Back to Basics: The Truth Behind Humidifier Pads

Posted on March 20th, 2009 in Brands by Humidifier Guide

Humidifiers are home appliances that even out humidity levels by increasing the amount of water vapor in indoor air. These electrical and mechanical implements can be whole-house units, like the freestanding console and in-duct central units, or room-specific units, which are also called tabletop or single-room humidifiers. Humidifiers with humidifier pads, impellers, vaporizers and ultrasonics are the four main kinds of humidifiers based on technology.

If you plan to buy filter-type humidifiers, you should know the kind and availability of humidifier pads the units would need. Filter-type humidifiers, which are also called evaporative humidifiers, use filters made of wick, sponge, foam or cloth. Some use damp grills to absorb water and strain sediments. In many humidifier consumer ratings, there are consumers who have shared that certain types of filters are hard to get by locally and have to be ordered online. If you are not very fond of ordering items through the Web, inquire if you could get humidifier pads for your desired unit, within your area.

Humidifier pads are very vital parts of filter-type humidifiers. Evaporative humidifiers come with a water tank or reservoir, basin, motorized fan and filter. Water from the tank flows into the basin, and the filter that is in contact with the basin draws water upward. The fan blows through the wet filter and causes water to evaporate. Since the filter traps sediments, minerals and grime, harmful elements do not become airborne.

Humidifier pads will only function well if they are regularly cleaned and replaced. Dirty and worn filters poorly strain dirt particles and even attract the growth of fungus and bacteria that can be blown into the air. Humidifier pads for in-duct or central units can be left untouched for several months, while filters for tabletop and console units need to be cleaned and changed often according to manufacturer’s instructions. Not all kinds of filters can be washed. Some can only be vacuumed to remove residue. For humidifier pads that can be washed, gentle soaking in cool water is usually enough.

Humidifier pads come in different shapes and sizes and have different care instructions. Most filters are very economical that changing instead of reusing them is much better. If you are unsure of what kind of humidifier pad to get, consult a humidifier salesperson that can point you to effective and durable brands. Keep in mind that a high price does not always equate to quality, and a filter on sale that is made of low-quality material is not necessarily a bargain. Always invest in a good filter.

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