Humidification in winter

[s219]

We just built a new house,using open loop geothermal heat/ac. So far this winter the humidity has stayed around 35-40%. Do you all think we need to add humidifier?

It depends -- are you comfortable? I can tell when it's time to switch on the humidifier for the season when I start getting sinus issues. We have ours set to 45% (its highest setting) and it really helps. When outside temperatures drop during an extreme cold snap, I will crank it back to 30-35% if I start seeing too much moisture/frost on the windows.

We mainly heat with geothermal system, but supplement with wood fireplace (also for enjoyment). The fireplace will definitely dry out the interior air.

 

[orezok]

We just built a new house,using open loop geothermal heat/ac. So far this winter the humidity has stayed around 35-40%. Do you all think we need to add humidifier?

This chart might help.

 

[Travelover]

I have an old Aprilaire furnace humidifier. The instructions say not to use softened water and indeed, I can see where the original owner re-plumbed it from softened to unsoftened water. It does build up mineral deposits over time and needs the pad changed yearly and the deposits melted off with a mild acid every few years. I augment it with a Holmes portable humidifier in the bedroom.

 

[Cpjlube]

I have an old Aprilaire furnace humidifier. The instructions say not to use softened water and indeed, I can see where the original owner re-plumbed it from softened to unsoftened water. It does build up mineral deposits over time and needs the pad changed yearly and the deposits melted off with a mild acid every few years. I augment it with a Holmes portable humidifier in the bedroom.

I'm using the Aprilair 600. I use softened hot water for the humidifier. It stayed pretty clean until I forgot to add salt. Only took about three weeks to waste the water panel. Turned a healthy orange pretty quick. I'll stick to softened water. I replace mine at least once a year. The panel is about 10 dollars on Amazon.