speed that breaks water particles into an ultrafine mist. The humidifier then, silently, propels this mist into the air.

• Steam humidifiers: These models are also wickless and include a heating element that boils the water in the humidifier. Steam humidifiers heat the water enough that irritating compounds like bacteria, algae, and mold can be destroyed. This makes it less likely that allergens will be released into the air than with other types of humidifiers.

This increase in moisture may help with your allergies. It may make them seem less severe if dry air has irritated your nasal passageways. When the air is dry and not at a healthy humidity level (between 40%-60%), you may experience irritated nasal passages, a scratchy throat, itchy eyes, and dry skin.

If you suffer from allergies, or just want to improve the indoor quality of your air, consider getting an AIRCARE humidifier. Experience what life is like without suffering from irritated nasal passages, a dry throat, and dry skin!