A humidifier is a simple solution to improving the moisture level in your home, making it more comfortable for you and your family during dry winter months.
TYPE
SPACE
CAPACITY
FEATURES
Warm mist humidifiers
Warm mist humidifiers use an internal heating element, which boils water prior to releasing it, adding warmth to a room. The boiling process kills waterborne bacteria and mould. These humidifiers don’t require filters and work well with medicated liquids for helping to treat coughs and sinus problems.
Ultrasonic humidifiers use high-frequency sound vibrations to produce an extra fine water mist and are typically used for smaller areas. These humidifiers are available in warm or cool mist, or you can choose a unit that gives you both options. If you do choose one that uses a filter, make sure it can come apart easily for maintenance.
Evaporative humidifiers have a wick that absorbs the water and a fan that blows that water out into the air. As this process occurs, air-borne dust particles are trapped in the water, actually cleaning the air while adding moisture.
If you’re looking for an easy to use evaporative humidifier, consider a furnace-mount model.
Vaporizers work by heating water until it turns into hot steam and are often used to help fight off cold or flu symptoms. You can add medicated liquids to some models. These units work best in small rooms and do not require a filter.
If you only need to humidify one room, look for models that can handle about 500 square feet or less, depending on your needs.
Multi-room
For multi-room use, try a unit that can handle 500 to 1,500 square feet.
Whole home
For a whole home model, you can find units that will humidify spaces up to 2400 square feet or more.
Portable
If you love to travel and want to bring a humidifier with you when you’re on the go, look for small, portable models. These allow you to humidify a small space like a bedroom or office and some can be powered by USB.
Tank capacity
The tank capacity on a humidifier will determine how often you need to refill it, so look for a unit with a large water tank if you don’t want to refill it frequently.
Adjustable humidistat
If you want to set a precise level of humidity, look for models with an adjustable humidistat.
Removable water tank
Make sure you choose a humidifier with the right fill method for you. In smaller models, a removable tank may be a convenient option.
Water refill indicator
Get convenient notifications when it’s time to refill the water.
Auto features
An auto-humidistat feature will turn the fan on and off as necessary to maintain the desired humidity. Auto Shutoff will turn the unit off when it runs out of water, saving you energy and giving you peace of mind.
Casters
For ease of use with larger units, look for models that have casters, so you can move them as needed.
