How Does a Whole House Humidifier Work?
editAs the temperature drops, the air inside our homes can become bone dry, causing all kinds of discomfort and even health issues. This is where a whole house humidifier comes in to save the day. These devices regulate indoor humidity levels, making the atmosphere more comfortable and the home’s air more healthy to breathe.
In this blog, Robinson Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. explains your whole home humidifier options, how they work, and why whole house humidifier installation can benefit your home this winter.
Whole House Humidifier Vs. Portable Humidifier
A whole home humidifier, also called a furnace humidifier, differs significantly from portable humidifiers in terms of design, functionality, and performance. Unlike portable humidifier models that are standalone units that need to be manually filled with water, furnace humidifiers are installed directly into the existing HVAC system of a home or building and have a dedicated water supply line so you don’t have to fill them. Their installation ensures that the entire home is evenly humidified, which is particularly essential during the cold winter months when the air tends to be extremely dry.
Whole House Humidifier Equipment
There are two main types of whole house humidifiers that can be installed alongside your heating system: a bypass unit or a fan-powered unit. Each type of home humidifier has its pros and cons, and the best choice for you depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the size of your home.
Bypass Humidifier
A bypass humidifier is the most common type of whole house humidifier, and it works by utilizing the airflow from the heating system. They are installed on a bypass duct, where they use the HVAC system fan to move air supply through an evaporator panel. This panel acts as a filter, moisturizing the air by saturation to increase humidity levels. The now-humid air supply is then released back into the air ducts and distributed throughout your home.
Fan-Powered Humidifier
Fan-powered humidifiers, as the name suggests, use a dedicated fan to blow air through a moistened filter in order to raise the home’s humidity level. As such, they do not require the installation of a bypass duct.
They are more expensive than bypass humidifiers but are ideal for larger homes as they are more efficient at distributing the moist warm air. Fan-powered humidifiers can also operate without the need to run the furnace because of their dedicated fans.
Benefits of Whole House Humidifier Installation
Regardless of which type of whole house humidifier you choose, the end goal is the same: to enhance the quality of air inside your home and control the humidity level during the dry winter months. Humidifiers can help prevent dry skin, nosebleeds, sore throats, breathing difficulties, and static electricity, making your home more comfortable and healthy overall.
Moreover, whole house humidifiers can also improve the efficiency of your HVAC system, which can result in cost savings on your monthly energy bills. Dry air makes heating and cooling systems work overtime to maintain the desired temperature, leading to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills. By keeping the air moist and the relative humidity level within an appropriate range, a whole house humidifier can make your HVAC system more efficient, thus reducing your energy usage and carbon footprint.
Install a Whole House Humidifier for Better Air Quality This Winter
A whole house furnace humidifier is an easy and effective way to enhance your family’s comfort and health during the dry winter months. By choosing the appropriate type for your needs, you can enjoy an optimal indoor humidity level, energy efficiency, and cost savings in the long run. Whether you opt for a bypass or fan-powered humidifier, you can rest assured knowing that you’re investing in your home’s well-being. Talk to the experts at Robinson Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. today to learn more about how a whole house humidifier can benefit you and your family.