8 Easy Ways to Raise Your Business’s Humidity Levels This Winter

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends maintaining indoor humidity levels between 30 and 50 percent. But as temperatures drop, so does your indoor humidity level, thereby leaving your employees susceptible to fatigue and sinus issues. This is a common dilemma this time of year, but fortunately, we have some practical solutions for you.

#1. Introduce a Few Houseplants

When you water houseplants, the roots absorb only a small amount of liquid. The rest is lost to the atmosphere through a process known as transpiration. During transpiration, that excess water adds essential moisture back into the room.

Houseplants provide another benefit, and that is improved indoor air quality. Plus, they can boost morale by providing a home-like atmosphere to work. Just don’t forget to water your plants (or assign a trustworthy employee to do so).

#2. Boil Water on a Hotplate

Rather than a traditional coffeepot, consider a kettle and hotplate instead. The steam from your hotplate will instantly provide much-needed moisture to the air. And your workers will also have more choices when it comes to hot beverages, so this could be a significant morale booster during those cold winter months.

#3. Offer Plenty of Clean Drinking Water

Just because winter has arrived does not mean you can hide the water cooler until spring. Staying well hydrated is just as important in winter as it is in summer, and workers who drink adequate amounts of water are less likely to experience allergies, sinus problems, or headaches. So along with your hot water, don’t forget to provide lots of cool drinking water as well.

#4. Install an Indoor Fountain or Waterfall

Indoor fountains or waterfalls can add a touch of ambiance while also increasing the amount of humidity in your air. Foyers and customer waiting rooms are ideal spots to include a water feature, as they also provide a calming, soothing effect. However, even a small desktop fountain will provide some benefits if space is at a premium.

#5. Use a Water Bottle to Spritz Things

Spritz soft surfaces such as carpeting, furniture, and drapes several times a day with a water bottle. As the water evaporates, it will add much-needed moisture back into the air. Even misting your houseplants or spraying directly into the air around you will work. Just be careful not to spray around computers or electronics as water could damage them.

#6. Turn Off Machinery and Equipment

Office equipment and heavy machinery will all produce heat, even when they are not used. In turn, the heat they emit will dry out the air and decrease humidity levels. When not in use, turn off equipment such as copy machines, computers, and machinery. Not only will you enjoy better indoor air quality, but you may also experience some energy savings.

#7. Consider Installing a Commercial-Grade Humidifier

Many of the above suggestions may seem impractical if you have a very large facility with multiple climate zones. In that case, you may wish to consider installing a humidifier instead. A commercial humidifier will make it easier to track indoor moisture levels, so you can make adjustments on the fly if needed.

#8. Keep your HVAC System Tuned Up

You are less likely to experience humidity and indoor air quality issues if your heating and cooling system is in top shape. That’s why scheduling regular tune-ups with South Jersey Heating and Cooling is so essential. If you are concerned about humidity levels or just want to be ready for colder weather, please call us today to schedule an appointment.