A Guide To Portable Humidifiers For Your Residential HVAC System
The majority of homes require additional humidification, particularly during the winter months, to help keep a balanced humidity level in the air and avoid any dry air problems. One of the best methods of dealing with humidity issues is by using humidifiers; however, it may not be possible to install a whole-house humidifier. In these cases, a portable humidifier is the next best option as this unit adds moisture directly to the area where you need it most!
Is The Potable Humidifier The Best Option For Me?
While the whole-house humidifier is an ideal solution for most people, in certain circumstances the portable humidifier may be the more suitable solution. Portable humidifiers may be more suited to your needs if you have any of the following circumstances:
1. You Rent The Property
If you are renting your home, then an installation of a full-property humidifier may not be possible because of its permanent application. Moreover, permanent installation of the whole-house humidifier means you cannot take it with you when you leave.
2. The Property Does Not Have A Duct System
If the property you live in does not present with a duct system, then you are not able to install a humidifier. In this case, the portable humidifier would be the best option as it adds moisture to the area where a duct system is not available for use.
3. You Require Moisture In Areas Temporarily
One of the greatest benefits of using a portable humidifier is that they can be placed in specific areas around the house, as and when they are required. It is ideal for adding humidity to problem areas, or when someone is ill and requires moisturized air as a treatment.
What Is The Portable Humidifier?
The portable humidifier operates by adding moisture into the atmosphere within a specific area or room. While the whole-house humidifier is attached to the property’s heating system and utilizes the property’s ductwork to distribute moisture, the portable humidifier operates independently of the house’s HVAC system. This means it can be moved about as required to distribute moisture directly to the specific areas when necessary. How portable humidifiers operate is dependent on the type of humidifier you are using, as is discussed below.
What Are The Different Types Of Portable Humidifiers?
There are several types of portable humidifiers available to release moisture into a specific area when required. The primary types include the following:
1. The Cool Mist Humidifier
The cool mist humidifier produces a cool vapor that spreads moisture through the air.
2. The Warm Mist Humidifier
The warm mist humidifier produces a warm vapor from heated water, which is then cooled and released into the allocated area.
3. The Ultrasonic Humidifier
The ultrasonic humidifier is a portable humidifier model utilizing a metallic diaphragm. The high-frequency vibrations form moisture droplets that are sent into the air.
4. The Evaporative Humidifier
An evaporative humidifier is a portable option using a damp wick to create moisture, and then a fan to dispense it into the air.
What About Portable Humidifier Output?
The output of a portable humidifier refers to the amount of moisture it creates, and this is measured using gallons per day. The average portable humidifier outputs approximately one to nine gallons per day; however, the amount is influenced by the model and type of humidifier.
To determine the most suitable output for a portable humidifier in your house, it is recommended that you measure the living area the unit will service. Select a humidifier unit with a suitable output according to the square footage of the area in which it will be used. If the house is a well ventilated one, you will not require high levels of humidity as compared to poorly ventilated homes – keep this in mind when choosing your new portable humidifier.
How Do I Care For My Portable Humidifier?
Unlike the whole-house humidifier, the portable humidifier requires regular refilling and maintenance to continue effective operation. A whole-house model has a dedicated water supply line; however, the portable option uses a water reserve exclusively that needs to be refilled regularly so the unit can continue to produce moisture.
The amount of times you need to refill the water reserve varies according to several factors including the size of the humidifier’s tank, the humidifier brand, how long the humidifier is running, and the level of air dryness. A unit with larger output can run for days without a need for a refill, but smaller units may need to be refilled several times per day. Always review the owner’s manual regarding the recommended refill frequency, and monitor the humidifier to determine when it should be refilled based on your use.
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