Do you need a humidifier or dehumidifier?

Humidifiers and dehumidifiers can both help improve air quality in your room. But which one to choose? We'll help you answer that question.
Do you need a humidifier or a dehumidifier?

Excessive humidity in the air - or the lack of it - can lead to certain health problems, particularly for vulnerable people such as newborns or asthmatics. It may therefore be necessary to use a humidifier or dehumidifier. Which to choose? It all depends on the climatic conditions in your home.

The rule is very simple: in dry environments, it's better to use a humidifier, and in humid environments, a dehumidifier. The former adds moisture to the air, the latter removes it. During the summer, for example, humidity increases with higher temperatures and takes the form of water vapour.

In general, it is estimated that the humidity in a room should be between 45% and 55%. How do you measure water vapour levels in a room? It's easy, with a table-top hygrometer.

What is a humidifier and how does it work?

A humidifier is a device used to increase air humidity. They are available online or in electrical goods stores. Contrary to what many people think, they are often affordable. Installation is not complex, but it does involve filling a container with water.

It also features a system that evaporates the water contained in the container. The water becomes part of the air in the room where the unit is installed. It thus achieves its objective: less dryness in the room.

In very dry environments, the humidifier increases humidity in the home.

What types of humidifier are available on the market?

Depending on the make and model of humidifier, it will have a certain system and therefore a certain cost. There are three basic models. Let's take a look.

1.Hot-steam humidifier
This model does not require the use of distilled water; tap or bottled water is equally suitable. In general, the water is heated until it becomes hot steam.

By boiling the liquid, existing bacteria are killed, so the air is not contaminated. However, the hot-steam humidifier does require some caution, especially if children are in the room, as they could be burned.

2.Cool mist
Cool mist humidifiers work with ultrasound, which is responsible for the safe evaporation of water. This model is ideal for summer, as it refreshes the air in the room.

However, this device only works with distilled water, as it does not heat up; if ordinary water is used, infectious micro-organisms can be filtered into the air.

3.Ultrasound
These ultrasonic devices feature a transducer that rapidly vibrates the water until it is broken down. This process produces fresh steam. As with the previous humidifier, you need to use distilled water. You should also ensure that the water tank is kept clean.

On the other hand, this humidifier delivers a higher steam output than its counterparts; without prejudice to the above, it is also quieter. This makes it ideal for periods of rest.

Some benefits of a humidifier at home

Reduced risk of dry eyes, dry skin and dry lips. Lack of humidity in the air causes these symptoms.
Minimizes the onset of respiratory problems linked to asthma, flu, colds or allergies. In fact, the air you breathe becomes less aggressive.
The environment in which the humidifier is placed becomes healthier for babies.

Varnish on furniture or wall paint tends to crack less, and the edges of wallpaper don't peel off. This phenomenon is very common in dry environments.

If you have indoor plants, they suffer less. This device helps maintain watering humidity for longer.

What is a dehumidifier and how does it work?

A dehumidifier performs the opposite function of a humidifier. It reduces excess humidity in the air. So, if you're having problems with humidity in your home, this appliance can help you combat them quickly and effectively.

In particular, this appliance consists of a device that captures moisture, traps it and pours it into a bucket. If you live in a summer region, where the heat is so intense as to be unpleasant, consider purchasing a dehumidifier to enhance your experience.

Remember that a very humid environment is warmer in summer. In winter, on the other hand, high humidity makes for a colder environment. Both circumstances can aggravate any respiratory condition.

That said, damp walls, a damp smell and mold stains are clear signs that you should get a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier prevents water condensation in the home and, consequently, the problems associated with it.

A dehumidifier traps moisture and collects it in a bucket. It's ideal for preventing odors and mold stains.

Some benefits of a dehumidifier in the home

It can improve respiratory conditions, particularly those linked to allergies and asthma. It eliminates the conditions in which dust mites and molds thrive.

It reduces discomfort associated with bone problems or arthritis. Humidity aggravates these conditions.

Reduced air-conditioning costs.

It prevents dampness in walls, corrosion of metal objects, pipes and household appliances.

It helps dry laundry, which can take a long time to dry in damp environments and sometimes take on an unpleasant musty smell.

It doesn't require any complex installations: simply empty the container in which the condensed water is stored on a regular basis.

Create a healthy, pleasant climate in your rooms with a humidifier or dehumidifier.

Today, it's possible to reduce the discomfort associated with high or low humidity. Simply pay attention to the signs described above to make the right choice of appliance, whether humidifier or dehumidifier.

Some of these appliances work with tablets or essential oils, making the experience more pleasant. Don't forget that there are summers when the air is dry and others when it's humid, for example. Your purchase will depend on it.

Wishing you a comfortable life!

The Protech Allergies team