Last Updated: February 27, 2024
In certain regions, humidity levels tend to stay at one extreme due to climatic conditions. It’s incredibly high in summer, while in winter, it can become super low due to forced-air heating systems, leading to dry air.
Dry air is often the source of many ailments, including dry skin, itchy eyes, scratchy throats, blocked nasal passages, elevated sinus infections, cracked lips, and even damage to wooden floors or furniture.
Humidifiers are an excellent way to add moisture into the air and maintain the optimal humidity level ranging between 25% to 55%. Humidifiers improve air quality and alleviate dry air symptoms. One of the oldest types of humidifying method is adding moisture into the air using natural evaporation principles;
a pot or jar of water is placed in the room to allow the moisture to evaporate into the air to relieve dryness naturally. Even today, evaporation is one of the most popular methods used by humidifiers.
An evaporative humidifier uses a fan to distribute moisture-rich air into the room to relieve dry air symptoms. A fan sucks in the air that goes through a moist wick filter at the humidifier’s base, filtering out minerals and other impurities in the process. As the water evaporates into vapor, it pushes out as water mist or sprays into the air entirely pure, clean, and free of any minerals or impurities. Evaporative humidifiers are bulkier in appearance, as they contain filters, fans, and fillable tanks. They are considered the safest type of humidifier due to their self-regulating system, eliminating the risk of over-humidification. Most wick filters need replacing around two months, although some models have cleanable, reusable wick filters.
Evaporative Humidifiers Categories
Evaporative humidifiers can be classified into two categories. The first type uses a porous filter or wick to soak up water and distribute it through fans. Instead of wicks, the second type of humidifier uses rotating discs made of toughened plastic and is submerged in the water reservoir. Once the discs start rotating, the evaporated air is circulated in the room with a fan’s help, which throws the air at the discs. These discs can be removed from the device and cleaned and don’t need replacement.
Evaporative Humidifiers can also be combined with an HVAC system. In this process, the water is turned to vapor via a water panel in the HVAC system.
Things to Consider While Buying an Evaporative Humidifier
Coverage: Ensure that the humidifier can cover the intended use of place – whether it is the living room, bedroom, or your entire home.
Warranty: Before investing in a humidifier, consider the type and duration of the warranty offered with the unit. Different kinds of warranties include parts replacement, unit repair, unit replacement, etc.
Noise: Since evaporative humidifiers use a fan to circulate air, they make varying noise levels, especially at medium/high fan speeds. Some humidifiers make a bubbling sound as the water drops into the machine. Getting a relatively noiseless humidifier can lead to a peaceful home environment and a good night’s sleep.
Tank Capacity: The greater the tank volume (gallons), the greater the coverage area and the number of hours per filling.
Ease of Use, Setup & Maintenance: Evaporative humidifiers come with replaceable germ-free wick-filters to reduce bacteria and mold growth. These filters’ longevity can be enhanced by regular inversion or switching wicks: soaking and thoroughly drying a wick before reuse.
Energy Efficiency: Evaporative units do not consume a large amount of electricity
Overflow Protection: Some evaporative humidifiers have an automatic shutoff, that may help during leakage or malfunction.
Automatic Settings: Most evaporative humidifiers will operate at the selected fan speed until they reach the desired humidity levels. Some units are also equipped with a dry mode where the machine will run on the low fan until the wick is dry.
Water Tank Capacity: Humidifiers are available in varying tank capacities and should be considered based on the frequency of use and size of the space. If a humidifier is required to run all night long, it is advisable to invest in a humidifier with a large tank capacity, necessitating fewer refills. However, the bigger size will entail the use of more space and also impact the budget.
Care and Maintenance: As with all electrical appliances, humidifiers need care and maintenance to maintain the machine’s efficiency and effectiveness.
Since the evaporative humidifiers hold water, it can become a breeding ground for dust mites, mold, and bacteria, released into the air if the humidifier is not cleaned or maintained correctly. Clean the humidifier regularly, including the tank. After each use, drain the remaining water from the tank before adding clean water. You can wash the tank with mild soap and a soft cloth to remove any residue. Most manufacturers recommend thoroughly cleaning the humidifier once a week with white vinegar and bleach. For safety purposes, though, it’s essential to rinse the humidifier parts after bleaching so that you don’t end up inhaling any harmful chemicals.
If you use tap or hard water in the humidifier, it can coat the inside of the tank and make it cloudy, as the water contains minerals and/or sediments. Add white vinegar to warm water to descale the humidifier and remove any mineral deposits in the water tank and other parts of the humidifier. Wipe the tank with a soft cloth to help remove any build-up.
Check the humidifier filter frequently, replace it if it gets crusty, slimy, or have mold or mildew growth signs. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on changing the filter. Some recommend monthly, while others every two to three months.
Replacing the Wick Filter
The wick filter removes impurities and prevents minerals from being spread into the room. If left unchecked for long periods, wick filters can become breeding grounds for bacteria and mold or mineral build-up, leading to clogging, which will impede the humidifier performance, which may lead the humidifier to use up more energy and burn out quickly. Depending on the use, wick filters can last anywhere from 1 month to 3 months. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation to ensure its effectiveness.
Watch your machine’s humidity output, a humidifier with a dirty wick will work slowly even on the highest setting. It will take longer to empty the tank than expected. Some wick filters can be washed under running water and then soaking in a mixture of water and white vinegar for 30 minutes. If the humidifier is still not performing efficiently, you should consider replacing it.
Best Evaporative Humidifiers for Large Rooms
1. Vornado Evap40 4-Gallon Evaporative Humidifier
The Vornado Evap40 evaporative humidifier can provide uniform humidification in areas up to 1,000 sq. ft, thanks to its deep-pitched blades that pull large volumes of dry air through two humidifying filters and circulate the humidified air using Vornado’s signature Vortex Action.
Assembled in the USA, the Vornado Evap40 comes with a built-in comes with intelligent humidification that senses the current humidity levels and automatically makes adjustments to maintain your ideal environment. The whole room humidifier is equipped with a large capacity 4-gallon tank that provides up to 4-gallons of water output in 24 hours when operated continuously on high, allowing for long, uninterrupted operation and fewer refills.
The Vornado Evap40 comes with an easy-to-use control panel that allows you to select your fan speed (low/750 RPM, medium/1150 RPM, or high/1600 RPM) and your desired humidity level using the humidistat dial. The whole room humidifier is low on maintenance with its spill-proof and leak-free removable tanks that are easy to clean and refill. The Evap40 comes with a
Five-year limited warranty (for use only in the USA). The Vornado Evap40 is built to meet U. S. voltage requirements and is also safety-tested. Manufacture does not recommend using gasoline, thinners, solvents, or other chemicals for cleaning. Humidifier components are not dishwasher safe.
Pros
- Extra Large Tank
- Two Humidifying filters
- Quiet Operation
- Five-year warranty
- Powerful Airflow
Cons
- The hygrometer does not have any markings printed.
- The Tank is a bit difficult to clean and refill
- Wick elements are expensive.
Why Buy: With a powerful fan and thoughtful design, the Vornado Evap40 whole room humidifier is highly efficient and is capable of humidifying large spaces. Its extra-large capacity ensures that it does not have to refill it more than once every other day.
2. AIRCARE Nutmeg Digital Style Whole House Pedestal Evaporative Humidifier
The AIRCARE Whole House Digital Pedestal Humidifiers adds healthy moisture and elegance to your home. The evaporative cool mist humidifier boasts a 7.4-gallon daily output for rooms up to 2,400 square feet. The humidifier resembles a piece of furniture to display in your living room and can be used as a dual-purpose end table. Since the device’s vents are located on the side of the pedestal, you can place a few books, a flower vase, or a figurine on the top, and no one will know it’s a humidifier.
The AIRCARE pedestal humidifier comes with an accessible front fill pour-in design that simplifies filling the 3.5-gallon reservoir with easy-roll casters. The unit comes with a refill reminder that will flash F on the display panel when the unit is out of water. This whole house humidifier also features a digital humidistat that automatically maintains your desired humidity level with digital accuracy. Featuring nine speeds, the Aircare machine gives you variable speed control to suit your ideal performance level.
The Home Decor Series features a natural tile insert, which serves as a decorative base. The tile can be replaced with any standard 12-inch x 12-inch tile to match your room’s décor. The device features digital controls with an optional remote that allow you to adjust the humidity level easily between 25% and 65% in 5% increments. The humidifier runs continuously when the humidity is set at 65%. The device also boasts an Auto Shut Off that automatically shuts off the machine once it reaches the desired humidity level or when the unit is empty.
This unit takes the guesswork out of maintenance from a large water tank to the front fill reservoir.
Featuring a 3.5-gallon water tank, time-saving controls, and available in multiple colors, the AIRCARE EP9 Series Whole House Digital Pedestal Humidifier is ideal for whole-house humidification in areas up to 2,400 square feet.
Pros
- Digital Humidistat
- 3.5-Gallon Water Tank
- Available in Multiple Finishes
- Aesthetically pleasing design
- Quiet operation
- Highly portable
Cons
- Some users found the coverage to be a little less than advertised
- Expensive
Why Buy: Featuring a 3.5-gallon water tank, time-saving controls, the AIRCARE EP9 Series pedestal Humidifier is ideal for whole-house humidification. The sleek appliance could pass for an end table, plus it’s easy to set up and operates so quietly you may wonder if it’s even running.
3. OPOLAR Evaporative Humidifier
The Opolar evaporative humidifier comes with a 3-liter water tank that can work continuously up to 17 hours, and its output of 300 ml/h makes it perfectly suitable for rooms of up to 600 sq. ft. The updated design and new materials of the evaporative humidifier’s filters can trap all the mineral deposits, dust, and other tap water impurities. The device features a humidity light indicator that will intelligently detect the humidity level and turn the atmosphere light accordingly.
The Opolar evaporative humidifier is equipped with advanced noise-reduction technology that promises peaceful sleep in a comfortable environment, making less than 45dB noise. The Opolar humidifier comes with a built-in sensitive humidity sensor detector that can automatically adjust the suitable humidity. If the humidity is below 50%, it will run at a lower speed; otherwise, it will operate at a high speed.
Featuring a convenient top-fill design, the Opolar evaporative humidifier comes with a timer set for 1h/2h/4h/8h, and the humidifier will automatically turn off after that period. The humidifier will automatically turn off if it runs out of water, ensuring safety and preventing the machine’s damage. The filters can be easily removed and cleaned. The manufacturer recommends changing the filters every 4-6 months for the most effective result.
Pros
- Feature Rich
- Quiet Operation
- Very easy to fill
- Humidity level indicator
- Easy to clean filters
Cons
- Expensive Proprietary filters
Why Buy: Aesthetical design, quiet running, easy to use and refill, humidity and tank fill, and no more floppy, flimsy filters; sleek lines. Look no further than the Opolar humidifier.
4. Stadler Form O-021 OSKAR Evaporative Cool Mistless Humidifier
Blending art, functionality, and ease, the Stadler Form O-021 OSKAR is a mistless evaporative humidifier. The machine has an output of 2.4 gallons per day and can humidify the air in rooms up to 540 square feet. The economical evaporator enables precise humidification thanks to its hygrostat. Unlike most humidifiers, Oskar has extremely low fan noise and no “glugging sound” from the water tank, and the machine switches off automatically when the tank is empty.
Designed by Swiss artist Matti Walker, the Oskar humidifier comes with an essential oil compartment to add relaxing fragrances and aroma while humidifying the air. Oskar’s evaporative, mistless technology acts as an air moisturizer that can refresh and renew your skin. The Oskar provides optimal humidity with the least possible energy consumption and includes an Ionic Silver Cube to keep the water clean and two high-performance wicks.
Oskar’s contemporary design with a water level window and side pour-in door allow refilling the tank during operation with a pitcher or watering can. The device features a digital control panel that will enable you to control the integrated hygrostat, output levels, and LED night-light intensity with a touch of a button. The Oskar humidifier comes with a filter change reminder that alerts you to change the filter. The humidifier comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty.
Pros
- Near silent
- No white dust
- Ability to completely turn off the LED lights.
- Easy side fill
Cons
- Requires removing many parts with screwdrivers to clean
- The paper filters need to be changed frequently.
- Replacement filters are expensive
Why Buy: Apart from improving air quality, Oskar’s sleek and modern design looks great anywhere. A set and forget unit, the humidifier is quiet, stylish, very simple to set up, easy to fill, and does the job quietly. Highly recommended!
5. NOMA 4L Evaporative Humidifier
The Noma 4 liter evaporative humidifier can continuously operate for 24 hours continuously and fill a large space up to 380 sq. ft. The machine features adjustable mist level and humidistat with three-speed settings with a 360-degree vapor outlet, seamlessly adjusting the humidifier to your desired level of comfort. When your chosen level is reached, your humidifier will go into “standby mode” until the sensor notes your room’s humidity has dropped, at which time it will resume until the desired percentage has been reached.
Featuring an easily removable cap and a top fill design, the Noma humidifier is simple to re-fill. At 40 dB, this humidifier runs quieter than the library. The built-in automatic shut off sensor means you can run your unit all night long without any worries. You can also use timed shut-off options to set humidifying time for 2, 4, or 8 hours.
The NOMA humidifier features “Secret-Until-Lit” technology that makes control panel lights clear and bright when on and invisible when off, creating a beautiful streamlined design. The control panel lights are also dimmable for evenings and night time. The Noma humidifier comes with one ion exchange filter, making it easier to clean. The device comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty.
Pros
- Whisper Quiet Operation
- Easy to fill
- Auto shutdown
- Dimmable lights
Cons
- Expensive
Why Buy: The NOMA Evaporative Humidifier seamlessly blends superior form and functionality and maintains humidity effectively. It’s ideal for large spaces, while it is easy to maintain, fill, and keep clean. Integrated controls and lights keep it looking sleek and modern while providing the ultimate ease of use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why are evaporative humidifiers so loud?
A. Evaporative humidifiers generate a fair amount of noise as they use internal fans to generate airflow and blow moisture into the air.
Q. Why Does the Wick filter become discolored, hard, and crusty?
A. As the wick evaporates, water, minerals, and other impurities in the water get left behind; it leads to wick filters to become discolored and crusty over time.
Q. What type of water can I use with my humidifier?
A. While tap water is more accessible and affordable, it is ideal to use distilled water in the humidifier. It contains lower mineral content and other pollutants than tap water that can create mineral deposits inside the machine. Using tap water for evaporative humidifiers shortens the wick filter’s lifespan, causing it to become inefficient. If you want to use tap water to operate the machine with tap water, consider adding a demineralization cartridge.
Q. Where should I place my humidifier?
A. Humidifiers should be placed above ground level and out of reach of any children. Humidifiers should be kept on surfaces that don’t get ruined by water.