Install Instructions

Page 24

FAQs about IAQ

(Frequently Asked Questions about Indoor Air Quality)

Why do I need a humidier?

More and more homeowners are realizing that, during the winter months,

they live in a “sick house”. Family members suffer from dry, itchy skin,

parched throats and annoying coughs. Furniture creaks, oors moan, the

piano slips out of tune and static electricity zaps the cat. In general, every-

one feels miserable because they’re living in an environment that can be

drier than a desert!

Proper home humidication reduces static electricity, revitalizes dry skin

and soothes scratchy throats. It adds moisture to dry, cracked furniture

and wilting houseplants. It protects valuable artwork, antiques and musical

instruments. It even saves money on winter heating bills. That’s because

properly humidied air feels warmer, allowing you to turn your thermostat

down a few degrees.

Why should I lower my humidistat setting when the outside tempera-

ture drops?

This practice may seem illogical at rst. After all, you increase the tem-

perature on your thermostat as the weather becomes colder. Why not do

the same with you humidistat?

The answer is that the relative humidity (RH) must be reduced in

extreme cold weather to prevent condensation on windows and interior

surfaces. Otherwise, the excess moisture will eventually cause damage

to your home. RH refers to the percentage of water vapor in the air at

a specic temperature. Because air expands when heated, the relative

humidity decreases unless moisture is added. Conversely, air that is

cooled contracts, causing relative humidity to increase until it reaches

dew point—the temperature at which the air becomes saturated and water

condenses (just as it does on a glass of ice water on a warm, humid day).

For recommended humidistat settings, see page 16.

I just installed a Skuttle humidier in my house. Why don’t I feel any

difference?

The period of adjustment can take up to three weeks—the time needed for

your furniture, woodwork, carpeting, plaster and house plants to absorb

their natural levels of moisture.

Should I run my humidier during the summer months?

Because, in most areas of the country, summer air is naturally more humid,

it’s not necessary to humidify your home until colder weather sets in.

NOTE: For additional answers to your questions, visit