A furnace humidifier is a device that is installed within the heating system of a home, typically in the ductwork or near the furnace. Its primary function is to add moisture to the air that is circulated throughout the house when the heating system is running. The goal of a furnace humidifier is to increase the humidity levels in the indoor air, which can be particularly beneficial during the dry winter months when heating systems tend to dry out the air in your home. In regions with cold winters, indoor humidity levels can drop below the recommended range of 30-50%. Low humidity can cause discomfort, dry skin, respiratory issues, and can also affect wooden furniture, musical instruments, and other items in your home.
Winter Air Tends To Be Dry Due to Several Factors
Cold air holds less moisture
Cold air can hold less moisture than warm air. When cold air is heated indoors, its relative humidity drops significantly, resulting in dry indoor air.
Heating systems
Heating systems, especially those that use forced air like furnaces, can further dry out the indoor air by removing moisture as they heat the air.
Low outdoor humidity
In many regions, winter coincides with lower outdoor humidity, contributing to drier air when it is brought indoors.
How Does a Furnace Humidifier Work?
Whole-home humidifiers connect with your forced-air furnace to add moisture to the warm air that the furnace pushes throughout your home. There are three main types of humidifiers: bypass, steam, and flow-through. Humidifiers will help increase your indoor air quality and overall comfort.
If a furnace humidifier is not properly maintained, it can potentially become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. The water pad or other components should be cleaned and replaced regularly to prevent mold growth and ensure the humidifier operates safely and effectively.
Types of Furnace Humidifiers
Bypass humidifiers
Bypass humidifiers draw from a water panel and do not use a motor, meaning that they're only active when the furnace is running. Instead, these humidifiers rely on air from the furnace's blower to pick up moisture as it passes over the water panel before moving through the ductwork. Bypass humidifiers have a lower chance of breaking down since there are fewer components, and typically have lower energy usage too. Also, there's a lower risk of mold forming since moisture is only pushed through the ducts when warm air is moving.
One disadvantage is that it may not humidify your air as effectively as other furnace humidifiers. After the air picks up moisture from the panel, it's rerouted back to the furnace before being sent around the home. During this process, some moisture is lost making it less effective.
Steam humidifiers
Steam humidifiers work by boiling water to create steam that's then distributed throughout the home along with the air from the furnace. These furnace humidifiers function based on built-in humidistats that measure the humidity of the air and only allow the system to work when the humidity drops below a certain level. This significantly lessens the risk of mold and condensation as the system won't be able to over-humidify. Steam humidifiers are also the most effective at producing moisture and are easier to maintain. One downside, however, is that they cost more money to buy and operate.
Flow-through units
Like bypass humidifiers, flow-through units draw from a water supply, but in the form of a constant trickle of water. The unit switches on when your home's humidity level falls below the set level. As air passes through the furnace's air supply, the water naturally evaporates into the air that's leaving the furnace. The main difference is that flow-through units have their own fans, meaning they can moisten and distribute air even when the furnace blower isn't operating. Another benefit is that these units are generally low maintenance and have almost no risk of mold.
Pros and Cons of Furnace Humidifiers:
Pros
Improved Comfort
Furnace humidifiers can help maintain a comfortable indoor environment by preventing the air from becoming too dry. Dry air can lead to issues like dry skin, irritated throat, and static electricity, which can be uncomfortable.
Health Benefits
Proper humidity levels can help reduce the risk of respiratory problems and allergies. Dry air can exacerbate conditions like asthma and make it easier for viruses to spread, so maintaining an optimal humidity level is important for your health.
- Improved skin: Dry, itchy skin is a common occurrence for most of us, especially during the winter months. A whole-home humidifier keeps skin moisturized to avoid irritation. It also helps prevent bloody noses, cracked lips, and other issues that come along with dry air.
- Fewer illnesses: Cold- and flu-causing viruses thrive in dry conditions. A whole-home humidifier adds moisture to the air to combat these germs and also reduces the likelihood of your family getting sick.
- Better sleep: Chronic snorers report they snore less after a humidifier is installed. The added humidity soothes airways and reduces the likelihood of this noisy side effect.
Energy Efficiency
Humidified air feels warmer, so you may be able to lower your thermostat during the winter, potentially saving on heating costs.
Protects Furnishings
Adequate humidity can prevent wooden furniture, flooring, and musical instruments from drying out and cracking.
Cons
Initial Cost
The initial investment in a furnace humidifier can be relatively high compared to standalone humidifiers.
Limited Control
Furnace humidifiers are typically controlled by a built-in thermostat or humidistat, which may not offer as much control as standalone humidifiers.
Potential for Over-humidification
If not properly maintained or controlled, furnace humidifiers can lead to over-humidification, which can cause its own set of problems, including mold growth.
Aprilaire Furnace Humidifier
Aprilaire is the top choice when it comes to installing a furnace humidifier because of its exceptional quality and durability. With over 70 years in the industry, Aprilaire has built a reputation for manufacturing reliable and efficient products. Their humidifiers are specifically designed to seamlessly integrate with your furnace, making installation and maintenance a breeze. Moreover, Aprilaire offers a wide range of humidifiers to cater to your unique needs and budget, ensuring you find the perfect option for your home.
Conclusion
In conclusion, furnace humidifiers can be effective at maintaining comfortable indoor humidity levels during the winter months and offer several benefits.
Whole-home humidifiers automatically regulate your indoor humidity level to the ideal 35 to 50 percent. And it’s not just in one room, like a portable unit. Furnace humidifiers deliver moist air through your ductwork to every room in your home.
If you live in the Delaware Valley/Greater Philadelphia area and would like to find comfort within your home, visit our website or give us a call at 215 - 245 - 3200 to learn more.
