The winter season forces you to insulate to the maximum: heating is turned on, various heaters are additionally used. During this period, you can feel how difficult it is to breathe, the skin dries out, a dry nose appears, and viruses and allergies seem to be waiting for this - they immediately cling to all family members. These are all symptoms of dry air. Negative manifestations can be fought with the help of regular wet cleaning, watering indoor plants, and airing the house.
And in order to achieve maximum efficiency, it is advisable to acquire two simple instruments: a hydrometer to determine the current room humidity and an air humidifier. As soon as the hydrometer shows that the humidity level is low, start the humidifier and you can easily get rid of the problems listed above.
On a note! The norm of air humidity in the room is in the range of 45-60%. If there are children in the house, it is advisable to keep the mark at the level of 50-55%. A more accurate indicator of comfortable humidity in the room is determined by personal feelings.
The humidifier helps to create a pleasant and comfortable indoor climate by supplying microscopic particles of moisture to the air.
How to choose the right humidifier will be discussed later.
Devices for normalizing humidity differ in the principle of operation and the set of available functions, therefore the choice of a humidifier should start with a comparison of their technical characteristics, advantages and, possibly, disadvantages.
Is air humidification required: when and where?
The decision to decrease or increase humidity is not made based solely on one's own feelings. In the sultry summer, a large volume of liquid evaporates from the surface of the skin, the human body requires water, consciousness begins to paint pictures with a cool pool, soda, beer. The result is predictable - we turn on a household humidifier, which is simply unacceptable.
The only effective way to fight germs and improve the microclimate at home is to install a humidifier.
Humidity and heat inflict a huge blow on the human body, the effect is comparable to being in a bath.
The best marker is a hygrometer. A compact device that displays the exact value of the relative humidity.
The amount of pure oxygen is reduced when:
- working household electrical appliances (vacuum cleaners, microwave ovens, irons, computers, etc.), "drying" the air in the apartment;
- hot radiators of the heating system;
- new concrete covering that absorbs moisture.
Enterprises of various fields need air humidification: from the food industry, crop and livestock complexes to enterprises
The humidifier should be installed in offices, work areas and living rooms where people stay for a long time. In such places, the humidity does not exceed 45%, while for a person the value is considered optimal at a level of up to 60%.
Ways to increase indoor humidity
Water humidifies the air during evaporation, therefore, its volume must be large enough. How else can you achieve a similar effect?
- Hang up all rooms in the house with wet towels.
- Dry laundry directly in the room.
- Using regular wet cleaning.
- Filling the surrounding space with flowers, flowerpots.
- Arranging saucers of water on the radiators.
- Fountains, aquariums, "water" decor are the most affordable types of air humidifiers that can fill the interior with an atmosphere of tranquility.
- Do not close the bathroom door.
High performance, simplicity of design and reasonable cost are the fundamental factors of steam humidifiers.
But if you don't want to bring disharmony into the apartment, it is better to use a humidifier, since such a device is inexpensive.
Oxygen deficiency is undesirable and even dangerous for humans, but the microclimate improves without any problems. How to choose the right humidifier? Let's dwell on the advantages and disadvantages of climatic devices.
How to choose a humidifier for an apartment correctly?
Experts emphasize that water evaporation differs in different devices. There are several types of humidifiers:
- ultrasonic;
- cold steam;
- steam.
How to choose a humidifier for an apartment: tips and tricks
Now you know what humidifiers are, but the principle of their work is significantly different. Let's consider them in more detail specifying both the "pros" and "cons".
Ultrasonic devices
Most experts are unanimous in their opinion: an ultrasonic device is the best humidifier for home. The surrounding space is literally irrigated with a cloud of the smallest particles of water. The crushing of the liquid occurs with ultrasound. The device has a place for replaceable cartridges.
Many users report that even the best indoor humidifiers leave fine white particles on the surface of furniture and clothing. It is a sediment of water salts. How to use a humidifier correctly? - Carefully read the operating instructions and fill the device with distilled water only.
Ultrasonic humidifiers are considered the best on the market
The device has a number of advantages:
- running units are quiet;
- exceptional safety - it is impossible to burn yourself with hot steam;
- many household air humidifiers boast an air ionization function;
- even at low power, high performance is ensured.
Modern types of air humidifiers notify the user about the need to replace the cartridge, they are able to adjust the irrigation intensity. The information is shown on a small display. The systems operate in both manual and automatic modes.
Cold steam devices
A home air humidifier is characterized by the absence of heating elements. The design has an antibacterial cleaning system, while the filter is immersed in water only partially. There is also a fan, with the help of which the air mass is driven, followed by humidification and cooling.
Air humidifiers with cold steam are ideal for use in city apartments, country houses and cottages
The principle of operation of the humidifier is designed in such a way that the cleaning cartridges must be changed regularly at the frequency specified by the manufacturer. The device requires soft or distilled water, otherwise you will have to buy filters more often.
Steam Appliances
The steam unit is a fairly good humidifier that works like a conventional kettle. When functioning, it creates a "gurgling" sound. The humidifier works like a boiler: the water heats up to a high temperature, after which evaporation occurs and the surrounding space is saturated with small particles of water.
If you use the steam unit, it should be placed out of the reach of children.
Evaporation of water is the basis of the operation of the device. Two electrodes located inside the water heats up, and it evaporates, and the air, accordingly, is humidified
The advantages of the devices are obvious:
- due to high productivity, the concentration of moisture rises rapidly;
- work without filters;
- unwanted impurities and salt particles remain in the evaporator itself, without covering the surrounding space with a white coating.
Confused by the choice of the right "teapot"? - Take a closer look at models with a hygrometer.
Best steam humidifiers (hot steam humidification)
Steam humidifiers are considered the best in terms of power. The principle of their work is the evaporation of water under the action of electrodes immersed in water. When a current is passed through the electrodes, the liquid begins to boil and evaporate. If traditional humidifiers are referred to as "cold" type, then steam can be referred to as "hot".
The main advantage of such devices is their high efficiency, rapid improvement of the microclimate and the removal of harmful bacteria. But the disadvantages include low security. Hot steam can easily burn yourself, so it is recommended to install the devices out of the reach of children.
What characteristics deserve attention?
What characteristics are taken into account when choosing climatic devices? Experts strongly recommend paying attention to 3 main parameters.
What characteristics should be considered when choosing a humidifier for home
How to choose a humidifier by performance level
The choice of a humidifier begins with an assessment of the performance of the climatic device. This parameter is expressed in the volume of liquid (in mm) that turns into steam in 60 minutes of operation. Manufacturers indicate not only the indicated value, but also the area of the room that the device is capable of servicing.
Performance chart of air humidifiers from popular manufacturers
How to choose? - We select models that can effectively irrigate a specific area of the room. One device is designed to work in one room, not the whole house.
Obviously, you need to decide what the humidifier will be used for. If we are talking about maintaining the microclimate in a small room with an area of 16 m2, then it makes no sense to purchase an expensive unit, the performance of which is enough for 70 m2. Where to put the humidifier? - Any free space, but not on the floor. The optimal zone is in the middle of the room.
Power
The power of the device is closely related to its performance. Intensive work means higher energy consumption. What is the best device to buy? Steam models must be abandoned initially, since their power can reach up to 500 watts. With 12 hours of operation, electricity bills will increase decently.
The higher the capacity of the humidifier, the more electricity it consumes
Which humidifier consumes a small amount of electricity with good power? In this context, ultrasonic and cold models of climatic devices are out of competition - their power ranges from 25 to 100 W.
Noise
The acoustic perception of how a device works in a store has nothing to do with functioning in a small room. And where the device seems almost silent, it can turn into an irritant in the living space. The situation is aggravated if the humidifier has to work not only during the day, but also at night.
Noise during operation of a humidifier is one of the main criteria when choosing a household climatic device.
For the bedroom, the best devices are ultrasonic ones, which are also the quietest ones in principle.
How much noise can the device make without causing acoustic discomfort? We will proceed from the fact that for the best air humidifiers an acceptable level is 40 dB, and a comfortable level is not higher than 34 dB.
Air washers
A mechanical air purifier simultaneously performs the function of humidification, which is why these units are popularly called "air washers". Their main drawback is their relatively high price.But a long service life, excellent technical indicators and a large list of available functions fully justify the high cost.
There are standard sinks, and there are climatic complexes.
They consist of a system of filters that capture microscopic dust particles, allergens, they humidify, ionize the air. Some models can also remove static electricity, which is important for rooms where many household appliances are used. The device is capable of heating or cooling water, achieving an ideal comfortable microclimate in the room.
Particulate matter, or "PM," falls into 3 main categories:
- PM10: All particles 0.1 to 10 μm
- PM2.5: All particles from 0.1 to 2.5 μm
- PM1: All particles from 0.1 to 1 μm
Of course, the smaller the particle, the more dangerous it is for our health. Therefore, we need to pay more attention to the categories, PM2.5 and PM1, that are able to reach our lungs.
The main functions and technologies used by the climate complex:
- The PM2.5 Particle Control function is able to reduce the amount of airborne particles such as: mold, pollen, allergens (dust mites), tobacco smoke odors, formaldehydes, nitrogen oxides, dust, yellow sand with a size of 0.1-2.5 microns by 99%. FROM
- Streamer technology. This technology uses a "streamer discharge" - a type of plasma discharge that is generated inside an air purifier and consists of high-energy electrons with a high oxidizing capacity. This discharge quickly removes odors.
- Plasma active ion technology. They act on harmful microorganisms, suppressing their vital activity. Ions are released into the air and bind with components in the air, forming active compounds with a strong oxidizing ability, which destroys harmful substances in the air.
Basically, air washers are equipped with electronic control, different operating modes. All operational difficulties come down to the need to change the water and periodically rinse the filters or change the cartridges.
Benefits
- Simple and fast service;
- Many operating modes;
- Low noise level;
- Effective humidification and high-quality air purification.
Disadvantage: Washing the air is the most expensive option.
Interesting! After installing a mechanical humidifier / purifier in the room, it becomes easier for asthmatics to breathe, and allergic reactions disappear. People with cardiovascular disease feel better.
How to choose a humidifier, which humidifier to choose?
Having asked a logical question, one should be guided first of all by what a humidifier is needed for at home. If you need a productive and affordable device, then steam and traditional solutions are out of competition. Ultrasonic units that combine several functions are somewhat more expensive: liquid heating, hygrometer, LCD display.
The humidifier can be used all year round and is especially suitable for people with allergies
Are you deciding why you need a humidifier in your apartment? Consider that this device can not only normalize the microclimate, but also eliminate unpleasant odors.
And if there are no difficulties with how to use a humidifier, then a huge number of torments and doubts are associated with the choice. To level them, we recommend taking a closer look at the rating of the best air humidifiers presented below.
TOP 5 - rating of the best air humidifiers in 2020
Having distanced ourselves from general tips and tricks, let's move on to specific devices on the domestic market. So, the rating of air humidifiers in 2020: only the best, high-quality and efficient models.
Ballu UHB-240 Disney
Ballu UHB-240 Disney is one of the best ultrasonic humidifiers on the market.
Before us is one of the best devices available to customers. The advantages of the unit: rich functionality, good humidification, quiet operation, adjustable blade speed, backlight, variable intensity of vaporization.
How much does such a device cost - no wonder, but its price does not exceed $ 50.
Specifications:
- type - ultrasonic;
- service area - no more than 20 m2;
- power - 18-20 W;
- control - mechanical;
- the tank is designed for 1.5 liters;
- average liquid consumption - up to 180 ml / hour.
Buyers are satisfied with the use of this climatic device. The only drawback is the lack of ionization.
Bionaire CM-1 is a remarkable device in terms of price and quality ratio
Bionaire CM-1
Answering the question, which humidifiers are better, many ordinary people say - steam devices. If we approach the issue from the point of view of the ratio of performance and power, then the Bionaire CM-1 model is beyond competition. Inside this device, steam is mixed with cold oxygen, which eliminates the likelihood of burns.
A definite plus is the possibility of filling in untreated water. The frequency of water change is 8 hours. If you use the accessory regularly, then you cannot do without buying a hygrometer. Bottom line: we have before us a reliable and functional device, one of the best in terms of price and quality.
Specifications:
- type - steam;
- service area - up to 17 m2;
- power - 180 W;
- control - mechanical;
- the tank is designed for 2.25 liters;
- weight - up to 1.2 kg;
- average liquid consumption - up to 190 ml / hour.
Considering the available devices for exhausting air to choose the price of up to $ 35, we recommend that you take a closer look at the Bionaire CM-1. Remember, the model does not work with aroma cartridges, and there is no oxygen ionization function.
Atmos 2630
Atmos 2630 - an affordable model of an ultrasonic humidifier of domestic production
The principle of operation of this humidifier is based on ultrasonic atomization of liquid. Distinctive features of Atmos 2630 are lightness, compactness, original visual concept, as well as an affordable price. How do I use the device? - Just install it in the room and it will automatically maintain the set humidity level in the room.
Specifications:
- type - ultrasonic device;
- service area - up to 30 m2;
- power - 25 W;
- control - mechanical;
- the tank is designed for 2.25 liters;
- weight - up to 0.8 kg;
- average liquid consumption - up to 280 ml / hour;
- price - $ 40.
Winia AWX-70
Winia AWX-70 - modern and functional climatic complex with humidification function
We present to your attention not an ordinary humidifier, but a modern climate complex capable of maintaining a comfortable atmosphere not in one room, but in the whole apartment. The device boasts an integrated hygrostat, air purification function, ionization, as well as an adjustable speed of rotation of the fan blades.
The opinion of a specialist - is the winia awx-70 air ionizer suitable for odor elimination for a bedridden patient? Each case is individual, but in general, the power and functionality of this model is sufficient to eliminate odors, which is very important in the case of bedridden patients.
Setting up the Winia AWX-70 is easy, and the system does not make any noise during operation. The main disadvantages are floor placement, significant weight and dimensions, and a high price.
Specifications:
- type - traditional;
- service area - up to 50 m2;
- power - 24 W;
- control - electronic;
- the tank is designed for 9 liters;
- weight - 10 kg;
- average liquid consumption - up to 700 ml / hour;
- price - $ 265.
HOME-ELEMENT HE-HF-1701
Many of our compatriots, answering the question of how to choose a humidifier, claim that they are guided mainly by the beauty and visual style of the device.In addition to its great looks, it also boasts quiet operation. One refueling is enough to work for 12 hours. There is an automatic notification about the shortage of water in the tank.
Specifications:
- type - ultrasonic;
- service area - up to 20 m2;
- power - 35 W;
- control - mechanical;
- the tank is designed for 4 liters;
- weight - 1.2 kg;
- average liquid consumption - up to 300 ml / hour;
- price - $ 65.
What else to look for when choosing a humidifier?
To choose the right humidifier, start from the specific situation: family budget, room features, dryness and air pollution. These factors will help you focus on the features you really need and save where you can. When choosing, also pay attention to:
- The ability to automatically turn on and off the device, maintain the desired humidity level;
- The volume of the water tank. It determines how often you have to add liquid to the container and how long the humidifier will be able to operate without interruption. However, the smaller the tank, the more mobile and compact the device;
- Device performance. Calculate the volume of the room, and compare with the throughput of the selected model. It is desirable that the device can process all the air in the room at least 2 times per hour.
- A humidifier with a remote control would be a nice plus.
- A humidifier with a hygrostat will automatically maintain the humidity level in the room.
- Night mode in the humidifier - indicates the presence of backlight.
Also consider the cost of consumables, if needed. Before buying, read the reviews of users of those models that you liked. This will make a list of what you like and choose what works best.
And if you have any questions, be sure to contact our Vencon online store of engineering solutions and our experts will select the most profitable, economical and comfortable solutions for your home.
