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How Does a Whole-House Humidifier Work?

A whole-house humidifier is a very effective installation to help with comfort during the winter. There is often much less moisture in the air during this season (furnaces often contribute to drying out the air), and that adds an unpleasant edge to low temperatures because it makes it easier for heat to escape from the human body. Low humidity also contributes to dry, chapped skin, an increase in the ease of how illness moves from person to person, and a spike in annoying static electricity.

Small room humidifiers work on a basic principle of heating water and releasing steam. Whole-house humidifiers work a bit differently—and also much better.

The Whole-House Humidifier

These humidifiers are integrated into the HVAC system, where they introduce extra water vapor into the airflow from the furnace or heat pump. The humidifier takes a supply of water from a pipe attached to the nearest freshwater line. This water is then distributed over a wide pad to give it the most surface area possible. As air passes through the humidifier chamber, it absorbs the water from the pad and its humidity level rises.

The remaining water in the pad drips down into a pan, and a drain then removes the water into the drain. However, some particles may be left behind in the pad, so you should arrange for regular maintenance to clean or replace it.

A device called a humidistat controls the humidifier. It works much the same way as a thermostat: you put in a setting for the humidity level you want (40% to 50% is a good target area) and the humidistat will automatically turn the humidifier on and off as appropriate to maintain a comfortable relative humidity level for your house.

Call Premier Indoor Comfort Systems LLC if you’re interested in the installation of a whole-house humidifier, or if you require service for one. We serve Roswell, GA and all of Metro Atlanta and Western North Carolina.

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