**Taos AC: Altitude Lies Drying Summer Lasers?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe air in Taos, New Mexico, feels different. It’s not just the stunning mountain views or the vibrant art scene; it’s the dryness. A persistent, almost tangible dryness that cracks your skin, parches your throat, and makes you question if you remembered to drink enough water (you probably didn’t). For those of us who call Taos home, battling this arid climate is a daily ritual, especially during the summer months.
This isn’t just about comfort; it’s about health.
Let’s dive into practical solutions for surviving – and thriving – in Taos’ dry summer air, focusing on humidifiers, DIY cooling, and smart home design.
Humidifiers: Your First Line of Defense
Choosing the right humidifier isn’t as simple as grabbing the cheapest one off the shelf. Taos’ high altitude (around 7,000 feet) means the air holds less moisture to begin with.
Evaporative Humidifiers: These are generally the most affordable. They work by blowing air through a wet wick or filter. The downside? They can be less effective in very dry environments and require frequent cleaning to prevent mold growth. In Taos, you’ll need a larger unit than you might think. Look for models rated for a room size larger than your actual space.
Ultrasonic Humidifiers: These use high-frequency sound vibrations to create a cool mist. They’re quieter than evaporative models and don’t require filter replacements. However, they can sometimes leave a white dust residue on furniture if you have hard water. Use distilled water to avoid this.
Vaporizers: These boil water and release steam into the air. They can be effective but pose a burn risk, especially with children or pets. They also consume more energy.
Whole-House Humidifiers: If you have forced-air heating, consider a whole-house humidifier. These are installed directly into your HVAC system and provide consistent humidity throughout your home. While a larger investment, they are the most effective long-term solution.
DIY Evaporative Coolers: Taos-Style AC
Air conditioning isn’t standard in many Taos homes. The upfront cost and energy consumption can be prohibitive. But don’t despair! You can create your own evaporative cooler, also known as a “swamp cooler,” for a fraction of the price.
Here’s a simple DIY approach:
The Bucket System: Get a large plastic bucket (5-gallon is a good starting point). Drill holes around the upper half of the bucket.
The Wick: Submerge a thick cotton towel or burlap sack in the bucket, ensuring it’s long enough to drape over the sides.
The Fan: Position a fan to blow air across the wet towel. The evaporation of the water will cool the air.
The Placement: Place your DIY cooler near an open window to draw in fresh air.
Important Considerations:
- Water Source: Use distilled or filtered water to prevent mineral buildup and mold growth.
- Airflow: Ensure good ventilation to prevent the air from becoming too humid.
- Maintenance: Clean the bucket and towel regularly to prevent bacteria and mold.
Optimizing Window Placement: Natural Ventilation
Taos architecture often incorporates passive cooling strategies. Understanding these principles can help you maximize natural ventilation.
Cross-Ventilation: Open windows on opposite sides of your house to create a breeze. This is most effective when the windows are at different heights.
Night Flushing: Open windows at night to allow cool air to circulate. Close them during the day to trap the cool air inside.
Window Coverings: Use curtains, blinds, or shades to block sunlight during the hottest part of the day. Reflective window film can also be effective.
Native Plants: Nature’s Air Conditioners
Landscaping with native plants can help cool your home and reduce water consumption.
Trees: Plant deciduous trees on the south and west sides of your house to provide shade in the summer and allow sunlight in the winter.
Vines: Train vines to grow on trellises or walls to create a cooling effect.
Groundcover: Use drought-tolerant groundcover to reduce soil temperature and evaporation.
Addressing Health Concerns: Staying Healthy in the Dry Air
The dry air in Taos can exacerbate certain health conditions.
Nosebleeds: Use a saline nasal spray to keep your nasal passages moist. A humidifier in your bedroom can also help.
Dry Skin: Moisturize regularly with a thick, emollient cream. Avoid hot showers, which can strip your skin of its natural oils.
Respiratory Problems: If you have asthma or other respiratory problems, talk to your doctor about how to manage your symptoms in the dry air.
Dehydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Carry a water bottle with you and refill it often.
Common Mistakes and Pitfalls:
Ignoring Humidity Levels: Invest in a hygrometer to monitor the humidity levels in your home. Aim for a humidity level between 30% and 50%.
Over-Humidifying: Too much humidity can lead to mold growth. Monitor your humidity levels and adjust your humidifier accordingly.
Neglecting Maintenance: Humidifiers and evaporative coolers require regular cleaning to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
Relying Solely on One Solution: A combination of strategies, such as humidifiers, evaporative coolers, and natural ventilation, is often the most effective way to combat the dry air in Taos.
Real-World Application: The Martinez Family’s Story
The Martinez family, long-time residents of Taos, struggled with the dry air in their adobe home. They initially relied on a small, inexpensive humidifier, which proved ineffective. After consulting with a local HVAC technician, they installed a whole-house humidifier and implemented passive cooling strategies, such as opening windows at night and using window coverings during the day. They also planted native trees and vines around their home. As a result, they were able to significantly improve their indoor air quality and reduce their energy consumption.
Living in Taos is a unique experience. The beauty of the landscape is undeniable, but the dry air presents a constant challenge. By understanding the science behind humidity and implementing practical solutions, you can create a comfortable and healthy living environment. Don’t just survive the dry summer air; thrive in it.