There are many benefits to getting a home humidifier unit. Like all appliances, there are safety measures that come with using one. In this article, we’ll discuss the best practices when it comes to maintaining a house humidifier, keeping it in tip-top shape, and avoiding accidents and diseases that come from misuse.
Home Humidifier | Best Practices and Maintenance
Safety Tip #1: Daily Cleaning
It’s time to change your furnace filter, turn off, drain and clean your humidifier as Summer weather moves in.
? Charlie Wong (@wrong0ne) May 18, 2017
A dirty home humidifier unit is a breeding ground for disease-causing bacteria and molds. It’s important to clean your home humidifier after each use. To clean your unit:
- Throw away the remaining water.
- Separate the tank and the base.
- Remove the water tray and filter.
- Check every part of mineral deposits or other mold growth.
- If you see minerals or mold, deep clean the unit.
Safety Tip #2: Give it a Weekly Deep Clean
Deep cleaning is important to ensure the absence of dirt and molds in your unit. This is also necessary prior to storing the unit after each use. To deep clean a home humidifier unit, you’ll need vinegar and an old toothbrush. Remember: strong, undiluted chemicals may damage your unit, so make sure you only use natural cleaning products.
- Throw away the remaining water.
- Pour 3 cups of vinegar in the tank and let it sit for an hour.
- After an hour, use the old toothbrush to scrub it clean.
- Do the same for all the washable parts of the unit (except the filter).
- Rinse with water until the scent of vinegar disappears.
- Wash the filter with clean, distilled water.
- Rinse the unit with 3% hydrogen peroxide.
Every unit is different, so make sure to refer to your unit’s instruction manual for specifications.
Safety Tip #3: Keep the Filters Clean
Change your filters when necessary. Some units employ a disposable filter, so make sure you replace yours as instructed. If your unit comes with a built-in filter, make sure you check it for mineral deposits or mold growth after every use. Don’t forget to clean your home humidifier unit’s filter at least once a week.
Safety Tip# 4: Unplug!
Warm mist humidifiers generate heat, so if you’re planning on using it in a room with children, make sure the child does not touch the home humidifier unit. Electronics that are plugged in are fire hazards, so make sure you unplug the unit after use.
Safety Tip #5: Using Distilled Water
Tap water has minerals blended into it, so it’s best to use clean, distilled water. A thin white film of dust sometimes covers the room after humidifying, and some attribute this to minerals in tap water.?Mineral deposits in the unit may promote bacteria growth, so to avoid it, use only distilled H20 in your unit.
Safety Tip #6: Be Cautious of the Humidity Level
It’s important to choose the right humidifier for the size of your room and to always be cautious of the room’s humidity level. Too much moisture can cause condensation on the walls resulting in mold and mildew growth. If you can, get a unit that has a built-in hygrometer so you can keep humidity in check. Knowing all the features and safety requirements of your humidifier allows you to make the most out of it, so don’t forget to read the manual.
Safety Tip #7: How to Store Your Humidifier
Learn how to clean your humidifier for storage at http://t.co/JrrgOEpH
? Gettum Associates (@GettumRemodel) April 15, 2012
Depending on where you live, there are some parts of the year when you just don’t need a humidifier. Before storing your unit, make sure to give it a deep clean and dry it completely. Then, place it in a cool, dry place. Leave the tank cap partially open, and do not leave a used filter in the unit.
How do you choose the best humidifier for you and your family’s needs? Watch the dads of DadLabs discuss the things you should consider before getting your own unit:
As you enjoy your new home humidifier unit, don’t forget to clean it, keep the filters clean (or new), use distilled water, and stow it properly. These best practices ensure you make the most out of your purchase!
Do you own a home humidifier unit? How long has it been with you? Do you have some Home Humidifier Safety Tips you can also share with us? Share your thoughts in the comments box below.
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