How Much Does Humidifier Repair Cost? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $129 - $405
The average humidifier repair cost is $250, or between $129 and $405 depending on the type of humidifier and the nature of the issue.
The average humidifier repair cost is $250, with costs ranging from $129 to $405. It can be frustrating when your humidifier is on the fritz, but the good news is that many issues are fixable with the help of a skilled HVAC technician. This guide will help you plan your budget for humidifier repair.
- Average
- $250
- Low end
- $65
- high end
- $800
Humidifier Repair Cost Factors
Here are the main factors that will play into your humidifier repair costs.
Type of Humidifier
The type of humidifier can have a major impact on your humidifier repair cost. For example, if you have a simple drum/bypass humidifier, repairs will typically be less costly than what you’d pay for a high-end steam-powered humidifier. Consider these pricing variables for each type when planning out your budget.
Drum (Bypass) Humidifier
Drum models are the most affordable type of humidifier, so replacement parts are on the lower end cost-wise. However, as they have more parts, such as an evaporative pad, they tend to need repairs more often than other humidifier types. They also require filter replacements around once per month, which cost between $10 and $20.
Flow-Through Humidifier
Flow-through humidifiers are mid-range in terms of pricing, so replacement parts are priced accordingly. These humidifiers send moisture directly through hot air from the furnace, so they are generally low maintenance once installed. They also require filters to be changed periodically, though not as often as drum humidifiers.
Steam-Powered Humidifiers
Steam-powered humidifiers are the priciest type of humidifier, so repairs (though not often needed) can be more expensive. These heat water in a reservoir and release the moisture through the furnace. Unlike other types of humidifiers that run constantly, they only work as needed, so they generally last the longest and need the least amount of repairs.
Replacement Parts
More often than not, issues with whole-home humidifiers will come down to parts that need to be replaced. The least expensive parts are typically the evaporative pad or the water and float valve, while the humidistat and humidifier tank can get quite costly depending on the model.
| Replacement Part | Average Cost (Part Only) |
|---|---|
| Solenoid valve | $20–$80 |
| Water and float valve | $15–$30 |
| Humidifier tank | $20–$300 |
| Fan motor | $50–$60 |
| Humidistat | $30–$100 |
| Evaporative pad | $6–$25 |
Type of Issue
Another key factor in your humidifier repair cost is the type of issue the humidifier is facing. Here’s a breakdown of the most common malfunctions and the average cost to correct them.
Solenoid Valve
Solenoid valves typically cost around $45, with valves for higher-end types ranging from $60 to $80 and lower-end ones priced between $20 to $40. This part often becomes stuck in a closed position and malfunctions, which means it’s time for a replacement. Otherwise, the system will stop working altogether.
Water and Float Valve
The valve and float assemblies for these units typically cost between $15 and $30. If the float valve won’t function even after cleaning, has a faulty connector, or the seal isn’t secure, it will need to be replaced.
Humidifier Tank
The cost of a replacement tank ranges anywhere from $20 to $300. Smaller units have more affordable tanks compared to larger ones. For instance, a portable style may have a $20 tank, while high-capacity steam options could require a $300 tank.
Fan Motor
On average, fan motors cost around $55 to replace. If the fan on a humidifier isn't functioning, the culprit is likely the motor or the humidistat. However, the issue could also be related to power supply, whether from a tripped breaker or faulty wiring. Troubleshooting a tripped breaker is possible to DIY by referring to the user manual, but it's crucial to avoid attempting to rewire the system without extensive electrical knowledge.
Humidistat
The cost of humidistats ranges from $30 to $100. If your humidistat isn't functioning properly, replacing it may not be necessary. It could be having issues with receiving power from its power source or being set too low. If the humidistat is determined to be the issue, it's best to seek the assistance of a professional with electrical expertise.
Evaporative Pad
Evaporative pads typically range in price from $6 to $25, depending on the humidifier model. In evaporative humidifier styles, the evaporative pad (also known as the water panel or filter) plays a crucial role. It's essential to replace it at least once per year, as it tends to accumulate minerals and build up. A clogged pad can reduce the system's efficiency and potentially prevent the production of humidity altogether.
Filters
Aside from the evaporative filter, filters within the solenoid valve—also known as in-line strainer screens—typically cost around $4 to replace. The filter in the solenoid valve is designed to capture large particles before they reach the evaporative pad. If water isn't flowing from the solenoid valve into the humidifier, it's likely that this filter is clogged with debris. You can replace this filter in some cases, but there may be instances where the entire solenoid valve needs to be replaced.
Labor
Most humidifier technicians charge about $50 to $70 per hour. Some technicians will charge an additional service fee, which is usually around $100 to $200.
Humidifier Repair Ongoing Expenses
Along with the upfront expense of humidifier repair, here are a few additional expenses to plan for down the line.
Filter Replacement
Replacement filters usually cost between $10 to $20, but costs can vary based on what you need. Be sure to stay on top of filter replacement, as this will optimize the performance of your humidifier and help prevent clogs, buildup, and other issues.
Maintenance
Routine maintenance visits for a humidifier are typically between $75 to $200 per visit. Getting regular maintenance from an HVAC technician will help keep your humidifier functioning at its best, plus it will help prolong its lifespan. To save on costs, have your humidifier inspected during your annual HVAC maintenance visit.
Humidifier Replacement
The cost to replace a whole-home humidifier is between $400 and $800 on average, but high-end and steam-powered models can cost $1,000 or more. Even the most well-maintained humidifiers will eventually break down and need to be replaced, so it’s a good idea to prepare.
DIY Humidifier Repair vs. Hiring a Pro
Minor humidifier issues, such as leaks and clogs, may be fixable with some DIY skills and the user’s manual to guide you. However, it's best to call an HVAC professional when it comes to the electrical and plumbing components, as these can be hazardous to work on without the proper skills and know-how. Likewise, if you’re not sure what’s wrong with the humidifier, it’s best to leave it up to a pro rather than risking damage to the unit. A local humidifier repair technician can diagnose the issue and correct it without risking your safety, the humidifier, or your HVAC system.
Cost of Common Humidifier Repair Add-Ons
If you’re hiring a pro for this project, it’s a good idea to think of other HVAC maintenance costs or repairs you might need. This will save you on trip fees and potentially allow you to bundle services for a discount. Here are a few add-on services to consider:
AC tuneup cost: $60–$200
Heat pump maintenance cost: $80–$150
Split system maintenance cost: $200–$600
Air duct cleaning cost: $270–$500
Furnace cleaning cost: $60–$400
Air duct sealing cost: $500–$4,000
Tips to Reduce Costs for Humidifier Repair
Here are some quick tips to save on your humidifier repair cost:
Check the manufacturer’s warranty to see if you’re eligible to have your humidifier repair cost covered.
Get quotes from at least three different HVAC repair technicians to find the best deal.
Schedule regular maintenance for your humidifier to keep it in good working condition.
Clean or replace the filters in your humidifier according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
To prolong your humidifier’s lifespan, monitor humidity levels and only use the humidifier as needed to maintain your home’s ideal humidity level.
If you notice any unusual noises, leaks, or performance issues with your humidifier, address them promptly to prevent small problems from escalating into costly repairs.
How Angi Gets Its Cost Data
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We survey real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to costquotes@angi.com. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re facing significant humidifier repair costs or it’s time to replace your humidifier altogether, it’s understandable to question whether the expense is worth it. Still, there are many benefits of whole-house humidifiers that you might miss, including improved indoor comfort, improved breathing and sleep, better hair and skin, and even increased home value. Either way, the answer is subjective, so it’s helpful to evaluate your home’s humidity without the unit running and give it a few weeks to see if you notice a difference.
For certain repairs, a plumber may be able to help fix a humidifier, but HVAC technicians are typically the go-to professionals. The most common humidifier repairs that plumbers handle are humidifier water shutoffs, solenoid valve maintenance, and evaporator pad replacement.
The life expectancy of a humidifier is around ten years on average, but this can vary depending on factors such as usage, maintenance, and the quality of the unit. To help your humidifier last as long as possible, it's important to regularly follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance.