Humidifiers

A humidifier is a device that adds moisture to indoor air in a single room or throughout an entire house. Whole-home humidifiers may use the fan in your furnace or air handler to blow humidified air throughout the ductwork.

How do I know if I need a humidifier?

First off, most homes dry out due to their heating and cooling systems. The blasting air of a furnace or A/C unit can really dehydrate a house. But a central humidifier catches the culprit right at the source by moisturizing air as it leaves your HVAC system.

Low humidity can have a negative impact on your home and your health. First, it can dry out skin and airways, leaving family members vulnerable to colds and respiratory problems such as asthma and bronchitis. Dry air can also cause cracks in plaster, drywall and wood furniture – which can become costly repairs. 

Plus, low humidity makes indoor air feel colder than it actually is, so you’ll likely need to turn up your thermostat to feel comfortable. In this case, you’ll feel the effects on your utility bills as well. Installing a whole-home humidifier is an easy way to enhance your family’s comfort and health, without increasing your heating costs.

Type of humidifier

There are two main types of humidifiers: portable and whole-home. Portable units can add moisture to the air in a single room, but they need frequent maintenance and cleaning. Whole-home humidifiers work with your heating and cooling system to effectively balance humidity levels throughout your entire house. That means family members will be breathing healthier air and you’ll likely be able to lower your thermostat as well.

Whole-home humidifiers include bypass and power options. Bypass humidifiers work with your air handler or furnace fan to direct humidified air throughout the home. Power humidifiers work independently of your heating and cooling system, using a built-in fan to distribute humidified air even when your system isn’t running.

Also, compared to portable units, it doesn’t require much maintenance. You won’t have to refill the water supply since it’s tied directly into your plumbing. Plus, since they don’t use a supply tank of standing water like console models, there is less chance for bacteria buildup which can then spread into the air.

Portable units may be less expensive upfront, but the electricity and water they waste ends up costing you in the long run. And they’re a bit of a hassle: you have to walk around them, they can sometimes spill and sweat, and if you have a steam unit they can often be dangerous to passing children or pets. Whereas a central air humidifier is out of sight and only functions when needed.

Benefits of Evaporative Humidification:

• Prevents Flu and Allergies
• Neutralizes Static Electricity
• Reduces Pet Dander and Discomfort
• Protects Fine Furniture and Wood Floors
• Relieves Dry Skin & Scratchy Throats
• Reduces Heating Costs