5 Central Humidifier Questions to Ask a Pro

We’ve all felt the stinging eyes and burning noses of an ultra-dry winter, especially if you live in an arid climate or deal with seasonal weather. This is where a whole-house humidifier (or central humidifier) can help. Before you start the project, your humidifier installer will need to understand the project. These whole-house humidifier questions can get you on the same page.

1. Where would you like to install a central humidifier? 

A local humidifier installer should understand your climate, but they’ll still need to know how your home is set up. Be ready to answer these questions about your home:

• Size of the space: The building volume (or cubic feet of the space) gives a pro an idea of how much space you need to humidify.

• Age of the home: Older homes tend to be draftier, which means your humidifier may not be as efficient as it is in a newer home. 

• Humidity levels: Determining the existing humidity levels in a home can help the expert recommend a product that strikes the right balance, as too much humidity can lead to mold growth. 

2. What kind of furnace do you have?

Your installer will need to understand your HVAC system so they can install a compatible whole-house humidifier. For example, most whole-house humidifiers require existing ductwork. If you have a ductless heating system, you may need to use a self-contained humidifier that works separately from your furnace. 

Gas furnaces tend to dry the air in your home more than other types of heating systems, but you can still install a whole-house humidifier if you use a heat pump. Your contractor just needs to know in advance.

3. What kind of humidifier do you want?

Before you can start the installation, your contractor will need to purchase the humidifier. There are four types of whole-house humidifiers to choose from: evaporative, bypass, steam, and fan-powered. Each works a little differently and has distinct installation requirements, efficiency levels, and maintenance procedures. Discuss the possible impact of each humidifier option on your utility bills, the level of noise, and additional installation requirements such as drainage or a high-voltage power supply.

4. Do you have hard or soft water?

Hard water can build up inside of a central humidifier and degrade the system. In that case, you may want to avoid humidifiers with a sponge or foam pad. Consider an option that uses a plastic disc instead. Some manufacturers make models specifically designed to reduce mineral deposits.

You should also let your contractor know if you’ve installed a water softener. Most water softeners replace calcium and magnesium with sodium. The sodium can build up in the system, corroding the humidifier’s components. 

5. When do you need this work done?

Don’t start your project without understanding the timeline. Your HVAC installer will want to know when you need the work finished so they can fit you into their schedule. Ask specific details such as when they plan to start (including the date and time of arrival) and what happens if you hit a snag.