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!

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The Whole House Humidifier brings an entire new level of comfort to your home. It is installed directly to your HVAC system and can reduce allergy and asthma symptoms, protect your skin, minimize risk of infection, protect your woodwork/ floors and save you money. No more dry, itchy throat and eyes.

The GeneralAire 1042 Whole House Humidifier in a nutshell:

• With a Whole House Humidifier, you will benefit from proper humidification throughout your entire home.
• Maintenance is only once per year! The easy change out Humidifier Pads make it a breeze to replace (for sale at Colony).
• It’s so quiet you’ll forget it’s there!

Dry air causes gaps in window & door frames, letting cold outdoor air in; causing you to turn up the heat and increasing your heating bills! Controlled humidity from a GeneralAire® Humidifier allows you the luxury of dialing the thermostat back & reducing annual heating bills. For example, 68° at 40% relative humidity feels just as warm as 74° at 20% humidity. Setting your thermostat back by as little as three degrees can reduce annual heating bills by as much as 5%.

What is the ideal Humidity range?

Research shows that 40-60% relative humidity is ideal.

Can I clean my Vapor Pad® instead of replacing it?

A coating is applied to the Vapor Pad® that helps it absorb water and control water flow. If you subject the Vapor Pad® to cleaning, you usually remove much of the coating and the pad becomes ineffective. This reduces the output of the humidifier and increases water consumption.

Give us a call at 364-4328 and have our professional staff install a new humidifier in your home! Feel the difference.

See the video below for instructions on how to replace the pad.

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Just a friendly reminder to check and make sure your Filters and Humidifier Pads are clean.

It’s important to check your air filters regularly and here’s why:

• Dirty filters restrict air flow in your HVAC system making it work harder and potentially causing future issues. Also, when your furnace is working harder, the energy costs rise. Keep costs down by replacing your filter regularly.
• A new filter will push fresher, cleaner air through your home helping with asthma and allergies.

In addition to changing your filter and Humidifier Pad, it is important to schedule your annual Clean and Check on your furnace. “Call the Guys you can Trust,” at Colony Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning to check your electrical connections, make sure the unit is carbon monoxide free, clean the unit of potential fire hazards, and examine your thermostat to make sure everything is working correctly for the winter ahead.

Do you have a Whole House Humidifier? What are the benefits?

• With a Whole House Humidifier, you will benefit from proper humidification throughout your entire home.
• Maintenance is only one time per year! The easy change out Humidifier Pads make it a breeze to replace.
• It’s so quiet you’ll forget it’s there!

The Humidifier is installed directly to your HVAC system and can reduce allergy and asthma symptoms, protect your skin, minimize risk of infection, protect your woodwork/ floors and save you money. We recommend setting the humidity level to 35% during the winter months. On very cold days, try turning the level to 10% to help combat ice build up on the windows of your home. You’ll notice the difference. In conclusion, give us a call at 364-HEAT (4328) and receive a free estimate on a new Whole House Humidifier.

Call us today for more information! 364-HEAT (4328).

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