What are humidifiers: main types, their features + tips for customers on choosing

What humidifiers are best for a child's room

Silence is the first thing parents think about in their children's room.

That is why, when planning a purchase, it is important to choose the quietest of all possible options. If you are dissatisfied with the noise level, do not rush to despair and take the gadget to the store

Often, babies fall asleep with pleasure under the so-called "white noise" - a continuous hiss or measured buzz, which is associated in babies with uterine sounds.Generally speaking about maintaining the microclimate in the nursery, one cannot fail to notice that manufacturers here follow an unspoken rule - to pay more attention to the design and bright shell of the gadget, and not to its technical content. And rightly so, because the simplest device in the form of a dog or a fish is enough for a child. According to the reviews of experienced parents, complex, technically more advanced, on the contrary, should be avoided - they can seriously injure the baby.

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Types of Humidifiers

How to choose the right humidifier? In fact, household humidifiers are divided into three groups: mechanical, steam and ultrasonic. For small rooms, a mini humidifier is provided (compact models). To decide which is better, consider each type in more detail.

Traditional or mechanical

These devices assume natural humidification of the room. They are arranged quite simply. A small amount of water is poured into a special case - a tank, which then falls on special replaceable filter cartridges. With the help of a fan, the air is directed through the wet filter and exits already humidified.

Depending on the manufacturer, there are advanced models with an antibacterial filter inside the design and built-in ionizers to saturate the air with negatively charged oxygen ions.

Advantages:

1. Economical energy consumption.
2. Quiet work. Suitable for children's bedrooms.
3. There is no overmoistening.
4. You can always track the water level in the tank.
5. The steam is moderately hot, the device is safe for the child.

Flaws:

1. The need for regular filter changes.
2. Humidity values ​​rarely exceed 60%.Not recommended for greenhouses and rooms with a large number of indoor plants.

Steam

In search of an answer to the question of how to choose a humidifier for an apartment, we advise you to take a closer look at this type of device. The principle of their operation is reminiscent of a boiler or an ordinary electric kettle: the water in the container is heated using a built-in heating element, or electrodes, and sterile steam intensively comes out. Hot evaporation occurs, respectively, the humidity in the room immediately rises.

Advantages:

1. The most important thing is ease of use and quick humidification of the room.
2. Security compliance. As in the case of traditional ones, the steam from these devices is hot, but not scalding, it is unrealistic to burn them.
3. There is no need to change filters.
4. Hygienic, antibacterial effect, destruction of microbes.
5. On furniture and hard surfaces after work there is no unpleasant white coating.

Flaws:

1. It can easily overmoisten the atmosphere in the house, bringing it closer to the tropical: this also causes discomfort and is harmful to health.
2. Scale may form on the heating element.
3. Large amount of water in the tank.
4. High level of power consumption.

We looked for reviews on this type of device:

“This device humidifies the room with pure steam and lasts for about 6 hours of continuous operation. After using the humidifier, breathing is much easier, the result met all our expectations (about the Chicco Humi Vap steam model).”

Ekaterina, 31 years old.

Ultrasonic

Another option where you can stop the choice of humidifier. Now it is the most common and popular type of climate technology.If we briefly describe the principle of operation, it looks like this: a special inner membrane (piezoceramic) under the influence of alternating current creates ultrasonic vibration. Water, previously poured into the tank, under the influence of ultrasonic vibrations, breaks into fine particles, turning into cold vapor, or water mist. Some models have a warm steam option. In addition, such devices are often equipped with important functions: separation of steam flows in different directions, sterilization and disinfection of steam, regulation of the level of humidification, built-in hygrometer.

Advantages:

1. Low noise level.
2. High performance.
3. Built-in hygrometer and constant monitoring of the humidity level.
4. Multifunctionality.
5. An interesting option: a compact or portable ultrasonic humidifier that does not take up much space, but performs its main functions.

Flaws:

1. It is recommended to use only purified (bottled) water.
2. Small area of ​​action.
3. Careful care of the device, the need to soften the water and clean it from impurities.

Let's take a look at customer reviews:

“Great humidifier. I noticed that I began to breathe deeply. Before, I didn't think it was possible. The device is equipped with a spray nozzle that rotates in all directions. It is easy to care for him, and he works not noisily. Now we choose an air humidifier only from this company (about the ultrasonic model Ballu UHB-205).

Anna, 29 years old.

Types of Humidifiers

There are three types of household humidifiers on the market today: traditional, steam and ultrasonic.The distribution by type is uneven: for example, at the time of preparation of this material, according to Yandex.Market, 116 models of traditional humidifiers, 485 ultrasonic and only 11 steam humidifiers are on sale. Based on these data, it can be argued that the most common today are not traditional at all, as it would be logical to expect, but ultrasonic humidifiers. Steam engines have practically gone out of circulation and, therefore, are hardly of interest to us. How do these models differ?

Traditional Humidifiers

Traditional humidifiers humidify the air by blowing it through a cassette, filter, or other object heavily moistened with water. Thus, they work on the principle of natural evaporation. These devices consume relatively little electricity (from 20 to 60 W) and moderately purify the air during operation by settling part of the dust in the water. The key disadvantages of such devices are relatively low productivity and the need to regularly change the water (it gets dirty) and the filter / cassette (however, some can be washed many times - then you can change, for example, once a year). The main advantage is that the air with this method of humidification is humidified the worse, the higher its humidity - thus, the optimal level of humidity begins to be maintained automatically over time. Well, cleaning the air from dust is also a useful function.

Boneco Air-O-Swiss Traditional Humidifier

Ultrasonic Humidifiers

Ultrasonic humidifiers create cold vapor (actually, to be physically precise, more like fog), consisting of tiny particles of water.The “grinding” of water is carried out using a special membrane that oscillates at high frequencies (hence the name of this type of device). Ultrasonic models, on average, consume no more than 50 W, have an average performance and sometimes allow the possibility of heating water. Steam, therefore, will be supplied heated, and the room will not be cooled. It is clear that you will have to pay for such an option not only by the increased price of the device itself, but also by increased power consumption. One of the key complaints about ultrasonic humidifiers is the appearance of a characteristic white coating on furniture if ordinary tap water is used. In addition, if the ultrasonic humidifier does not have a built-in humidity sensor (hygrometer), it will humidify the air even after reaching the required humidity level - no “self-regulation”, as in the case of traditional humidifiers, occurs in this case.

Ultrasonic miniature humidifier Redmond RHF-3308

Steam humidifiers

Steam humidifiers, as you might guess, provide humidification from the air by spraying hot steam. The principle of operation of such a device is very simple: water is supplied to a special container in which it heats up and evaporates. Such a device does not require special filters for cleaning and will be easy to maintain. You will have to pay for this with increased energy consumption and, as a result, an increase in the temperature in the room (which, however, can be interpreted as a virtue if the humidifier is supposed to be used where heating does not interfere). An additional advantage is that humidification occurs with steam - that is, in fact, with distilled water.

But the increased noise level cannot be called a virtue: not everyone will like using a steam humidifier in bedrooms. There have also been complaints that such devices dry indoor plants, and if the power of the device is chosen incorrectly (if the humidifier is too powerful, or if it is installed in too small a room), it is easy to create a sauna effect in the room.

Steam humidifier Stadler Form Fred F-008EH with a fun design

Humidifier Selection Criteria

We will note the desirable functions and parameters that you should pay attention to when choosing a device for humidifying the air in the house

Orientation to the intended use

First of all, it is necessary to clearly understand for what purposes the humidifier is purchased. For example, if you need a device for a nursery, you should give preference to a model with a low noise level and strict security controls. The area of ​​​​the room in which you plan to humidify the air is also important: for large areas, models with a larger radius of action and higher power are needed.

Water refill indicator

Light indication will warn you if there is little liquid left. This feature improves the overall safety of the device and is simply convenient.

Indicator of contamination and replacement of consumables

This button will notify you when it is time to change cartridges and filters. Extremely useful functionality that will extend the life of the humidifier. In addition, this will eliminate unpleasant surprises in the form of breakdowns, malfunctions or a decrease in the quality of air purification due to dirt deposited in the cartridges.

Case convenience

When choosing, you should pay attention to ergonomics, transportability, ease of assembly and home maintenance of the humidifier.

Streaming steam

A handy feature that delivers moisture where it's needed most. For example, you can direct the flow towards a heating radiator or towards a pedestal with indoor plants. In this case, you don’t have to choose: the steam supply will go synchronously and in parallel to different sections.

Availability of night mode

For appliances equipped with this function, the noise level is reduced at night and the indication on the display goes out. Such a humidifier does not fit the comfortable night air.

compactness

With equal characteristics, a more compact model should be preferred. Such a device is easy to carry and maintain, and does not clutter up the space.

Price

No less, and perhaps one of the most important selection criteria for many, is the cost. But the rule "the more expensive the better" is not entirely applicable to this situation. The fact is that the cost of a humidifier will rather depend on the type of device. So, usually the most inexpensive are mechanical or steam, ultrasonic devices are slightly more expensive, and the most expensive are combined models, climatic complexes with an extended set of functions.

Advanced Features

Some models have additional functionality. But is it necessary, let's try to figure it out.

Air cleaner function

It will help remove dust, pollution and microbes from the air thanks to special filtration technologies. But a full-fledged air cleaner will not replace this, it will rather act as a pleasant bonus. Allergy sufferers and people with respiratory diseases should buy a high-quality purifier along with a humidifier separately.

Built-in flavor

A very controversial feature, needed for special occasions or for a big fan. Since the constant excessive aromatization is more likely to cause a headache and malaise, than there will be any benefit to well-being. An ordinary aroma lamp or a freshener will help add aromas to the house, but a humidifier is still invented for other purposes.

Air ionization function

The function is useful, but a full-fledged ozonizer-ionizer does not replace. And the benefit is in negatively charged oxygen ions, which attract and hold liquid molecules. This improves the quality of air humidification.

Thus, when choosing a humidifier for your home, it is important to clearly understand the purpose of the purchase and the priority functions for yourself. Then choosing the right device will not be difficult.

Types of devices for humidification and their features

There are only three varieties.

Steam

Kills germs and bacteria with hot steam. It is considered one of the safest, as it does not adversely affect human health. Another plus is the ability to strongly humidify the room, up to the formation of a thick fog and humidity above 60%. In terms of production, this gadget will be effective for a huge area. Greenhouses, greenhouses and winter gardens - these are the objects that mainly deal with them

When choosing a model for an apartment, it is important to pay attention to the stability of the base - if the structure turns over, all the liquid will spill onto the floor.

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Ultrasonic

Dry air passes through a cloud of invisible vapor and, already cleaned of minerals, salts and properly humidified, is sent back into the room. As a rule, the filter is included in the kit and ensures proper operation for three months, after which it needs to be changed.Manufacturers recommend these models for children's rooms because of the high level of safety. The child can turn the device in his hands without the risk of spilling something or getting burned. What is good, it is convenient to turn on the gadget when you leave the apartment. If all the liquid evaporates, it will turn off, and before that, it will work silently for the benefit of your health.

Classical

The natives of the market are those who maintain the microclimate by cleaning everything through the liquid in the tank. Among the advantages are economical energy consumption, unpretentiousness in care and quiet operation. These models are usually very simple, without the ability to set the degree of humidification and automatic shutdown. It is unlikely that they will be useful in greenhouses or greenhouses; they cannot do a tropical climate. But they are perfect for an office or apartment.

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Why do you need a humidifier?

Most of the year each person spends indoors. There is practically no person in the open air. As a result, the moisture balance is disturbed, leading to various diseases.

In the summer months, such an imbalance is almost not felt, however, in the winter, the difference in air humidity in the street and indoors is very noticeable. First of all, this is due to the heating of the premises by the heating system.

The nose and throat of a person will be the first to feel a lack of moisture in the air, there will be a feeling of dryness, then the human skin and lips begin to dry out.

If you notice similar symptoms in yourself or your loved ones, then you need to take immediate action.

Now we come close to the question - how can you maintain the natural level of humidity in the house or at work?

Using a humidifier will solve dry air problems.

Atomizer or adiabatic humidifier

The listed types and types of air humidifiers are home, suitable for use in a house or apartment. They are effective in rooms up to 60 square meters on average. However, what if you need not a household appliance, but a device that can cope with a large area of ​​an industrial greenhouse, workshop or a huge warehouse?

In such situations, an adiabatic air humidifier or a spray type appliance is most suitable.
Its principle of operation is to spray water, which is supplied to special nozzles under high pressure. Passing through the nozzle, the liquid breaks up into microscopic drops - their size is 3-8 micrometers. The water suspension flies away from the device at a distance of 20-50 centimeters and at the same time is completely converted into steam, distributed over the entire area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room.

The adiabatic air humidifier has small dimensions, but huge power. Often it is attached to the wall and passes through itself every hour from 50 to 250 liters of water. There is no need to use such a device for domestic purposes, but it is ideal for workshops and warehouses.

The main advantage is the possibility of constant use at any time of the year. The Adiabatic Humidifier consumes a moderate amount of energy and can be configured in a variety of ways to create a special storage environment for rare or "whimsical" goods in the warehouse. Individual assembly of devices is allowed - this is the second advantage that no other type of humidifier has.

An adiabatic air humidifier has one, but a very significant drawback - a huge cost. It reaches several thousand dollars.The cost fluctuation depends on additional functions and the scope of delivery to the enterprise from the manufacturer.

Rating of the most effective humidifiers

Conventional Humidifiers:

• 10-15 m² - Philips HU 4706. Compact device with a neat design. Filling volume - 1300 ml of water. Quiet operation. Evaporation rate - 150 ml / h.
• Up to 40 m² - Stadler Form Oskar O-026. Uses 300 ml of water per hour. Capacity - 3000 ml. The ability to control the level of evaporation. Additional functions - air freshener, antibacterial filter.
• Up to 50 m² - Boneco W2055DR. Powerful unit with a large capacity - up to 7000 ml. Consumes 300 ml/h. Supplemented with ionizer and fragrance.

Steam products:

• Up to 20 m² - Philips HU4707/13. A device with a rather modest tank (1300 ml) and the least amount of evaporated water (150 ml/h). Type of control - electronic, operates in 2 modes.
• Up to 25 m² - Gorenje H17B. A product demanded by the consumer for its light weight and mobility. The volume of the water tank is 1700 ml. Control type - mechanical.
• Up to 40 m² - Stadler Form Fred F-005EH. The size of the tank is impressive (3700 ml). Water loss - 340 ml / h. It is famous for its reliability and the fact that it makes little noise when turned on. Equipped with built-in humidistat.

Ultrasonic units:

• Up to 40 m² - BALLU UHB-400. Compact device with a 2800 ml reservoir and a flow rate of 300 ml/h. It has the functions of air freshener, lighting.
• Up to 60 m² - Electrolux EHU-5515D. The humidifier can be used both in desktop and floor variations. Capacity - 6700 ml. Liquids are spent per hour from 400 to 550 ml.The amount of evaporation is affected by the set mode: “normal” or “warm steam”. Control type - electronic.
• Up to 65 m² - Stadler Form Jack J-020/021. The device allows you to most efficiently humidify the air of the room. The volume of the reservoir is up to 5000 ml of water, the loss of fluid per hour is 450 ml. Efficient air purification due to cartridges. It is possible to adjust the intensity of steam generation.

The listed models are an excellent demonstration of the best combination of price, high quality and functionality of devices.

In this article, we have analyzed what air humidifiers are, their types and how they work. Today, the choice of such technology is quite wide. In stores you can find devices of different price categories, designs and principles of operation. This opens up a lot of room for analysis before buying. We hope that the information provided in this review was useful to you.

Climate technology Humidifier

How to choose a good humidifier?

Before proceeding directly to the description of the models, let's add a little theory so that in the store you understand what's what and do not fall for the cunning tricks of marketers and sellers. So, when choosing a humidifier, consider the following details:

the principle of operation is the most important. Depending on the features of the work, air humidifiers are divided into the following types:

traditional use the principle of "cold evaporation"

The water in them is poured into a special tray, and then falls on the mesh cartridges. A fan helps to distribute moisture throughout the apartment. A significant advantage is safety, since it is unrealistic to get a burn.It is also impossible to overmoisten the air, because the most natural process of saturation with moisture takes place, and therefore you will not get the result immediately. Such devices consume electricity economically, but they differ in noise during operation, a small number of options, the need to regularly change cartridges and use purified water, otherwise a white coating may appear on the furniture;

steam humidifiers work like a kettle. The water in them is heated by a spiral or a ceramic plate, turns into steam, which is thrown into space. Productivity and efficiency are on top - you will feel the result almost immediately after switching on. You can pour any water. In addition, most models can also be used as inhalers. The main disadvantage is the high temperature of the steam and the risk of getting burned. In addition, the device is noisy and consumes more electricity than a traditional counterpart, and scale may appear on the heating element;

ultrasonic humidifiers are considered the most effective. Water in them enters the plate, where, under the action of ultrasonic waves, it breaks into tiny particles. Due to the minimum weight, the droplets easily rise, saturating the air with moisture. A low-power fan is used to distribute particles more efficiently. The device is as safe as possible, allows you to reach almost any level of humidity, and the most advanced models can sterilize the outgoing cold steam and supply it in different directions, and this is not the whole set of additional functions. However, it is better to use purified water, and in order for the device to serve for a long time, it will have to be cleaned periodically. Another disadvantage is the higher price;

serviced area. Everything is easy here.Determined in which room the humidifier will be placed? Remember its area and look for a device whose characteristics will indicate a suitable value. It is better to buy a humidifier for a certain room, and not for the whole apartment, and with a small margin;

water consumption indicates the level of performance of the device. Ranges from 20 to 600 ml/h;

the duration of work depends on the water consumption and the volume of the water tank, it ranges from 5 to 24 hours, but the best choice is devices designed for 10-12 hours of operation. They will be able to work all night, or during the working day;

control type. Devices with mechanical control are reliable, easy to use and cheaper, but electronic control significantly expands the functionality of the device;

noise level is an important parameter for traditional and steam devices. It is better to take humidifiers with a noise level of up to 40 dB, and even better - up to 30 dB;

additional functions. There are useful and useless. The timer, built-in hygrostat and automatic adjustment of the evaporation intensity are convenient and necessary functions. Among the additional features, we also note aromatization, ionization, ozonization, the presence of a UV lamp, as well as air purification and the possibility of supplying warm steam. There can also be water backlight, night mode, water refill indicator, filter cleaning indicator.

Air washers are sold along with humidifiers. This is a more complex and functional equipment, the primary task of which is to purify the air. If you only need a humidification function, then it is better to save money and take a regular humidifier.