Tips For Finding The Perfect Place For Your Humidifier

Where you decide to set up a humidifier will be significantly influenced by what you need the humidifier to do for you as well as who it's for, notes Geniani. The size of the humidifier you choose is a critical part of ensuring its success. So, before you even consider where to put the unit, be sure you're purchasing one that is suitable for your space. For example, humidifiers will have a rating letting you know for what size room they work best. As Geniani explains, a humidifier that's too small won't make enough humidity to do you any good, while a humidifier that's too large for a space could cause harm from too much residual moisture, leading to mold on the walls or water damage to hardwood floors. 

Additionally, there are different types of humidifiers. When deciding on cool mist versus warm mist humidifiers, the choice is really up to you and your preference. However, if you're looking to use a humidifier in a room for a baby or small child, Geniani recommends that you go with the cool mist option. Warm mist units have to boil the water, and this extreme heat could potentially harm young children if they get too curious.

To find the best placement for your humidifier, consider where you need the humidity the most. For example, does your new baby or toddler need it in their bedroom? Do you want to find a spot where the whole family could benefit? Or are you trying to improve your sleep? The answers to these questions will help you find the best location to run the unit.

One thing to keep in mind is that the humidifier won't do you much good if the moisture it produces doesn't get distributed throughout the house. Therefore, HVAC Training Shop recommends setting up yours in a space with sufficient air circulation. Just try to avoid placing it close to wall art, as the mist could cause damage. If you opt for an ultrasonic model, HVAC Training Shop says to place it as high as you safely can in order to help the mist distribute into the air. A spot with good airflow might also be in the center of the room. Often this is where air moves the most, whether by a fan on the ceiling or by people walking and moving through the space.

If love greenery, a humidifier may also improve the health of your beautiful house plants. Many species like a higher humidity level than is available within our homes, according to Houseplants Corner. So cluster your moisture-loving houseplants around the humidifier and watch them flourish!

Humidifiers are fantastic assets to have within the home. However, as with any home device, they don't come without their dangers. First and foremost, per Learn Metrics HVAC Systems, do not place humidifiers anywhere near outlets. Water and electricity are a bad match, and this combination could cause severe and dangerous problems. Similarly, avoid any electronics when situating your humidifier as well. Learn Metrics adds that items like computers, charging stations, and outlet strips can be damaged from excessive moisture when kept too close to humidifiers.

Additionally, avoid putting a humidifier near couches, beds, or carpets where the moisture could collect over time and cause mold growth (via Geniani). This will have the opposite effect you're hoping for and could even result in you or your family getting sick or experiencing worsening respiratory issues.

Lastly, don't put a humidifier on the floor or in a corner. Learn Metrics notes there is little to no airflow in these locations, and you'll likely see minimal benefits. It's also where the humidity will collect around the humidifier and again cause mold or ruin the items nearby.