Helpful Hint: Always Keep Your Humidifier Water Clean

Posted on May 5th, 2009 in Information by Humidifier Guide

A humidifier can save you from dry skin, irritated eyes, chapped lips and sore throat caused by low humidity. It can also lessen your chances of getting colds, cough and asthma. A low level of humidity means there is not much water vapor in the air, and a humidifier increases moisture in the atmosphere. For a humidifier to serve its purpose, it needs to be installed properly and cleaned regularly. Humidifier water needs to be changed as often as possible depending on the humidifier instructions. Stagnant humidifier water is a breeding ground for molds and bacteria. When the humidifier fan hits the humidifier water, it blows with it unwanted elements than can enter your respiratory system.

There are two types of humidifiers based on the air they release: warm air and cold air humidifiers. Each type has its pros and cons, so it is best that you know what warm air and cold air humidifiers have to offer before you buy a unit. Humidifiers also vary when it comes to their water-output capacity, which determines the size of the area they can humidify. Tabletop humidifiers are small, portable, single-room units while central and console humidifiers are bigger, whole-house humidifying units. Humidifier water in tabletop humidifiers has to be changed more often than that in general humidifiers.

The steam humidifier or vaporizer, which is an example of a warm air humidifier, releases steam from boiling the humidifier water. With the steam humidifier, you do not have to worry about molds and bacteria because they cannot thrive in the continuously heated humidifier water. The steam humidifier, which operates quietly, also works well to remedy breathing problems when a medical inhalant is mixed with humidifier water. The downside of the steam vaporizer is that it is not advisable for use around children and it eats up more energy than most portable humidifiers. Since it boils water to release steam, the unit is always hot and can cause burns.

The impeller, ultrasonic, and evaporative wick are examples of cold air humidifiers. The advantage of these humidifiers is that they have low energy costs. The latest models offer several speed settings to cut down on noise and a light signal to indicate that the humidifier water needs to be changed. Evaporative wick humidifiers are also self-regulating, which means they adapt to humidity levels. The downside of cold-air humidifiers, when not cleaned regularly, is the growth of molds and bacteria and the presence of minerals in the stagnant humidifier water. These unwanted elements are also sent into the air.

There is a wide range of humidifiers available. Whatever model you choose, clean the water reservoir regularly. Breathe clean air as you humidify your home.

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