Humidifiers
By Kenton Shepard
Humidifiers
Humidifiers are mostly used in dry climates. Excessively dry air causes dry skin and mucous membranes.
A humidifier raises humidity levels in the home by adding moisture vapor to air in the ducts. Just as humid air in the Southern U.S. makes people feel hotter, raising home humidity allows the heating system temperature to be lowered without sacrificing comfort… raising humidity levels in the home make it feel warmer, even though the actual temperature stays the same.
Condensate
Condensation is a by-product of humidifying air. The process of condensation produces condensate, which must be disposed of properly, by routing it to a drain or to the exterior. Proper disposal methods vary with jurisdiction. Most systems require a pump.
Humidistat
Humidity levels are controlled by a humidistat, typically (but not always) located near the humidifier
Source: Kenton Shepard
A common sight in dry climates. A humidifier is mounted above the (high-efficiency) furnace cabinet. The condensate pump is the blue box on the floor to the left of the furnace (it’s leaking).
Source: Kenton Shepard
A closer view of the humidifier and humidistat
Measuring humidity levels
Measuring humidity levels at various areas of the home can help expose moisture problems and help inspectors develop an understanding typical levels. Typical levels will vary widely with different climate zones. $20 buys an instrument (photo below) which will measure humidity and temperature.
Areas to measure…
- outdoors
- home interior
- basement
- crawlspace
- attic
Source: Kenton Shepard
Hygrometers measure humidity, thermometers measure temperature. This instrument uses one sensor and shows both.
Humidifiers are typically disclaimed by home inspectors as a specialist inspection. |
