How to Combat Dry Air in the Winter in New Jersey
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Oh, winter — not only do you bring freezing temperatures, but you also fill our homes with dry, uncomfortable air that leaves us battling static shocks, dry skin, and scratchy throats. It’s the not-so-cozy side of cold weather we could all do without.
If you live in the Belmar, New Jersey area, you are all too familiar with these issues. Every year, when the temperatures drop and heaters start humming, the air inside our homes becomes uncomfortably dry. Many homeowners ask, “Why is the air so dry in winter?” The answer lies in both the cold climate and the heating systems that keep us warm.
Let’s break down why dry air happens in winter, how it impacts your home and health, and the best ways to combat dry air this season.
Why Is the Air Dry in Winter?
Cold Air Holds Less Moisture
During winter, outdoor air naturally contains very little humidity. When this cold air enters your home and is warmed by your heating system, it becomes even drier. That’s why you often wake up with dry skin, cracked lips, or a scratchy throat.
Heating Systems Make It Worse
Forced-air systems and furnaces, which are common in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, tend to remove moisture as they heat. While they keep you warm, they also leave you with dry, uncomfortable indoor air.
Lack of Fresh Airflow
Homes in Monmouth County are built to be energy-efficient—great for insulation, but not so great for ventilation. When windows stay tightly shut all season, fresh air can’t circulate, trapping dry, stale air inside. On milder winter days, crack a window for five minutes to refresh your air without losing too much heat.
Signs You’re Dealing with Dry Indoor Air
You might not see humidity levels, but you’ll certainly feel it. Common signs of dry air in winter include:
- Peeling wallpaper or paint
- Cracks in wooden furniture or trim
- Increased static electricity
- Nosebleeds or dry eyes
- Skin irritation or flaking
- Dry, sore throats upon waking
If any of this sounds familiar, it’s time to take action to combat dry air in your Belmar-area home.
Are Belmar Homes Prone to Dry Indoor Air?
Yes. Belmar and other coastal towns feature many older or seaside-style homes that can be drafty. Even small leaks allow cold, dry air to seep in, making indoor humidity control more challenging. Salty air exposure also wears down seals and window caulking more quickly, exacerbating air leaks. As a result, residents may notice uneven heating, dry air pockets, and even peeling paint or warped wood.
How to Combat Dry Air in Your Belmar, NJ Home
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends keeping your home’s relative humidity between 30% to 50%. Here are some ways to achieve that goal.
Use a portable humidifier
Adding a portable humidifier is a quick and easy way to replenish the air's moisture. It’s ideal for bedrooms and living spaces where you spend the most time. Bonus: Humidifiers can also help alleviate allergy symptoms.
Install a whole-home humidifier
For a long-term solution, consider a whole-home humidifier. It integrates with your heating system to maintain consistent humidity levels throughout your home—no need to refill tanks or relocate devices. If you’re unsure which model is right for your home, Air Experts Heating & Cooling in Belmar can recommend and install the best fit.
Add Moisture-Loving Houseplants
Plants like peace lilies, Boston ferns, and spider plants naturally release moisture through their leaves. According to Healthline, they not only beautify your home but may offer health benefits and improve indoor air.
Seal and Insulate Doors and Windows
Belmar’s coastal winds can sneak through cracks and gaps, bringing in more cold, dry air. Proper sealing keeps warmth in and dryness out.
Use Water Bowls Near Heat Sources
A simple DIY trick: place bowls of water near heating vents or radiators. As the water evaporates, it adds humidity to your indoor air.
Take Shorter, Cooler Showers
Hot showers can strip moisture from your skin. Instead, opt for warm—not hot—water, and apply lotion immediately after to lock in hydration.
The Health Impact of Dry Air
Dry air isn’t just uncomfortable—it may affect your health.
Residents in Belmar and surrounding Jersey Shore communities may notice:
- Dry skin and chapped lips
- Nasal irritation or nosebleeds
- Sinus congestion or infections
- Worsening asthma or allergies
- Scratchy throats and coughs
Maintaining balanced humidity helps protect both your comfort and well-being throughout the winter.
Keep Your Home Cozy and Comfortable This Winter
Whether you’re wondering why the air is dry in winter or looking for professional advice on how to combat dry air, Air Experts has your back. Our local HVAC professionals understand the challenges that Belmar homeowners face each winter and can provide personalized indoor air quality solutions to keep your home healthy and comfortable.
Call Air Experts today at 732-759-0934 to learn more about whole-home humidifiers and indoor air quality services in the Monmouth and Ocean County areas.