No system is one-size-fits-all
Dry air comes with itchy skin and a sore throat. Not only that, but dry air can also suck moisture out of wood floors and furniture, causing them to crack or split. The best way to prevent overly dry air in your home? Installing a humidifier.
Whole-house humidifiers, also known as furnace humidifiers, are the most efficient for keeping you—and your home—comfortable. Common types of whole-house humidifiers include bypass, fan, steam, and evaporative. While they all do their job well, each type has its advantages and disadvantages. Consult this list before you speak with a pro about installation.
Evaporative humidifiers, sometimes called pad humidifiers, hook up to your home’s direct water line to constantly supply water to a humidifier pad. When warm air blows over the pad, which has water running down it, water evaporates, and moisture is released into the air. Your air system then distributes the humidity throughout your home.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Safe for children and pets | Noisy |
| Easy to clean | May accumulate dust |
| May help treat asthma and allergies | Possible bacterial contamination if not properly maintained |
Best for: Homes with children and pets
Bypass humidifiers take warm air from your home’s HVAC system and pass it through a water tray, where the air picks up moisture before re-entering your home. This type of whole-house furnace humidifier doesn’t require an extra power supply to push the air through the system. Instead, it uses the furnace blow motor and eliminates the need for a high-voltage power supply.
Bypass humidifiers are relatively inexpensive when compared to other whole-house humidifiers, at $125 to $200. Plus, they reuse water, so they won’t cause your water bill to skyrocket. They’re also much quieter than other models (especially fan-powered humidifiers).
On the downside, they aren’t very energy-efficient and require some sort of drainage system, like a floor drain.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable | Not very energy-efficient |
| Requires minimal maintenance | Requires a drainage system |
| Relatively quiet | Takes up more space |
Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners looking to do little maintenance
Similar to bypass furnace humidifiers, fan-powered humidifiers push humidified air through your home using ductwork. But unlike bypass humidifiers, fan-powered ones use their own fan, resulting in increased water evaporation. These systems can produce a gallon or more of humidity per day compared to their bypass counterparts.
Fan-powered whole-house furnace humidifiers don’t require a duct, so they can be placed in more confined areas, like a closet. However, they can be noisy, so if you put one in your bedroom, it’ll probably keep you up all night.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can be placed in small, ductless areas | Noisy |
| Produces more humidity | Higher operation and maintenance costs |
| Relatively quick installation | May break down if not properly maintained |
Best for: Larger homes with many people
Steam humidifiers create humidity by boiling water and releasing steam, which the humidifier pushes through a home’s ventilation system. These systems use electricity, so they can be relatively expensive to operate. Installation is also expensive because these systems are complex and require a local humidifier installer.
Steam humidifiers are one of the most effective whole-house systems and provide a more consistent level of moisture compared to other systems. If you need precise humidity control for health reasons or to protect your prized wood furniture, a steam humidifier is a great option. If you don’t have ductwork, consider a self-contained whole-house humidifier to keep your home’s air moist and healthy. Self-contained humidifiers work independently from furnace systems and use a fan to circulate the humid air.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Effective and consistent humidity control | Not energy-efficient |
| Requires little maintenance | Higher installation and operating costs |
| Low risk of mold | Prone to mineral deposit accumulation |
Best for: Ductless homes, homeowners with health concerns
The best whole-home humidifier depends on the size of your home, where you live, and the needs of your family. When you’re looking for the best whole-house furnace humidifier for your home, consider your budget, your current furnace system, and your personal preferences.
Bypass humidifiers are the least expensive whole-house furnace humidifiers on the market, at about $300 on average. Other types of humidifiers can cost upwards of $1,000 with professional installation.
If you have a large home, opt for a steam whole-house furnace humidifier. These are the most expensive systems to install and operate, but they can create significantly more humidity than other options.
A self-contained whole-house furnace humidifier is the best option for smaller homes, especially those with ductless heating systems. You can install them almost anywhere, including in a closet or under the stairs, to keep them out of the way.
To ensure you get the best humidifier for your home, follow these steps:
Start by evaluating your home's indoor humidity levels using a hygrometer in various rooms. Take note of any significant fluctuations or consistent dryness and consider how these humidity levels affect your family’s health and overall comfort. Pay attention to any allergies or respiratory issues aggravated by dry air. These factors will help determine the appropriate moisture level needed throughout your home.
Explore the various types of humidifiers available. For example, drum systems operate using a rotating drum to disperse moisture, but they might have specific maintenance and noise considerations. On the other hand, flow-through systems maintain humidity levels with a constant water flow and might differ significantly from other types.
Steam humidifiers generate moisture through steam production and can be effective in larger spaces but may have distinct operational features to consider. Do your research on which unit fits your home’s needs.
Next, measure the square footage of your home to determine the size of the area you need to humidify. Calculate the required moisture output per day based on the assessment of humidity needs in different areas of your house. Understanding these figures will help you match the humidifier's capacity to your home's specific requirements.
Consider the compatibility of your HVAC system with the type of humidifier you’re considering, and assess whether modifications or additional equipment are necessary for installation. Evaluate the available space and ensure your home’s ductwork can accommodate the chosen humidifier for seamless integration.
You should also investigate the maintenance needs of different humidifiers. Learn about the frequency of filter changes, cleaning requirements, and water refill needs for each type. Assess the ease of performing maintenance tasks and accessibility for routine upkeep.
Determine the overall cost of the humidifier, including initial purchase expenses and installation costs. Factor in ongoing operational costs, such as electricity or water usage, and any potential expenses for replacement parts or filters.
It never hurts to get the scoop on a whole-house humidifier from homeowners. Read reviews from users to gain insights into real-life experiences with different humidifier models. Look for warranties and certifications that indicate quality and reliability, helping you make an informed decision based on trusted information.
Not sure how to install whole house humidifiers? Schedule consultations with whole-house humidifier installers near you to gather expert insights into the most suitable options for your home. Get quotes from different service providers for both the unit and potential installation costs to compare and make an informed decision.
Establish a detailed maintenance schedule that includes regular filter replacements, system checks, and cleaning routines. A proactive maintenance plan will ensure the operation of your chosen whole-house humidifier over time.
Are whole-house humidifiers worth it? If these benefits sound appealing to you, this might be the perfect new addition for your home.
Whole-house humidifiers maintain optimal moisture levels throughout your home, preventing dry air that can lead to discomfort. As an added bonus, balanced humidity levels reduce issues like dry skin, irritated nasal passages, and static electricity. You'll experience a more comfortable living environment when you install a whole house humidifier, especially during dry seasons or in regions with naturally low humidity.
Optimal humidity levels are conducive to better respiratory health. Dry air can exacerbate allergies, asthma, and other respiratory conditions. A whole-house humidifier can alleviate these issues by preventing the airways from becoming too dry, reducing the likelihood of respiratory discomfort and allowing for easier breathing.
Maintaining balanced humidity levels can enhance your home's energy efficiency. Properly humidified air feels warmer, allowing you to lower your thermostat without sacrificing comfort. This can result in energy savings by reducing the workload on your heating system during colder months.
Balanced humidity can contribute to better sleep quality. Dry air can lead to discomfort during sleep, causing issues like dry throat or congestion, which can disrupt sleep patterns. A whole-house humidifier creates a more conducive sleep environment by keeping the air moist, potentially improving your sleep quality and overall restfulness.
Installing a whole-house humidifier can add value to your property. Potential homebuyers often appreciate features that contribute to comfort and health. Having a system in place that maintains ideal humidity levels throughout the house can be an attractive selling point and may increase the resale value of your home.
A whole-home humidifier can help alleviate allergies by maintaining optimal humidity levels. Dry air aggravates nasal passages and can worsen allergy symptoms. Properly humidified air can soothe irritated sinuses, reducing the impact of allergens like dust mites and pollen, potentially providing relief for allergy sufferers.
To select the right size humidifier, measure the square footage of your home. Match this to the humidifier's capacity output per day. Generally, larger homes need higher output models. Consider the number of rooms, height of ceilings, and floors as well. Choosing a humidifier that can efficiently cover your home's total area without over-humidifying is essential.
Whole-home humidifier maintenance needs vary depending on the type of humidifier. Generally, they require regular upkeep. This includes periodic cleaning of the unit, replacing filters or pads, and monitoring water levels to prevent black mold or bacterial growth. The frequency of maintenance tasks may range from monthly to quarterly, depending on the model and usage.
A whole-home humidifier can impact your energy bill positively. In colder months, humidified air feels warmer, allowing you to lower your thermostat without sacrificing comfort. This can lead to energy savings as your heating system works more efficiently. However, it's crucial to use the humidifier judiciously to avoid excessive humidity, which might strain your cooling system in warmer months.
