Updated 2 November 2026 · By Diego Gómez
What indoor humidity should you have in a Canadian winter?
Dry air, static and cracked lips, or frost on the windows? The humidity range to aim for in winter, and when a humidifier helps or hurts.
Cold winter air holds very little moisture, so when it's heated indoors the relative humidity drops. That's why Canadian homes get dry skin, static shocks and sore throats in January.
The range to aim for
Health Canada's general guidance is to keep indoor relative humidity roughly between 30% and 50%. During very cold spells, aim for the lower end: Canadian utilities such as ATCO suggest around 30–35% in winter to avoid condensation on windows.
How to get there
- Measure it with a cheap hygrometer.
- Too dry (below 30%)? A humidifier with a humidity sensor, set to around 35–40%.
- Frost or water on the windows? Humidity is too high for the outdoor temperature. Turn the humidifier down, run bathroom and kitchen fans, and see our condensation guide.
- Damp basement in spring and summer? That's the opposite problem: see basement dehumidifiers.
Source: ATCO, "What is the best humidity for your home in Alberta?", citing Health Canada.
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FAQs
Should I run a humidifier all winter?
Only if your home is below about 30%. Use one with a built-in humidity sensor, clean it regularly, and turn it down when it's very cold outside or windows start to frost.
Why do my windows frost on the inside?
Warm, moist indoor air is hitting cold glass. Lower the humidity a little, keep curtains open slightly so warm air reaches the glass, and run exhaust fans.