The ideal humidity levels in living spaces are between 40 and 60 percent. Within indoor air, however, relative humidity is often lower than this. Our senses are unable to detect a lack of humidity. This is why we need a solution that ensures an optimal room climate. Humidifiers are the answer. There are various humidifiers on the market which use different humidification methods. This makes it difficult to know which system is best. We’ve taken a close look at the various systems for you. Discover which humidifier type is best and why.
ULTRASONIC HUMIDIFIER
Ultrasonic humidifiers are among the lower-priced solutions on the market. They require very low energy consumption. Ultrasonic humidifiers apply high-frequency vibrations to agitate the 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. Cool air may be a welcome side effect in summer, but in winter this increases heating costs. What’s more, the mist can cause condensation 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 atomizers 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 cause malfunctioning. The appliance must be cleaned regularly, otherwise, germs and bacteria develop, which can contaminate your indoor air. Ultrasonic humidifiers often produce white dust which can collect on furniture, flooring, and other objects in your space.
VAPORIZER
In general, vaporizers channel water through an electric heating element, where it boils and is emitted as water vapor into your indoor air. This method means that the power consumption is high compared to other humidifiers. The vaporizing system also generates calcium deposits, which is why the appliance requires regular cleaning.
There is also a risk of condensation, so vaporizers shouldn’t be placed near walls or furniture. Incorrect settings can cause over-humidification leading to mold 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 vapor 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.
TRADITIONAL EVAPORATIVE HUMIDIFIER
A typical characteristic of evaporators is low energy consumption. Air is drawn in and driven by a fan through moist filters. The water evaporates and is emitted into the air. The advantage here is that, unlike with vaporizers or atomizers, 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 traditional evaporators is that the filters provide a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. These germs can then be emitted into the air. To prevent this, the filters 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 spaces.
VENTA EVAPORATIVE HUMIDIFIER
Unlike traditional evaporative humidifiers, Venta Humidifiers offer filter-free humidification and operate exclusively with tap water. As a disk stack rotates in a water tray, hygienically clean water evaporates. So, unlike atomizers or vaporizers, Venta humidifiers do not produce any ions, ozone, white dust, or mist.
The special feature of Venta Humidifiers is that they not only humidify the air but also naturally reduce indoor air pollutants such as house dust or pollen. Venta Humidifiers capture the filtered-out particles inside the appliance. That can bring great relief to people with allergies. This type of cold evaporation is recognized as the best and most hygienic humidifying method. What’s more, it does not cause any calcium or mist in the room. In 1981, Venta’s founder Fred Hitzler developed this principle and invented the Airwasher, which revolutionized the market.