Types of Humidifiers

Portable vs. Whole Home Furnace Humidifiers

Who knew there were so many humidifiers with different pros and cons? In addition, different brands of same type of humidifier can have extreme disparities between them. With the proper research, you can ensure you get the right humidifier for your family.

Here’s the lowdown on portable versus furnace humidifiers (whole home). While these fundamentals are important, you also need to check each humidifier brand separately.

Portable Humidifiers are generally high maintenance, but the convenience of a portable unit may outweigh the extra work required. Portable humidifiers run about $10 minimum, but the average is about $75 - $125.

If you rent, travel a lot or your house is small, portable humidifier units are likely the best choice. These also work great in RVs.

Furnace Humidifiers can be virtually maintenance-free. These need a central controller to ensure that floor boards, furniture and woodwork do not warp. Furnace heat can also inhibit mold growth and bacteria by eliminating it with high heat. However, there have been complaints concerning some furnace humidifiers; when old vents have pre-existing mold issues, moisture from a furnace humidifier can actually increase the mold problems.

Some dealers advise using biocide in your system; there are also natural alternatives.

Some furnace humidifiers have optional water filters and some only need to be cleaned once a year. You can also find units with an automatic flush system to ensure clean safe humidity levels without airborne toxins. If you own a home, a whole home humidifier is probably the most convenient way of adding moisture to your air.

You can expect to pay about $300 (plus installation) for a whole furnace humidifier system. It is highly recommended that you don’t try and connect them yourself. Pay someone for the peace of mind.