Multiple systems, one aim: a comparison of humidifiers

Ultrasonic Humidifier

Ultrasonic humidifier,are among the lower-priced solutions on the market. They have a very low energy consumption.
Ultrasonic humidifier, apply high-frequency vibrations to agitate water. This creates fine water droplets which are distributed evenly in the air. The spray mist emitted humidifies the room climate. However, it also cools the air. That may be a welcome side effect in summer, but in winter it increases heating costs. What’s more, the spray mist can cause condensation precipitation near the appliance. That’s why this kind of appliance shouldn’t be placed close to furniture or walls which would absorb the moisture.
Most atomisers have a limited effective range and are only suitable for smaller rooms.

Another problem is that if you use hard water, a film of calcium can form in the appliance and the room. This can also cause malfunctioning. The appliance must be cleaned regularly, otherwise germs and bacteria develop, which can contaminate the indoor air.

Vaporiser

As a rule, vaporisers channel water through an electric heating element, where it boils and is emitted as water vapour into the indoor air. This method means that the power consumption is high compared with other humidifiers. The vaporising system also generates calcium deposits, which is why the appliance requires regular cleaning.
There is also a risk of condensation precipitation, so vaporisers shouldn’t be placed near walls or furniture. Incorrect settings can cause over-humidification leading to mould formation. It’s advisable to use a hygrometer (humidity measuring device) in the room so you can check on the humidity and regulate it if necessary.

One advantage is that the heat kills most germs and bacteria. However, the heat is also a drawback because the water vapour can cause scalding and burns. For this reason, the appliance must be kept out of the reach of children and pets. There is a danger if the proper temperature is not reached that Legionella bacteria develop and are emitted into the air, causing serious illness.

Evaporator

A typical characteristic of evaporators is low energy consumption. Air is drawn in and driven by a fan through moist filter pads or lamellas. The water evaporates and is emitted into the air. The advantage here is that, unlike with vaporisers or atomisers, no mist is generated which can condense on furniture, windows or walls. Over-humidification is almost impossible with this method.

However, a major disadvantage of evaporators is that the filter pads or lamellas provide a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. These can then be emitted into the air. To prevent this, the filter pads must be changed regularly. It’s also advisable to use a suitable cleaning agent.

Another drawback is that evaporators are only suitable for smaller rooms. They are often not powerful enough for larger rooms.

Airwasher / Humidifier

Airwashers / Humidifiers operate exclusively with tap water. No additional pads or filters are necessary for humidification. As a disk stack rotates in a water tray, hygienically clean water evaporates. So, unlike atomisers or evaporators, Airwashers don’t produce any steam or mist.
The special feature of Airwashers is that they not only humidify the air, but also naturally reduce hazardous substances such as house dust or pollen. Airwashers capture the filtered-out particles inside the appliance. That can bring great relief to people with allergies. This type of cold evaporation is recognised as the best and most hygienic humidifying method. What’s more, it does not cause any calcium precipitation in the room. In 1981, Venta’s founder Fred Hitzler developed this principle and invented the Airwasher, which revolutionised the market.