What Does a Humidifier do to Improve Your Home

August 28, 2024

Are you searching for ways to improve your comfort at home? Try investing in a whole-home humidifier! Now you may be wondering “what does a whole-home humidifier do?” Whole-home humidifiers help improve indoor air quality, especially during the dry winter months or in areas with naturally low humidity. In this blog, we’ll explore all the ways a whole-home humidifier can improve your home and health. 

   

Benefits of a Whole-Home Humidifier 

1.  Say Goodbye to Dry Air 

Low humidity levels can lead to dry skin, irritated eyes, and discomfort. A whole-home humidifier maintains standard humidity levels, creating a more comfortable living environment. This can also make your home feel warmer in the winter, reducing the need to turn up the thermostat. 

 

2. Breathe Easy 

Proper humidity levels can help ease symptoms of respiratory issues, such as dry throat and sinus congestion. It also reduces the likelihood of nosebleeds and can help in reducing the spread of airborne viruses by keeping the mucous membranes moist. 

 

3. Preservation of Home Furnishings 

Wood furniture, flooring, and musical instruments can suffer from cracking and warping from dry air. A whole-home humidifier protects these valuable items and saves you from costly repairs and replacements by maintaining consistent humidity levels. 

 

4. Less Static Electricity 

Dry air increases static electricity, which can lead to annoying shocks and damage electronic equipment. A humidifier helps to reduce static build-up and gives you a shock-free environment. 

 

5. Save on Your Energy Bills 

Maintaining proper humidity levels can reduce the extra strain on your heating system. Humidified air feels warmer, which can allow you to lower your thermostat and save on heating costs over time.   

 

Types of Whole-Home Humidifiers 

Whole-home humidifiers are designed to provide consistent humidity throughout your entire home. The two main types are evaporative and steam humidifiers, each with its own method of adding moisture to the air. 

 

1. Evaporative Humidifiers 

Evaporative humidifiers use the natural process of evaporation to add moisture to the air. They are typically installed as part of your home’s HVAC system and come in two main variants: bypass and fan powered. 

 

  • Bypass Humidifiers: These units use a bypass duct to direct a portion of your home’s warm air through a water panel or evaporative pad. The air then picks up moisture before being returned to the home’s ductwork. Bypass humidifiers are energy-efficient and suitable for homes with existing HVAC systems. They tend to be quieter but may require a separate installation component. 

 

  • Fan-Powered Humidifiers: These units have a built-in fan that helps to force air through the water panel or pad, creating a more efficient moisture distribution. Fan-powered humidifiers are generally more effective in larger homes or in areas with higher humidity needs. They offer quicker humidity adjustments and are typically easier to install. 

 

2. Steam Humidifiers 

Steam humidifiers, also known as steam vaporizers, use an electric element to boil water and release steam into the air. The steam is cooled slightly before being distributed throughout the home. Steam humidifiers provide precise control over humidity levels and can reach higher humidity levels compared to evaporative models. They’re ideal for homes with specific humidity requirements or for those seeking a more robust solution to dry air issues. However, you should consider that steam humidifiers generally consume more energy than evaporative models due to the heating process. They also require more frequent maintenance to ensure proper operation and to prevent mineral build-up. 

 

Choosing the Right Whole-Home Humidifier 

When selecting a whole-home humidifier, consider factors such as the size of your home, your specific humidity needs, and energy efficiency. Consulting with a professional can help determine the best type and model for your situation, ensuring that you achieve optimal comfort and performance. 

 

At Custom Cooling & Heating, we specialize in helping you find the perfect cooling and heating solutions in Lincoln, Nebraska. Our experts can assist with selecting, installing, and maintaining the right humidifier for your home. We are your trusted partner for a comfortable home! 

 

Contact us today for advice, installation, and support to boost your home’s comfort and well-being. 

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The Benefits of Home Zoning Systems

April 25, 2025
Achieving the perfect indoor climate in every room of your home can be a challenge, especially when different family members have varying temperature preferences. If you find yourself constantly adjusting the thermostat to accommodate different areas of your home, a home zoning system could be the solution you need. At Custom Cooling & Heating, we specialize in innovative HVAC solutions , including home zoning systems, to provide enhanced comfort, energy efficiency, and cost savings. What is a Home Zoning System? A home zoning system divides your house into multiple climate-controlled areas, allowing you to set different temperatures for each zone. This system utilizes dampers within the ductwork and individual thermostats for each zone, giving you precise control over your home’s heating and cooling. Whether you want to cool the upstairs bedrooms while keeping the downstairs warmer, or adjust temperatures based on room usage, a zoning system makes it possible. Due to each home having a different duct design, Custom Cooling & Heating, INC will perform an onsite evaluation of the duct system and offer specific solutions for your system. Key Benefits of Home Zoning Systems 1. Enhanced Comfort for Every Room Traditional HVAC systems often create temperature inconsistencies, making some areas too hot or too cold. Zoning systems allow for customized climate control, ensuring every room stays at a comfortable temperature for its occupants. 2. Increased Energy Efficiency With a home zoning system, you can direct heating and cooling only where it’s needed, reducing energy waste. By not conditioning unoccupied areas, your HVAC system operates more efficiently, leading to lower energy consumption. 3. Lower Utility Bills By using energy more effectively, a zoning system can significantly cut down your monthly heating and cooling costs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy , homeowners can save up to 30% on energy bills with a properly installed zoning system. 4. Prolonged HVAC System Lifespan A traditional HVAC system works harder to maintain a uniform temperature throughout the entire home, leading to more wear and tear. A zoning system reduces strain on your HVAC unit, helping to extend its lifespan and reduce the need for frequent repairs. 5. Personalized Temperature Control Each zone in your home will have its own thermostat, allowing family members to set their preferred temperatures in different areas. This eliminates thermostat battles and ensures comfort for everyone. 6. Ideal for Multi-Story Homes & Large Spaces Homes with multiple floors often experience temperature imbalances. A zoning system helps regulate temperatures more effectively, keeping upper floors from getting too warm in the summer or too cold in the winter. Is a Home Zoning System Right for You? A home zoning system is ideal for homeowners who: Live in a 2-story home and are not comfortable on the 2nd floor Have rooms that are rarely used and don’t need constant heating or cooling. Experience noticeable temperature differences between floors or rooms. Want to reduce energy waste and lower their utility bills. Have family members with different temperature preferences. Experience the Benefits with Custom Cooling & Heating At Custom Cooling & Heating, we specialize in designing and installing home zoning systems tailored to your needs. Our expert team can assess your home’s layout and heating/cooling demands to create an efficient, customized solution that maximizes comfort and energy savings. If you’re ready to enhance your home’s climate control and efficiency, contact Custom Cooling & Heating today to learn more about our home zoning system solutions!

Heating and Cooling Your Outbuilding or Detached Garage

March 5, 2025
A detached garage, workshop, or outbuilding can be a game-changer for homeowners and businesses. Whether you're using it as a workspace, hobby area, man cave, or she-shed, keeping the space comfortable year-round is essential. However, heating and cooling an outbuilding isn’t as simple as adjusting the thermostat in your home. It requires the right equipment, proper insulation, and an expert touch to ensure efficiency and effectiveness. That’s where Custom Cooling & Heating, Inc. comes in—offering customized HVAC solutions designed specifically for your space. Here’s our tips to heating and cooling your outbuilding or detached garage. Why Heating and Cooling Matter in Your Outbuilding Many people assume they can get by with an old space heater or a window AC unit, but these are often inefficient, expensive to run, and unsafe. Proper climate control provides several benefits, including: Year-Round Comfort: Whether you’re working in the dead of winter or the heat of summer, your space remains comfortable. Equipment and Material Protection: If you store tools, paint, electronics, or vehicles in your outbuilding, temperature fluctuations can cause damage. Energy Efficiency: A well-planned heating and cooling system, combined with proper insulation, saves you money compared to makeshift solutions. Air Quality & Ventilation: Proper HVAC solutions improve air quality by reducing humidity, dust, and pollutants. Proper Insulation: The Key to Efficiency Before installing heating and cooling, proper insulation is crucial for maintaining efficiency and keeping costs low. Without adequate insulation, your system will have to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and uneven temperatures. Recommended insulation options include: Spray Foam Insulation – Best for air-sealing and providing high R-value per inch. Fiberglass Batts – A cost-effective and easy-to-install option for walls and ceilings. Rigid Foam Board – Ideal for insulating garage doors and concrete walls. Blown-in Insulation – Great for attics and hard-to-reach spaces. Choosing the Right Heating and Cooling System There are several HVAC options for outbuildings, each with its own advantages. Custom Cooling & Heating, Inc. specializes in helping you choose the best system for your specific needs. 1. Mini-Split Heat Pumps: The Most Versatile Option Ductless mini-split heat pump systems are one of the best choices for heating and cooling detached spaces. They offer: Energy efficiency – Uses inverter technology to adjust output based on demand. Zoned control – You can heat or cool only when needed. No ductwork required – Easier installation compared to traditional HVAC systems. Year-round performance – Provides both heating and cooling in one system. 2. Overhead Radiant Heat: Efficient and Even Heating For workshops or garages where dust or air movement is a concern, overhead radiant heating is an excellent option. Silent and efficient – Radiant heat warms objects, not just the air. No ductwork required – Ideal for open spaces with high ceilings. Great for workspaces – Keeps floors and workbenches warm, making it a popular choice for mechanics and woodworkers. 3. Forced Air Unit Heaters: High Heat Output Forced air unit heaters are a popular choice for larger garages and commercial spaces. Powerful heating – Can quickly warm up large spaces. Ceiling-mounted options – Saves floor space and distributes heat evenly. Gas or electric options – Choose the best energy source for your setup. 4. Packaged HVAC Units for Larger Spaces For larger workshops or outbuildings, a small forced-air furnace and AC system might be the best choice. While requiring ductwork, it delivers whole-space comfort and excellent efficiency. 5. Radiant Floor Heating for Ultimate Comfort If you're building or renovating your outbuilding, consider radiant floor heating for efficient, even heat distribution without blowing air or taking up wall space. 6. Typical Furnace: A Reliable Heating Solution A standard furnace installation can be an effective choice for larger outbuildings. Consistent and reliable – Provides a steady source of heat. Can be combined with central AC – Making it a complete climate control solution. Fuel options – Available in natural gas, propane, or electric models. Installation: Why Professional Setup Matters Improper installation can lead to higher energy bills, poor performance, and safety hazards. At Custom Cooling & Heating, Inc., our expert technicians ensure: Correct sizing – Too big or too small of a unit can be inefficient. Proper ventilation – Essential for gas heating and overall air quality. Smart placement – Optimizing airflow and performance. Seamless integration – Making sure your system works with any existing structures or utilities. Get a Custom HVAC Solution for Your Outbuilding Today Don't settle for a cold workshop in the winter or a stifling garage in the summer. Custom Cooling & Heating, Inc. specializes in designing and installing heating and cooling solutions tailored to your unique needs. Our team ensures professional installation, energy efficiency, and long-term comfort. Ready to transform your outbuilding? Contact us today for a consultation and get the perfect HVAC system for your space! Custom Cooling & Heating, Inc. | Lincoln, NE | Expert HVAC Solution