Adding moisture to the home during winter months has several benefits... Greater comfort (feeling of warmth) at lower temperatures, consistent humidity for woodwork (trim, wood floors, less cracking or gaps) and potential improved health / reduced illness (no dried out nasal passages, bloody noses, etc...)
Too much humidity is a bad thing -- typically indicated by condensation on your windows during cold temperatures. Ideally, your indoor humidity level should fluctuate relative to the outdoor temperature and ability of the air to sustain the moisture level. I swear by our whole home humidifier on a forced air system. For a hydronic (forced hot water system), I would recommend an evaporation type system that can do a whole house for about $100. You have to fill the jugs manually, but it's short money vs. a contractor to see if you even like the results.
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