Reasons to Not Use Ultrasonic Humidifiers
Most of us have used Ultrasonic Humidifiers in our homes or offices. We do this to help add some moisture to the inside air during the cold months when the Furnaces are constantly running. However, most of us are unaware of the negative issues they may cause.
Ultrasonic Humidifiers can pose several issues, primarily because they may disperse tiny particles, such as minerals from tap water, into the air we breathe. This process can create a “white dust” that may irritate the lungs, particularly for individuals with respiratory issues. We receive several calls each year about Furnaces not working and one of the first questions we ask is; “Is the filter clean?” The filter appears to be clean, however, these small “white dust” particles have covered the filter completely and restricted airflow to a point where the furnace will not operate. This is caused by the stand-alone, portable, Ultrasonic Humidifiers.
Additionally, if not properly maintained, these Humidifiers can spread bacteria and mold that may be present in the water tank. This occurs because Ultrasonic Humidifiers work by vibrating water at a high frequency to produce a fine mist.
Here are some key reasons why Ultrasonic Humidifiers may not be the best choice:
1. **Mineral Dispersal**: Tap water contains minerals that Ultrasonic Humidifiers can aerosolize, resulting in visible white dust that can settle on surfaces and be inhaled.
2. **Bacteria and Mold Growth**: If the humidifier isn’t regularly cleaned, the water tank can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, which can then be released into the air with the mist.
3. **Potential Respiratory Issues**: Inhaling fine particles from an ultrasonic humidifier can irritate the lungs, especially for individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
To mitigate these issues, consider the following recommendations:
**Use Distilled Water**: Always opt for distilled water in your Ultrasonic Humidifier to minimize the mineral content.
**Regular Cleaning**: Clean the humidifier tank frequently to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
Other Humidifier Options to Consider:
We certainly recommend a Whole House Bypass Humidifier or Steam Humidifier that is attached and integrated with your HVAC system. These deliver the exact amount of humidity to your home from a central location and are very low maintenance. With these, you do not need to worry about the “white dust.” Depending on your needs and space, a cool-mist evaporative Humidifier may be a better option for smaller applications, as it does not disperse fine particles as easily. If you are interested in more information on Whole House Humidifiers, please reach out to 319-364-HEAT (4328) and we will get you in touch with the correct correspondent. We also provide free estimates!
