When I first relocated to Orland Park, Illinois, I wasn’t prepared for the severity of the winter conditions. I moved at the end of August, when the weather was beautiful. While the nights turned chilly in September, there was still plenty of sunshine during the days. By October, there was snow on the ground, and I was raising the thermostat a few degrees every morning. I had never felt outdoor temperatures below zero before. I had no idea the wind chill could make such a difference. My monthly utility bills were huge. I assumed there was something wrong with the furnace. It seemed to be running non stop and yet the house still felt chilly to me. Fortunately, I was able to find an experienced and knowledgeable HVAC contractor in Orland Park to service the heating system. The technician inspected the furnace and performed a thorough maintenance. Other than a slight buildup of dust within the inner workings, he found nothing wrong. He told me that the living environment felt chilly because of insufficient humidity. During colder weather, the air can’t retain as much moisture. The lack of proper humidity can cause health concerns and damage to home furnishings. Antiques and hardwood moldings tend to crack. Hardwood floors can become squeaky. Headaches, bloody noses, chapped lips, sore throats, congestion and trouble sleeping can all be blamed on a lack of moisture. The technician recommended an investment in a whole-home humidifier. He explained the different options available and pros and cons of each one. I ended up choosing a steam-style humidifier, and the improvement has been incredible. The living space is far more comfortable and feels warmer at lower thermostat settings.