The Best Furnace Humidifier We've Tested: Top Reviews by Experts

A furnace humidifier is an device that attaches to a home's HVAC system to increase the humidity levels within the home. It works by adding moisture to the air as it passes through the furnace, which can help to alleviate dry skin, nosebleeds, and other symptoms caused by dry air. Furnace humidifiers come in several different types, including drum, flow-through, and bypass, and can be powered by electricity or water. They can be integrated into a home's existing HVAC system or added as an aftermarket accessory. It is important to maintain the unit properly to avoid mold, bacteria and other issues.

When choosing a furnace humidifier, there are several factors to consider:

Type:

There are three main types of furnace humidifiers: drum, flow-through, and bypass. Drum humidifiers are the most affordable and easiest to maintain, but they can be less efficient. Flow-through humidifiers are more efficient, but they require more maintenance. Bypass humidifiers are the most efficient, but they can be the most expensive.

Capacity:

Make sure to choose a humidifier with the appropriate capacity for the size of your home. A larger humidifier will be able to handle a larger space, while a smaller humidifier may not be able to keep up with a larger space.

Features:

Some humidifiers come with built-in humidistats, which allow you to control the humidity level in your home. Others may have automatic shut-off features or filter change indicators. Consider which features are important to you and look for a humidifier that has them.

Cost:

Furnace humidifiers range in price from around $100 to $800. Be sure to choose a humidifier that fits within your budget, but also keep in mind that a more expensive humidifier may be more efficient and require less maintenance in the long run.

Installation:

Some humidifiers can be installed by a homeowner, while others require professional installation. Consider the difficulty of installation and whether you feel comfortable installing the humidifier yourself or if you need to hire a professional.

Maintenance:

All humidifiers require regular cleaning and maintenance. Make sure you choose a humidifier that is easy to maintain and that you are comfortable with the cleaning and maintenance requirements.

How much does it cost to put a humidifier on your furnace?

The cost to install a humidifier on a furnace can vary depending on several factors such as the type of humidifier, the size of your home, the cost of labor in your area, and whether or not any additional equipment or materials are needed.

On average, the cost of a furnace humidifier can range from around $100 for a basic, portable unit to $800 or more for a high-end, whole-house humidifier. Installation costs can range from $200 to $1000, depending on the complexity of the installation and the type of humidifier.

It is important to get a few quotes from HVAC professionals to get a better idea of the specific cost for your home. It is also worth considering the long-term benefits of having a humidifier, such as improved comfort, better health and reduced static electricity, which could justify the cost.

How long do furnace humidifiers last?

The lifespan of a furnace humidifier can vary depending on the type of humidifier, the quality of the unit, and how well it is maintained. Generally speaking, a furnace humidifier can last anywhere from 5 to 20 years.

Drum-type humidifiers which have a water reservoir have a shorter lifespan and need regular cleaning and maintenance, typically lasting around 5 years.

Flow-through and bypass humidifiers which use a water panel filter, have a longer lifespan, around 10-20 years, because they don't have a reservoir of water and the filter is replaceable.

Proper maintenance such as regular cleaning, replacing filter can help extend the life of a furnace humidifier. For that reason, it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance, and to replace filters as needed.

It is also important to note that if you start to notice a decrease in performance or increased maintenance needs, it may be time to consider replacing your humidifier.

Does a furnace humidifier increase water bill?

A furnace humidifier can increase your water bill, but the amount will depend on the type of humidifier you have and how often it is used.

Drum-type humidifiers, which have a water reservoir, will use more water as they need to be refilled regularly. Flow-through and bypass humidifiers, which use a water panel filter, use less water as the water evaporates through the filter.

Another factor that affects the water consumption is the humidity level you set on your humidistat. The higher the humidity level, the more water the humidifier will use. Setting the humidity level too high can also cause mold or other issues.

Most of the humidifiers have an automatic shut-off feature that will turn the unit off when the desired humidity level is reached, thus saving water and energy.

It is also important to note that having a humidifier can help to reduce the amount of water you use for other activities, such as taking shorter showers or using less lotion.

 

Aprilaire 500 whole house furnace humidifier

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