Humidifiers 101 part 2

There are four basic types of humidifiers:

Ultrasonic machines which create a cool aerosolized mist by means of ultrasonic vibrations

Impeller devices can generate a soothing cool mist by a fast spinning disk

Evaporative devices, which blows moisture into the surrounding air with the use of fan. The fan blows on a moist wick or filter and fine water droplets are created which disperse in the room

Steam vaporizer devices create water vapor by heating the water with electrodes. The water mist in this case is warm. Some of these devices also cool the mist before it leaves the device.

How to use the humidifiers

Devices like the evaporative and steam vaporizer allow water to stand for long periods and this allows growth of mold and other organism. There is evidence from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that certain ultrasonic and impeller (or “cool mist”) humidifiers can transmit materials like mold, dust mites, microorganism from the tank into the indoor environment. However, the consumer should rest assured that so far no one has shown that dispersal of these materials is harmful to health. In any case, precaution is advised.

Therefore, all consumers who use humidifiers should get in the habit of regularly taking care of these machines. Besides regularly adding clean water, the tanks should be cleaned at least once a week and the old water thrown away. There is absolutely no need to use any special sprays, soaps, or detergents to wash these portable devices. Just throw the old water, dry the device and it is ready to be used again. Another advice is to use water with low mineral content. The type of water may be of concern to individuals who have allergies, smokers or those with other lung ailments

There are a lot of myths about tap water. No one has yet proven that tap water used in humidifiers causes any illness. As long as you do not use contaminated or dirty water, there is no reason why tap water cannot be used.

Tap water sometimes does contain materials that precipitates on the surfaces and appears like white dust. Some experts claim that this will be a breeding ground for organisms- just a speculation so far.

For those who are overly concerned bout the water they use, bottle water labeled distilled is recommended by the EPA. The distilled water contains less minerals and retards growth of organism. For those who prefer to use tap water, consider the use of demineralized cartridges or filters as recommended by the manufacturer of the humidifier.

All consumers should note that it is important to use the humidifier only when required. There is always a possibility that humidifiers can disperse microorganism so care should be exercised.

Individuals who use Nebulizers often need humidification and there are a variety of micro humidifiers and accessories available for such use.