You can endlessly open windows, do frequent wet cleanings, put a jar with water to evaporate, opt for several methods simultaneously, or try others found on the Internet. However, none of these methods can catch up even with the simplest humidifier.
A humidifier has become a real go-to in wellness therapy. Many beauty experts, wellness enthusiasts, and dermatologists use it not only as a helpful tool in the battle against dry air but as the panacea for all ills
To better understand why this device is an absolute must-have in your home, let’s find out what a humidifier is, how it works, and what its biggest benefits are
What Is a Humidifier?
A humidifier is a climatic device used primarily to increase air humidity on the premises by releasing water vapor or steam into the air
Humidifiers may have additional functions, such as heating or cooling the air, cleaning it from unwanted contaminants, enriching the air with beneficial components, maintaining a given level of humidity, etc.
Benefits of Humidifiers
Apart from being beneficial in making your home climate of perfect humidity, this appliance can help you to:
- prevent dry and itchy ski
- combat viruses and bacteria spread in the air
- treat dryness in the nose, mouth, and lips
- ease snoring
- relieve cough and headache
- ease common cold or flu symptoms
- keep your house warmer
- support your hair health.
A humidifier is a real magic wand, especially for those living in a dry and cold climate. It makes it easier for people to breathe and improves overall health.
Types of Humidifiers
There are several types of humidifiers. To choose the best one which will fully satisfy your needs, you need to understand how each type works
Ultrasonic Humidifiers
Ultrasonic humidifiers work by producing a cool mist with ultrasonic vibration. Depending on their design specifications, some appliances have a warm mist option. If you have children, opt for a cool one to avoid the potential risk of burns
The main advantages of ultrasonic humidifiers are that they are silent, versatile, and easy to clean.
Central Humidifiers
Central humidifiers (also known as whole-house humidifiers) are devices built into home heating and AC systems
Though this is the costliest type of all, its biggest advantage is adding humidity throughout the entire house
Mind that the unit has filters that you should replace every three months. The appliance itself needs to be cleaned each week.
Evaporators
Evaporative humidifiers use fans to blow air through a damp wick, filter, or belt, causing the water to evaporate into water vapor. That vapor is then released into the room to raise the humidity level.
Evaporators are designed to humidify one room at a time. They are portable, low maintenance, and affordable. They also adjust humidity levels automatically, so you don’t have to do extra work
Impeller Humidifiers
Impeller humidifiers use high-speed rotating disks (called impellers) to release water droplets into the air as a cool mist
This is one more budget and child-friendly type. The same as evaporators, impeller humidifiers are designed to humidify only one room at a time. Also, you should avoid overusing the device. It may cause difficulties with breathing for people with allergies and asthma.
Steam Vaporizers
The working principle of steam humidifiers is similar to the kettle’s one. A heating element inside the device boils water, which is then evaporated into the room through special holes to humidify the air
Steam humidifiers should be used with caution, as the steam temperature is quite high, so you can easily get burned.
Do You Need a Humidifier in the Summer?
It is commonly believed that dry air is only a problem during the cold season. The heating system and various heaters “eat up” moisture very quickly
However, do not underestimate the summer period, when air conditioners come into play. Did you know that AC dries the room air just as much as heaters? A humidifier is a must if you are the owner of any of the HVAC units.
The need for a humidifier during summer also depends on your region. In the southern regions, the climate is drier and arid. If the air humidity is below 40% in your area, then the use of a humidifier will be required year-round.
What Should You Know About the Use of Humidifiers?
There are a few things you should know about the use of humidifiers to take the best from them and increase their efficiency:
- Keep the device clean. Stick to regular cleaning to avoid mold, fungi, and bacteria issues. Clean your humidifier each week, and don’t forget about the replacement of the filters. Once in three months is a good idea here. Proper maintenance of your humidifier will help it do the job of circulating filtered and hydrated air around your house.
- Use the device year-round. As mentioned above, dry air is not only the cold seasons’ problem. If you are the owner of any HVAC unit, a humidifier is a must. Incorporate a device into your daily life to ensure that you have created a stable environment for your skin and health.
- Maintain a proper humidity level. Ideally, you should set your appliance to keep humidity levels between 30% and 50%. Low humidity causes dry and itchy skin, irritates your nasal passages and throat, and makes your eyes itchy. If the humidity is too high, it can result in the growth of dangerous bacteria, dust mites, and mold, which may lead to respiratory issues and trigger allergy and asthma flare-ups.
The Bottom Line
Humidifiers are considered to be the simplest, safest, and most effective way to increase humidity on the premises. The device allows you to significantly increase the humidity level indoors in a short time, which may positively affect your overall well-being.
When using the appliance, ensure that it keeps the humidity level within the recommended 30% to 50%. To avoid any potential risks, use a hygrometer. It will help you determine how much humidity is in your house
Also, remember to clean the appliance regularly and replace filters at least once in three months. Use it wisely and enjoy humidifying!
