[HANASHIR:9747] Re: humidifiers

[Edward Katz <edkatz...>]

If you live in a northern climate, and use heat
for most of the winter, maintenance of adequate
relative humidity is important to prevent skin
and respiratory irritation. An ideal humidity level
in most homes is around 35-40%. It makes little
difference whether you use hot or cold water for
humdification, although heating of water will probably
require more energy consumption. I have no specific
suggestions about brands or models - check your
consumer magazines. But, whichever model you buy,
it is important to ensure that your unit remains
clean. Bacterial and fungal overgrowth may result
from unclean units. If you use a large drum-type
humdifier, which may be enough to humidify an entire
apartment or small home, periodic cleaning of the
water reservoir with hot water and bleach is necessary.
For smaller units with filter cartridges, follow
the manufacturer's recommendations concerning maintenance
and replacement of the cartridges. And make sure
you have a hygrometer or two to check the actual
relative humidity level in your home.

Edward Katz, M.D.
Shaare Zion Congragation Choir
Montreal



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