How to and how not to use a humidifier in an apartment

The problem of dry air is relevant for most Russian families, especially during the heating season, when the humidity in the apartment does not exceed 20% (the norm is 40–60%). To create a healthy and comfortable microclimate, doctors urge the use of a humidifier. We suggest you learn how to do this correctly, depending on the type of equipment.

General rules

There are different types of humidifiers. To understand how to use a particular device correctly, you need to study the instructions supplied with it. Manufacturers always put it in a box. If the book is somehow not at hand, we advise you to study a number of rules common to all humidifiers.

Security measures:

• Please read the included instructions before use.
• Use the device only in residential areas with dry air and appropriate technical conditions.
• The humidifier must not be used in rooms where flammable gaseous substances are stored.
• Turn on the device only when assembled and in good condition.
• Do not block the openings, especially where the device takes air from.
• The outlet should be directed into free space - in no case towards a wall, furniture or flowers.
• Do not leave small children alone with the humidifier or place it out of reach.
• Do not repair humidifier equipment yourself. Repairs should be carried out by a professional.
• Before assembling, disassembling, filling and draining water, as well as moving the humidifier, the power cable must be disconnected!
• The device must be placed on a level, solid place with unobstructed access.
• Do not touch the cable or buttons with damp or wet hands.

Operating rules:

• Before turning on the humidifier for the first time, keep it at room temperature for 1 hour.
• Use the device if the room temperature is not lower than 5 and not higher than 30 degrees, and the humidity does not exceed 80%.
• Fill the tank with soft water without too much salt. If your tap water is hard, use filtered or distilled water. Otherwise, a yellow limescale deposit will form inside the humidifier, as well as on nearby objects.
• Despite the fact that most devices turn off when there is not enough water in the tank, monitor the amount of liquid and add it in a timely manner.
• Some types of devices have a niche for a fragrance. Correctly soak a cotton swab with oils and additives. Do not pour flavorings directly into the tank or tray container.
• The water tank should be cleaned once every 2 weeks, the humidifying discs - once a month.
• If the device is not going to be used for a long time, the water tank should be completely emptied and the humidifier should be dried. To maintain the tightness of the seal, it is recommended to remove the plug from the water tank. Store the device in its original packaging in a cool, dry place.

Types of humidifiers

Adjusting the humidity in an apartment can be done in different ways, from hanging wet towels on the radiator to using special equipment.

Humidifiers are divided into 4 types and differ in their operating principle:

1. Traditional. Humidifies the air using a rapidly rotating disc.Moisture passes through it and fog is formed, which is carried throughout the room by a fan built into the device. Air irrigation occurs naturally. The steam coming out is cold.
2. Ultrasonic. The transformation of water into a cloud of steam occurs with the help of sound vibrations. The role of the evaporator is played by a special membrane capable of high-frequency vibration. The (cold) steam is carried throughout the room by the same fan.
3. Steam. A heating element is used to humidify the room. First, the water is brought to a boil, and then the hot steam is distributed around using a fan.
4. Air washing. The only device that takes air from the room. He passes it through adsorbent discs and water, and then, once cleaned and moistened, sprays it outside.

Traditional humidifiers

Traditional humidifier models include:

• Stadler Form Oskar O-021,
• Beurer LW 220,
• Ballu EHB-010.

Instructions for use:

1. Place the filter in the water tray. Attach the bottom and install the housing.
2. Fill the water tank. Close the lid.
3. Place the container on the bottom.
4. Turn on the humidifier and select a mode by turning the switch.
5. Indicators - green and red - notify about the operating mode.

If you place the device near a heat source or places of active air circulation (windows, doors), air humidification will occur more intensely.

Ultrasonic humidifiers

Group representatives:

• Maxcan MH-602BRC,
• Electrolux EHU-3715D,
• Electrolux EHU-3815D,
• Ballu UHB-280,
• Wetair MH-204W,
• Polaris PUH 6805Di.

Instructions for use:

1. A day before turning on the device, place the demineralization cartridge in a reservoir of water.
2. Fill the tank with water, close the lid, and insert it into the housing.
3. Place the part with the sprayer on top.
4. Turn on your device. A green indicator will notify you that work has started.
5. Select a mode and adjust the desired humidity level. As soon as the humidity level in the room reaches the specified level, the humidifier will turn off.

Steam humidifiers

Steam humidifiers represent:

• Boneco S 250,
• Boneco S450.

Using such devices is very simple:

1. Fill the tank with water, focusing on the level indicator. Close tightly.
2. Press the power button and select the operating mode. The light on the device will turn green.

Until the water evaporates, the humidifier will work. It will then turn off automatically and the light will turn red.

Steam models easily over-humidify the air. Therefore, it is advisable to use a hygrometer for control.

Air washers

Popular representatives:

• Boneco 1355A,
• Neoclima MP-20
• Boneco 2055D,
• Electrolux EHAW-7515D.

Instructions for use:

1. Place the device on a hard, level surface.
2. Plug the cord into the outlet and press the power button (it also turns off the sink).
3. Select a high or low humidity level (High or Low) and adjust the desired humidity percentage if necessary. One button press – 5%.

Do not forget to rinse the adsorbent discs monthly under running water.

Advice from an experienced

Studying the instructions is one thing, but experiencing the operation of a humidifier in real life is something completely different. People who have been using moisturizing technology for years have shared some secrets:

• Breathing humidified fresh air is a pleasure. But you should not place the device at the head of the bed. Moisture gets on the bed, and sleeping on wet beds is a direct path to hypothermia.
• A steam humidifier can be used not only to humidify the air, but also to treat colds. To do this, essential oils are placed in a special compartment, which facilitate the removal of phlegm.
• During illness, it is recommended to increase air humidity to 70%. However, in a children's room at night it is better not to exceed the 60% threshold. Otherwise, increased sputum production will interfere with restful sleep.

Air humidifiers are undoubtedly a useful technology. They help regulate the level of humidity in the apartment, thereby helping in the prevention of many diseases. Proper use of the device guarantees its long service life and best performance results!