FAQs

We've answered some commonly asked questions to help you learn more about how humidifiers work.

How Long Does a Humidifier Last?

Room humidifiers typically last three to five years, while whole-house units can last eight to 15 years. The lifespan depends on quality, usage frequency and maintenance. If you want your humidifier to last, invest in a high-quality model, change the water daily and regularly clean it using distilled water. If you notice reduced moisture output, frequent breakdowns, unusual noises or visible damage, it may be time to replace your humidifier. 

What Does a Humidifier Do?

Humidifiers add moisture to the air to prevent dryness that can cause irritation in many parts of the body. The added moisture helps relieve dry skin, nose, throat and lips while easing cold and flu symptoms in cold months. It can also soothe irritation and reduce inflammation in your airways from dry, cold air. Humid air can feel warmer than dry air, which is invaluable if you live in an area with severe winters. Humidifiers also protect wooden furniture and floors from cracking due to dry air.

How Does a Humidifier Work?

Humidifiers increase moisture by forcing water vapor mist into the air, but different kinds use different mechanisms. Evaporative humidifiers use a fan to blow air through a damp filter, causing water to evaporate naturally. Ultrasonic humidifiers use high-frequency sound vibrations to break water into droplets that are propelled into the air. A warm mist humidifier works by boiling water and emitting purified steam. Impeller humidifiers use rotating disks to create water droplets that lift into the air as cool fog. If you install a whole-house system, it connects to your HVAC and automatically controls humidity levels throughout your home. The water reservoir feeds the mechanism, which transforms liquid water into vapor through evaporation, vibration or heating, before dispensing it into your living space.