Winter can be brutal on our indoor air quality, with dry, stuffy air causing all sorts of symptoms like itchy skin, chapped lips, and intensified allergy and asthma symptoms. A furnace humidifier can help alleviate these issues by adding needed moisture to your entire home’s air.
There are three main types of furnace humidifiers: Bypass Drum, Flow-through, and Steam Whole-home. Each type operates differently and requires different levels of maintenance.
These enclosed units have a rotating drum covered by an evaporator pad that absorbs water and releases it into the air. They are equipped with a saddle valve and float valve to regulate water flow and include an overflow drain cup. While easy to use, these units require regular cleaning of the water pan to remove sediment buildup and prevent bacteria or mildew. The evaporator pad may also need to be replaced from time to time.
These are also considered bypass units, using a water panel evaporator pad, distribution tray, and supply line to add moisture to dry air. They have an exterior case with the water panel exposed and are equipped with a drain spud, using a nearby floor drain for overflow. These units can be connected to an external humidistat and are easier to maintain than Bypass Drum units, though the evaporator pad may need to be replaced when necessary.
These units are independent of your furnace or HVAC system, heating water to create steam that is injected into the air flowing through your home’s ducting. They are easy to maintain, with annual inspection for loose electrodes and plumbing connections, drain line blockage, and steam hose alignment being all that is needed. Water is boiled prior to distribution, ensuring that the air is germ-free.
When it comes to maintaining your furnace humidifier, the type you have will determine the level of care it requires. Bypass Drum units need the most routine maintenance, including regular cleaning of the water pan and possible replacement of the evaporator pad. Flow-through units need annual inspection and cleaning of the pad and assembly to remove mineral deposits, and possible replacement of the pad if you have hard water. Steam units require the least amount of maintenance, with annual inspection for loose connections and blockages being all that is needed.
Investing in a furnace humidifier is a great way to improve your indoor air quality, reduce symptoms of allergies and asthma, and prevent the spread of colds and flu. To ensure your unit is working properly and efficiently, make sure to follow the maintenance guidelines for your specific type.
