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A big proponent of humidity during the chilly Pacific Northwest winter, Theresa has a keen understanding of how humidifiers work and why they're important.įor this story, Theresa researched the different types, features, and installation requirements of whole-home humidifiers. Theresa Holland is a commerce writer with experience covering indoor air quality, home improvement, and lifestyle. For whole-house humidifiers that are connected to your furnace and water supply, these units are installed and cannot be moved.
#THE WIRECUTTER HUMIDIFIER PORTABLE#
If you have a portable unit, try placing it in different locations until you find the right spot to add moisture to your entire living area. Place your whole-house humidifier centrally in your home. Consoles, pedestals, and other free-standing units are usually easier to set up, though they vary in terms of maintenance requirements and how often you have to fill the water tank. Some whole-home humidifiers, such as furnace-mounted models, need to be professionally installed. You'll also want to consider the set up requirements. Also, if your humidifier will be on display in a busy area of your home, you may want to pick a design-forward unit that doesn't clash with your decor. For example, certain units double as diffusers for essential oils. While many humidifiers simply balance the humidity in your house, others come with extra features. Evaporative technology, on the other hand, moisturizes the air without releasing any visible vapor. Ultrasonic humidifiers turn water into mist using high-frequency vibration. You'll also see a range of ultrasonic and evaporative options. If you get a free-standing model, figure out where you plan to put it and check the dimensions to make sure it will fit in your space.
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Then there are free-standing options, including console-style and pedestal humidifiers. Furnace-mounted models connect to your existing HVAC system and offer even distribution throughout your home. There are a few different types of whole-home humidifiers.
#THE WIRECUTTER HUMIDIFIER PROFESSIONAL#
You may also want to consult with an HVAC professional to confirm it will work in your space.
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If you have a very large house (5,000 square feet or larger), look for a product that explicitly states it can cover homes of that size. Most whole-house models cover between 1,000 and 4,000 square feet, though some have larger or smaller capacities. When shopping around for a humidifier, one of the most important things to consider is the size of your home. The Spruce / Justin Park What to Look for in a Whole-House Humidifier Home size