Humidifier Facts
Humidifiers are appliances that are meant to increase the amount of moisture in the atmosphere within the home. These are used to ensure that the air in the home is at a healthy range especially for those who suffer from certain allergies. They can ease breathing in those who suffer from conditions such as asthma. They are also used to prevent the effects of low humidity such as nasal irritation or itchy eyes.
Humidifiers are classed into four categories depending on their components. The most common one is the evaporative. This has a wick, a reservoir and an optional fan. Air is blown through the wick which is intended to increase the area by which water in the reservoir can evaporate. The amount of humidity produced by this method is dependent on that in the atmosphere. You also have the central humidifiers which are fitted into the existing ventilation system. These come in a number of varieties which will depend on the system that they are being used for.
There is also the ultrasonic humidifier that produces the finest mist of vapor (as compared to other humidifiers) by use of ultrasonic vibrations of a diaphragm. An impeller humidifier makes use of a disc and a diffuser which scatters the water into fine droplets that are carried by the air. Steam vaporizers use electricity to heat the water which turns into steam. This is then cooled before being dispersed into the air.
One should take precautions to avoid excess humidity in the air as these lead to the growth of molds and dust mites. Harmful bacteria that may cause the flare-up of respiratory allergic conditions may also occur. To ensure the right amount of humidity use a hygrometer to measure these levels or purchase a humidifier with an inbuilt one. The right amount is between 30%-50%. One should also do regular maintenance on their humidifiers to avoid the growth of allergens.
Use de-mineralized or distilled water to prevent the formation of deposits. These deposits create breeding grounds for bacteria. One should also ensure that they change the filters in the humidifiers regularly which may promote growth of molds. Ensure that the water in these devices is changed on a daily basis. Take time to also clean and dry the reservoirs as well as other parts. Or you may do so after every three days. These should be done using either hydrogen peroxide or some form of disinfectant. Thoroughly rinse the device after and ensure it is dry before the next use. This type of cleaning should be done before you store them and after you take them out of storage. Take special precaution for the central kind ensuring that they are well cleaned by a professional. Finally replace old humidifiers where cleaning may not remove the mineral deposits.
The right kind of humidifier and the right amount of care that you give each will ensure that you get the right kind of benefit for the longest period of time. Finally in choosing the right kind consider if you have children as some may not be ideal in areas with children
Humidifiers are classed into four categories depending on their components. The most common one is the evaporative. This has a wick, a reservoir and an optional fan. Air is blown through the wick which is intended to increase the area by which water in the reservoir can evaporate. The amount of humidity produced by this method is dependent on that in the atmosphere. You also have the central humidifiers which are fitted into the existing ventilation system. These come in a number of varieties which will depend on the system that they are being used for.
There is also the ultrasonic humidifier that produces the finest mist of vapor (as compared to other humidifiers) by use of ultrasonic vibrations of a diaphragm. An impeller humidifier makes use of a disc and a diffuser which scatters the water into fine droplets that are carried by the air. Steam vaporizers use electricity to heat the water which turns into steam. This is then cooled before being dispersed into the air.
One should take precautions to avoid excess humidity in the air as these lead to the growth of molds and dust mites. Harmful bacteria that may cause the flare-up of respiratory allergic conditions may also occur. To ensure the right amount of humidity use a hygrometer to measure these levels or purchase a humidifier with an inbuilt one. The right amount is between 30%-50%. One should also do regular maintenance on their humidifiers to avoid the growth of allergens.
Use de-mineralized or distilled water to prevent the formation of deposits. These deposits create breeding grounds for bacteria. One should also ensure that they change the filters in the humidifiers regularly which may promote growth of molds. Ensure that the water in these devices is changed on a daily basis. Take time to also clean and dry the reservoirs as well as other parts. Or you may do so after every three days. These should be done using either hydrogen peroxide or some form of disinfectant. Thoroughly rinse the device after and ensure it is dry before the next use. This type of cleaning should be done before you store them and after you take them out of storage. Take special precaution for the central kind ensuring that they are well cleaned by a professional. Finally replace old humidifiers where cleaning may not remove the mineral deposits.
The right kind of humidifier and the right amount of care that you give each will ensure that you get the right kind of benefit for the longest period of time. Finally in choosing the right kind consider if you have children as some may not be ideal in areas with children