Do you need a humidifier in your apartment? Strong arguments for and against

What is the use of the device for a child

The birth of a child is an important event in the life of every family. From the first days, parents try to surround the baby with care, create excellent conditions for him.

Even our mothers and grandmothers knew how important it is to maintain the microclimate in the apartment. Humidifiers and other newfangled devices did not exist in those years, so they used improvised means. Pots of water were placed under the radiators, and wet towels were hung in the rooms. Dry air is quite dangerous for babies, especially in their first days of life.An unfavorable level of humidity is fraught with a lot of negative aspects:

• a large number of dust particles and microbes are formed in the air, which, if they enter the respiratory tract of a child, provoke the development of various diseases;
• microcracks and wounds may appear on the baby's skin, which can cause infection of the skin;
• the blood becomes thicker, which prevents the normal functioning of the internal organs;
• due to adverse conditions, the child may experience a deterioration in the quality of sleep and general condition.

Doctors say that humidifying the air in an apartment where a small child is located is a must. But everything is in moderation. Experts warn young mothers: do not oversaturate the living space with moisture. In such an environment, the fungus multiplies rapidly, and mold appears on the walls. Mushroom spores cause allergic reactions and reduce the immunity of not only a child, but also an adult.

Parents who installed an air humidifier in their apartment note that sleep in young children has normalized, the condition of the skin and hair has improved significantly, and infectious diseases and allergies have become less disturbing.

Opinions on the benefits and harms of a humidifier

When the nasopharynx dries up, its protective system ceases to function, and this is one of the main causes of colds, infectious and allergic diseases. However, there is a point of view about the dangers of a humidifier: supposedly he himself can provoke diseases.

Particular discussions are about what are the real benefits and harms of an ultrasonic humidifier or its counterparts of other types. In addition, justifications for the inefficiency of the devices are given.

To get an idea of ​​the imaginary shortcomings of humidifiers, you should read the most common opinions and reviews about them with expert comments.

Because of the humidifier, you can get a sore throat

Even an adult can get a sore throat at a constant humidity in the room above 80%, and even more so for a child. In such conditions, a lot of mucus accumulates in the respiratory tract, which promotes the growth of bacteria.

The optimal humidity level is from 45 to 60%, and for babies - 50-70%. In apartments with central heating in winter, this figure does not exceed 35%. And what does a humidifier give in this case, how does it help? He just corrects this difference.

The device does not help create the desired mode

The model should be selected by power, comparing it with the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room. If the humidifier is designed for 15 m2, it is not suitable for a room of 25 m2. A low-power device will work non-stop, requiring constant topping up of water in the tank.

The humidifier poses a danger to the baby

Ultrasonic humidifiers and traditional cold steam units are absolutely safe for children and adults.

The steam device should be placed out of reach of children, as they can be burned by hot steam (this rule does not apply to ultrasonic and traditional units, they can be placed in any convenient place).

How much impact a humidifier will have on a child often depends on the actions of the parents. To prevent the device from polluting the air and spreading bacteria, you should regularly change the filters, wash the parts that come into contact with water. Do not forget about the periodic ventilation of the room to fill it with fresh air.

Have to buy expensive filters

Consumables are expensive. They are changed with different frequency - this is reported in the instructions. When purchasing a humidifier, they specify not only the frequency of filter replacement, but also their cost at different outlets - this way you can find a more profitable option.

Despite the existing prejudices, all the pros and cons, humidifiers are being bought in our country more and more often - mainly thanks to modern doctors. From their point of view, dry air is extremely unhealthy, and simply dangerous for babies. The benefits of a humidifier, according to doctors, outweigh the harm several times over.

Here is a list of useful features of the device:

1. Regulates heat transfer in young children. Their body generates more heat than adults, but at the same time, its return goes mainly through the lungs, and not the skin. Therefore, with dry air, the baby loses a lot of moisture, his blood thickens, and violations of the functions of internal organs are possible. When the mucous membranes dry out in infants, crusts form that interfere with breathing - this sometimes leads to its complete blockage.
2. Reduces the risk of respiratory diseases. When the mucus dries up, it is unable to neutralize harmful viruses and bacteria, and, on the contrary, becomes their nursery. The chance of getting sick with bronchitis, pneumonia, otitis, sinusitis increases sharply.
3. Eases allergy sufferers. Buying a humidifier-purifier will reduce the concentration of allergens in the room, reducing the likelihood of asthma, rhinitis.
4. Rejuvenation and healing of the skin. When moistened, it does not peel off, does not irritate, wrinkles appear less.
5. Maintain immunity, prevent dehydration.

Features of work and advantages of air washers

Air washers are of two types: with a disc rod and a hydrofilter. The first option is similar to a "cold" humidifier - the air is humidified naturally, creating a healthier living environment. A fan is installed in the upper part of the device, which blows air to the rotating plates. They are partially submerged in water and during the operation of the device, dry and dirty air, passing through them, is cleaned of impurities and becomes more humid and fresh. Sinks are capable of holding particles larger than 10 microns.

A sink with a hydrofilter is rarely used in domestic conditions. Instead of a rod with discs, there is a plastic cone inside the device, where water is injected. The cone spins and sprays water, creating what looks like rain. The air from the room, passing through it, is cleaned of contaminants and allergens. Such sinks can be equipped with air ionizers and UV filters.

Changes in air quality after washing

The device raises the humidity to a maximum of 60%: it is no longer possible to go higher, otherwise there will be dampness. Some models are equipped with hygrometers and work automatically. At the same time, the advantages of regular use are obvious:

1. Washing makes the air cleaner, healthier and fresher - like after a summer thunderstorm.
2. The device perfectly copes with allergens - it is very useful for allergy sufferers, suffering from bronchial asthma and lung diseases, families with children.

Despite the opinion that air washing is more suitable for owners of city apartments, private homeowners should also take a closer look at this useful miracle of technology.In one-story houses, no less pollution accumulates - dust is brought in, there is much more pollen, stove heating dries the air more, it often contains soot, smoke particles, and most owners keep animals. Therefore, air washing can be an excellent option for a country house, improving the atmosphere and the health of all inhabitants.

Filtration systems

In this case, the humidifying system uses a special filter through which
water before getting into the air. It performs an important function - cuts off dust,
microbes, various microorganisms. With a good filter, the room will become cleaner in all areas.
meaning, the accumulation of dust on the walls and ceiling will be slightly reduced.

This is a traditional moisturizer. Filter cartridges are replaced, you will have to do this
often, because with a delay in it, microbes begin to multiply that can cause
allergic reaction.

Alternative - . It heats water to a state of steam, and under
pressurized into the room. This is an effective way to increase humidity in
room, but it is dangerous for pets and small children.

The general principle is similar to the operation of an electric kettle. The system is heated by
spiral, or ceramic plate. When the water boils away completely, the device
the sensor is triggered and it turns off, allowing the owner to make a replacement.

An important detail is the high safety requirements.
Turning on the device is possible only if all the components are assembled and the electrodes are hidden in
case and do not stick out from the outside

HEPA cleaner. The third and most effective option against dust. This filter creates
solid barrier on the path of particles.They settle in the pores of the filter, thus being cleaned
air. The filter is easy to care for - just vacuum it once a month. HEPA
the filter is suitable for allergy sufferers.

No open windows

Any user who is going to purchase climate equipment for their home has a reasonable question: what about ventilation? After all, if the air washer or humidifier is working, then the windows must be closed? Because if you open them, the device will humidify the air outside. But not ventilating for a long time is also bad, because the concentration of carbon dioxide in the room increases. And this is worse than flying dust and dry skin.

“Indeed, it turns out an absurd situation,” says Viktor Borisov. - We clean and humidify the air, then we start fresh from the street, with it all the dirt, dust, soot, soot that is overboard flies into the apartment. You can keep the windows ventilated so that the flow of air from the streets does not stop. Through a small window gap, the purified air will not immediately escape, and yet there is a more effective solution to the problem - forced ventilation.

Victor assures that after installing the supply air purifier, you can forget about open windows and ventilation - “smart” technology will itself supply fresh air to the house, purify it and warm it in the cold season.

“Inlet ventilation is installed quickly, it does not require dirty and dusty work - a small hole is drilled in the wall bordering the street, a breather is attached to it from the inside of the apartment - a device slightly smaller than a conventional air conditioner,” explains Viktor Borisov.- The air is drawn from the street into the hole, goes through several stages of purification by filters that trap dust, soot, unpleasant odors, and enters the room. Some manufacturers also supply the breather with an ultraviolet lamp, but there is no definitive answer on whether the UV disinfection devices in compact breathers are really effective.”

Almost all breathers sold in Russia are equipped with a heater that brings the air taken from the street to a comfortable temperature, and many are equipped with a carbon dioxide sensor: the gadget itself determines when the level of CO₂ in the room rises and turns on the ventilation. While the owners are not at home, the device turns off so as not to consume electricity.

Forced ventilation should be done in every living room, primarily where people sleep. The cost of equipment for one room is about 35 thousand rubles. Once a year, you need to change the filters in the breather, and also wash the air intake grille every couple of months, on which the largest particles of debris and dust stick.

“If we installed forced ventilation in an apartment or house, the problem of air purification and fresh air supply is solved. It remains to buy a humidifier to maintain the optimal level of humidity at home, because the presence of forced ventilation during the heating period, when it is colder outside than in the house, will a priori make the air dry,” says Viktor Borisov.

A device with a built-in humidifier has recently appeared on the market, such a breather solves three problems at once: ventilation, air purification and humidification. The disadvantage of such a device is a small water tank with a volume of only three liters, such a breather will have to be filled twice a day.

The expert notes that supply ventilation is especially relevant in houses that are located near noisy roads, highways, in environmentally polluted areas.

Karina Saltykova

Why do you need a humidifier?

Summarizing the above, we can conclude that need a humidifier at home to:

• regulate the humidity of the air, favorable for indoor life;
• improve people's quality of life;
• ensure normal breathing, moisten the mucous membranes of the nasopharynx in order to prevent injury and infection and harmful substances from entering the body;
• help maintain the beauty and softness of the skin;
• ensure good breathing during sleep and stay indoors;
• to secure, clean the air from dust and harmful substances;
• give the opportunity to grow flowers that need a special climate and humidity level;
• ensure the normal functioning of pets that need to breathe;
• eliminate unpleasant odors in the air.

Common disadvantages of different types of humidifiers:

• like any electrical appliance, the humidifier is dangerous for those who handle it carelessly;
• if your family has children, you should not buy a steam humidifier because of the hot steam - they can get burned. Steam appliances must be handled with great care;
• the humidifier needs care - it needs to be washed and cleaned frequently;
• The humidification values ​​given in the description of the device are calculated for a sealed room. Therefore, it is inefficient to ventilate and humidify the air at the same time. If you are humidifying a room that is poorly protected from the influence of the external environment, be prepared for the fact that the humidity readings may differ from those stated in the description of the device;
• be prepared for the fact that hot steam can provoke the appearance of a specific smell in the rooms;
• some devices at full power are quite noisy;
• some humidifiers need replacement cartridges, often not very cheap;
• to control the operation of devices, you have to purchase humidity meters. Excess moisture, like its lack, is harmful - mold may appear;
• it is necessary to buy purified water or purify water from a tap, which is not convenient for everyone.

Don't skimp on a humidifier. You need to approach the purchase wisely, evaluating the quality of the device, its parameters. If you buy a device without taking into account the parameters suitable for the room, then it will not bring the desired effect.

If you blindly chase after a small price, then perhaps in a couple of years you will have to spend money again on a new gadget.

Overview of modern humidifiers

Humidifier Polaris PUH 0806Di disassembled

In this example, consider a typical technique in this category. An ultrasonic nebulizer is installed here. The high-frequency oscillation of the working plate is not felt by the human ear. This action creates the smallest particles of water with a small amount of electricity (30 W/h). Such a device is able to serve a room up to 50 square meters. with a ceiling height of not more than 3 m.

Below are other important features:

• A large built-in capacity (6 l) is sufficient to maintain continuous operation for up to 45 hours.
• The built-in hygrostat maintains the humidity level automatically set by the user.
• Backlight makes it easier to handle equipment at night.
• The timer is used to set an individual turn-on time schedule.
• In the "night" mode, the equipment performs its functions as quietly as possible.
• A special filter provides protection against limescale.
• If necessary, you can use the option "Fragrance".

Some models are additionally equipped with a remote control, ionization, ozonation, and disinfection units.

Modern steam modifications are completely harmless to users

In this technique, the desired result is obtained in the process of boiling water. The steam temperature is reduced to a safe level using special structural elements. A significant advantage is the automatic disinfection of the liquid with the simultaneous removal of hardness salts. The main disadvantage is the increased power consumption.

In equipment of this category, the air flow is passed through wetted discs, or other moistened barrier.

After such treatment, dust is removed from the air atmosphere along with allergens, odors, and harmful chemical compounds. Owners post positive reviews on air washers. The benefits and harms of these and other humidifiers are discussed in detail in the following sections of the article.

In any case, when comparing, it is recommended to pay attention to the following parameters:

• primary cost and expenses during operation for replaceable elements, service;
• electricity consumption, noise level;
• maximum duration of the working cycle;
• equipment of means of control and automation.

pros

Cleaning the air in the apartment from harmful impurities makes it more beneficial to health, even if the consumer lives in a gassed city.
Removal of allergens, pollen, tobacco smoke, soot from the air greatly facilitates the life of allergy sufferers, this is especially important during an exacerbation of the disease.
Removing bacteria and viruses during epidemics makes it possible to resist the spread of infection, to prevent an increase in the number of sick family members.
Purification with ozonation helps to disinfect the air, creating a feeling of freshness, like after a thunderstorm.
Washers and humidifiers in rooms with low humidity solve this problem, help to avoid all sorts of ailments, irritation of the eyes, mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract, a decrease in the protective functions of the skin and the whole organism as a whole.

pros

Cleaning the air in the apartment from harmful impurities makes it more beneficial to health, even if the consumer lives in a gassed city.
Removal of allergens, pollen, tobacco smoke, soot from the air greatly facilitates the life of allergy sufferers, this is especially important during an exacerbation of the disease.
Removing bacteria and viruses during epidemics makes it possible to resist the spread of infection, to prevent an increase in the number of sick family members.
Purification with ozonation helps to disinfect the air, creating a feeling of freshness, like after a thunderstorm.
Washers and humidifiers in rooms with low humidity solve this problem, help to avoid all sorts of ailments, irritation of the eyes, mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract, a decrease in the protective functions of the skin and the whole organism as a whole.

Humidifiers - good or bad

Despite the fact that air humidifiers appeared a long time ago, they began to enjoy popularity only recently. In many ways, this is the merit of modern doctors, who are of the opinion that dry air is very harmful to health, especially for children.

The benefits of humidifiers

Humidifiers are designed to increase the humidity in rooms and get rid of the negative effects of dry air.

Especially great is the use of a humidifier for children. Babies have a faster metabolism than adults, so their bodies produce more heat. At the same time, heat transfer is regulated more by the lungs, and not by the skin. When the air in the room is very dry, the child's body loses a lot of fluid, there is increased sweating, thickening of the blood, and, sometimes,

With insufficient moisture, the mucous membranes dry out and crusts form on them, making it difficult to breathe. Because of this, complete blockage of breathing can occur. In addition, dried mucus completely loses its protective properties and, on the contrary, turns into a favorable environment for the development of bacteria. This significantly increases the risk of various diseases: bronchitis, otitis media, pneumonia, sinusitis, chronic tonsillitis, etc.

Also, overdried mucous membranes are very sensitive to allergens and dust, humidifiers help to minimize the risk of asthma and rhinitis.

Adequate level of humidity in the room helps to avoid dry skin, which leads to peeling, irritation and premature aging. It also helps maintain immunity and protects the body from dehydration.

Dry air can cause a decrease in concentration and a feeling of fatigue.By using a humidifier for your home, you can avoid these problems. With a sufficient level of humidity, you will not experience a constant feeling of thirst, your eyes will not turn red and tired, it will be easier for you to concentrate, and you will feel much more comfortable indoors.

However, a humidifier is useful not only for humans. It will help preserve wooden furniture and doors, which dry out and deform from overdrying. Also, moist air is simply necessary for the normal growth of indoor plants.

Humidifier harm

The benefits of sufficient humidity are obvious, but is it safe to use humidifiers to achieve it?

The modern market offers several types of air humidifiers, while each of them has its own advantages and, of course, disadvantages.

• Steam humidifiers emit hot steam into the air from boiling water. When using such devices, there is a possibility of getting burned. They also increase the overall temperature in the room, which, in combination with heating devices, can create a very hot and at the same time humid climate that can be harmful to health. In addition, it is necessary to select a suitable place for the steam humidifier, for example, by installing it near the wall, you risk permanently ruining the wallpaper.
• Traditional cold humidifiers are considered the most suitable for apartments. Water is poured into them, which falls on the evaporative elements. The fan built into this device passes air through them, which takes it from the room, and then gives it out already humid. At the same time, it not only moisturizes, but also cleans the air from foreign particles and dust.However, on the replaceable cassettes that traditional humidifiers are equipped with, all kinds of microorganisms accumulate, which, together with the air emitted by the device, enter the room, then into the lungs.
• An ultrasonic humidifier uses electromagnetic vibrations to turn water into microscopic sprays. Its main disadvantage is that it throws water into the air along with all the substances that were dissolved in it. Most often these are salts, but there may be other harmful impurities. They settle on furniture and floors, as well as in the respiratory tract. This problem can be solved by using distilled water, but obtaining it can cause some difficulties.

Also, when using air humidifiers, it is necessary to constantly monitor the level of humidity, since high humidity can harm no less than dry air. To do this, you will have to purchase a separate hygrometer or a humidifier with a built-in hygrometer.

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How does the device affect people, animals and plants?

When small particles H₂O (water) enter the environment, then the microclimate changes. The chemical properties of the air itself also change. As you know, it does not happen to be perfectly clean, impurities are always present: dust, microorganisms, animal hair and dander, small villi from things, and so on. To reduce the concentration of these substances, it is necessary to ensure a decrease in air velocity, "gluing" of small particles and their settling. Knowing this, many contemporaries tend to buy a humidifier. Ultrasonic feedback has both positive and negative.Steam also does not delight everyone. A little later, you will find out what are good and what disadvantages those and other models have.

In addition, it should be noted that modern devices are equipped with an ionization function and aromatherapy. Accordingly, the device can be used both during mental work and during sleep. And now we list how the humidifier affects people:

• moisturizes the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract;
• eliminate dry eyes;
• the skin becomes hydrated;
• general well-being improves;
• less thirsty;
• calm appears;
• improved performance and sleep;
• reduces the risk of viral and microbial infections.

Such an extensive list can encourage almost every reader to buy a device. But don't rush. First of all, let's talk about the types, pros and cons.

Features of the air ionization process

To understand why ionization is needed in a room humidifier and what it is in general, it is worth studying the features of the process. So, in nature, ionization occurs naturally. In nature, the ionization process is associated with powerful discharges of electricity (thunderstorms), as well as cosmic radiation. It is especially sharply felt in the mountains, on the sea coast, in a coniferous forest.

In fact, ionization is the process of knocking out individual electrons from gas molecules. At the end of the reaction, two charged molecules (negative and positive) are obtained from two neutral molecules.

Ionization is a natural process that constantly occurs in nature, improves air quality, reduces the level of oxygen vacuum. To launch it in the apartment requires the use of special devices

Along with air ionizers, there are also universal devices on sale, for example, air humidifiers equipped with an ionizer. They are able to provide the necessary humidity, air purification in the room.

When figuring out when to use the ionization function in a room humidifier, keep in mind that ionized air helps prevent the development of cardiovascular diseases. Thanks to an excess of oxygen, metabolic processes are activated, the walls of blood vessels are strengthened, and the likelihood of blood clots is reduced.

Another important plus that ionization provides in a home humidifier is the deposition of dust. It is difficult to track visually, however, everyone understands that it is much easier to wipe the floor and wipe the dust from the surface of the furniture than to deal with the consequences of getting it into the lungs.

Scientists have recorded that a decrease in the level of occurrence, exacerbation of lung diseases, including asthmatic attacks, problems with the digestive tract, occur during the period of increasing the concentration of ions in the air

According to information from open sources, humidifiers with the function of air ionization will provide a number of undoubted advantages:

• improving the quality of sleep - healthy, good rest significantly improves the overall quality of life;
• acceleration of metabolism - allows you to look great, facilitates the course of various diseases, somewhat alleviates symptoms;
• increase in working capacity, concentration of attention;
• optimization of the immune system;
• good rest - allows you to increase the overall emotional state, the level of vitality, which helps in the fight against depression, neurosis.

For some diseases, it is sometimes recommended to carry out ionization of the air in the room.

Indications for using the ionization function

Air containing a large amount of negative ions is indicated in the cases listed below.

In the user's bronchial asthma, provoked by allergens, the air filled with particles with a negative charge makes it possible to notice an improvement after the first ionization.

In some situations, positively charged particles provide the best effect. Serious improvement is noted after 12 ionization procedures.

A large amount of time spent at the computer, TV, leads to deionization. The lack of ions in the air leads to a decrease in the rate of redox processes, inhibition of the activity of the immune system

With neuroses, an increase in the number of ions in the air contributes to a general improvement in the patient's condition. An increase in the rate of wound healing was also noted at a high concentration of air ions.

When is ionization contraindicated?

Despite the many undoubted advantages, there are also contraindications.

Doctors do not recommend using the ionization function in the presence of the following diseases:

1. Accelerated metabolism can lead to exacerbation of chronic diseases, sluggish infections. It is not recommended to carry out ionization in the room where the patient with oncology lives.
2. Ionized air can harm a patient with a high fever. It can rise even more.
3. There is an individual intolerance to a large number of air ions in the air, hypersensitivity to them.

When using additional functions in a humidifier, it is important to listen to your well-being.If during the operation of the device there is a headache, other unpleasant sensations, it is better to refuse ionization