MyNewPlace Blog

Following a weekend of 60 degrees and above, the urgency with which we are putting up the final step in keeping your apartment warm this winter has somewhat dissipated. The probability that we take our own advice on this one is also yet to be determined, but for those renters in a colder climate, using a vaporizer or humidifier to keep moisture in the air can aid insulation.

Nonetheless, this last step is important because it will keep your apartment warmer without turning up the heat as well as improving the hospitability of your apartment in the probable case that you catch the flu this winter.

By using a humidifier or vaporizer to keep the air from drying out, the air in your apartment will hold warmth more effectively. Also, your apartment will be a much better suited for recuperation, as a more humid climate will not dry out your nasal passages and it will allow for a more productive cough. Another great way to keep your apartment healthy is will certain detoxifying plants, which are also helpful for when either you or your roommates are sick.

According to one anecdotal account, a renter was able to keep their thermostat 5 degrees lower after employing the use of a humidifier.

After doing some research, it seems to us that a vaporizer is a better option for a cold and until very recently, drafty apartment because it boils water and releases the steam into your apartment. This makes the water vapor 1) warm, and 2) eliminates the spread of any mineral or bacteria that is in the water.

Now, it is important to first insulate your apartment against the outside elements with the techniques laid out in last week's blog posts. Make sure that you are not losing heat through your windows or through other holes in your walls, such as electrical outlets and under door gaps. If you try to run a vaporizer without having an insulated apartment, you will just be cold and damp, which are not advisable conditions for anyone, sick or not.

So, a quick rundown; first, touch your windows, if they are cold, create an air pillow by using insulating plastic film. Then, plug up all the other leaks in your house, paying special attention to outlets and door gaps. Once your apartment is sufficiently insulated, use a vaporizer to put moisture in the air, which will help retain heat.

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