Whole Home Humidifier
Effective 11/3/2025, the Whole Home Humidifier will be an option at $995.00. In Kova, you'll see a new section titled "Mechanical" and it will default to checking the box "Yes, Add a Humidifier to HVAC system". You'll have to change to "No" to remove it.
Why? When we removed window sills and hardwoods from our design options, the true need for a whole-home humidifier went away. It can now really be a buyer's decision based on their preferences.
Here are some explanations/scripts you can use when working with buyers.
YES to a Humidifier
A whole-home humidifier can be especially beneficial in homes with hardwood floors, wood trim, and window sills because these materials naturally expand and contract with changes in humidity. During the winter, indoor air can become very dry due to heating, which can cause wood to shrink, crack, or separate at the seams over time.
A whole-home humidifier is a great comfort upgrade, even in homes without hardwood floors or wood window sills. It helps maintain consistent indoor humidity, which makes the air feel warmer and more comfortable during the winter months.
While our homes don't have wood features that require protection, a whole-house humidifier still offers several perks:
- Convenience: With the system built into the HVAC, you don't need to worry about refilling or moving portable humidifiers around the home.
- Improved comfort: Balanced humidity helps prevent dry skin, chapped lips, and static electricity.
- Health benefits: Proper moisture levels can ease sinus irritation and make breathing easier in dry months.
- Home preservation: Even without wood floors, consistent humidity can help protect furniture, books, and other items sensitive to dry air.
In short, adding a whole-home humidifier is an easy way to enjoy consistent comfort, healthier air, and low-maintenance convenience throughout the year.
NO to a Humidifier
A whole-home humidifier can be especially beneficial in homes with hardwood floors, wood trim, and window sills because these materials naturally expand and contract with changes in humidity. During the winter, indoor air can become very dry due to heating, which can cause wood to shrink, crack, or separate at the seams over time.
Since our homes don't have hardwood floors or wood window sills, you can comfortably save the cost of adding a whole-house humidifier. Those systems are most helpful in protecting wood materials from drying or cracking during the winter. Without those features, there's much less concern about humidity affecting the home's finishes.
Our HVAC system already does a great job of maintaining a balanced indoor environment, so you'll still enjoy a comfortable home without the added installation, maintenance, or filter replacement costs associated with a humidifier. In this case, skipping that upgrade is a smart way to save money without sacrificing comfort or home quality.
Even without a whole-house humidifier, there are easy and affordable ways to control humidity levels in your home.
- Portable humidifiers: You can place small humidifiers in bedrooms or main living areas during the winter. They're inexpensive, simple to use, and let you adjust humidity right where you want it.
- Houseplants: Many indoor plants naturally release moisture into the air, helping boost humidity levels while also improving air quality.
- Boiling water or using stovetop cooking: Everyday activities like cooking or showering add natural moisture to the air.
- Humidity monitors: A small digital hygrometer can help you keep an eye on indoor humidity, so you'll know if it's getting too dry or too damp.
- Proper ventilation: Using exhaust fans and opening windows occasionally helps balance humidity and prevent excess moisture buildup in warmer months.
In short, there are alternative ways to maintain a comfortable home if you choose not to invest in a whole-home humidifier.
| Choosing a Whole-Home Humidifier | Not Choosing a Whole-Home Humidifier |
| Pros: | Pros: |
| Provides consistent, comfortable humidity throughout the home | No installation, maintenance, or filter replacement costs |
| Reduces dry skin, chapped lips, and static electricity | Your HVAC already maintains a comfortable indoor environment |
| Eases sinus irritation and improves overall indoor air quality | Portable humidifiers can be used in specific rooms if needed |
| Protects furniture, books, and other items sensitive to dry air | No added upfront cost—saves money while still being comfortable |
| Convenient, low-maintenance system built into HVAC | Less equipment to monitor or maintai |
| Cons: | Cons: |
| Added cost for installation and equipment | Air may feel slightly drier in winter months |
| Requires occasional filter replacement and maintenance | Portable solutions may need regular refilling or moving between rooms |
| Not strictly necessary if your home doesn’t have wood floors or trim | Some seasonal discomfort for those sensitive to very dry air |