Air humidifiers: types, principle of operation, selection and operation

Every year more and more technology people use in everyday life. The same humidifiers seem to cease to be an absolute exotic. But you need to know how they work, what advantages they have, how to choose and use such a technique.

A humidifier is used to increase the humidity in the air in the house. But this is necessary for a reason. The main function of the device is to make breathing easier. Sometimes, without adding water to the air, no ventilation, fans, air conditioners and ozonizers help to improve the microclimate. Dry air leads to:

• frequent coughing and sneezing for no apparent reason;
• increased frequency of colds and other respiratory diseases;
• the appearance or aggravation of asthma;
• accelerated aging of the skin and mucous membranes;
• dry eye syndrome;
• headaches.

If you use a high-quality humidifier, then this gives a fairly reliable protection of the respiratory system from a number of harmful microorganisms and dust. An increase in air humidity also saves from stuffiness, which is so common in apartment buildings in summer and at the beginning of the heating season. But the benefits of a moisturizer don't stop there. Some models are capable of extremely accurate setting of humidity levels and other valuable air parameters. Therefore, it is guaranteed that optimal conditions of the home environment are maintained.

It's worth noting that according to many reviews, moisturizers actually help promote health and reduce the likelihood of disease. Even with allergies, when danger literally threatens from everywhere, washing out pathological agents from the air reduces the risk of an attack. If it does happen, it will be much less pronounced and last less. But this does not mean that moisturizers are valuable only for allergy sufferers and parents of young children.

Devices that increase the humidity of the air can themselves serve as a decoration for a living space. Many of them are equipped with LEDs or simply have a graceful geometric shape. However, humidity is important not only for humans. Lack of water can suffer:

• furniture;
• books;
• Appliances;
• clothing and footwear;
• decorative plants.

First, you need to figure out how a humidifier differs from a purifier. Both of these devices are aimed at improving the quality of the atmosphere in the house, but they operate in fundamentally different ways. A humidification system is primarily designed to increase the level of humidity - and if it works this way, then this is already considered enough. In this way, even overdrying of the air due to central heating can be successfully dealt with. In the process of humidification, a significant part is simultaneously eliminated:

• dust;
• dust mites;
• pollen and other allergens;
• microbes and viruses.

The next important point is how the humidifier itself works and what is its principle of action. Regardless of the specific design and method of propagation of water vapor, such devices are not limited to simple evaporation at room temperature. Rather, this method can also be used, but only in the most simple models. Their productivity is relatively low, and it is impossible to regulate the evaporation rate. More advanced devices use various physical effects. Therefore, in addition to the water tank, there is always a power supply, control electronics and some other parts.

It has already been said above that the use of humidifiers is good for health. But in reality, everything is not so simple - such devices must be used thoughtfully and carefully. Even the same amount of water vapor can affect people in different ways. It is necessary to take into account both age and occupation, and the state of health of people, and the climate in the region. Central heating can heat the air up to 21-24 degrees. If it is also moistened, then not an easy and free atmosphere can be created, but, on the contrary, an oppressive atmosphere that causes real harm to health. If the humidity level exceeds 80% and above, children and people with weakened immunity can get sore throat. It is better that this indicator does not exceed 60-70%, which means the need to carefully monitor the operation of the device. No matter what the manufacturers promise, “turn on the device and forget about the difficulties” will definitely not work. But with proper use, you can significantly reduce the danger:

• pharyngitis;
• otitis media;
• laryngitis;
• sinusitis;
• pneumonia;
• allergic attacks;
• premature appearance of wrinkles;
• feeling of dryness and tightness of the skin;
• drying of indoor flowers;
• drying books and photographs, drying cabinets and other furniture.

These are traditional humidifiers. They work very simply: there is a certain porous material saturated with water. Moisture evaporates from its surface. An air jet is passed through the material for greater efficiency. Such systems are cheap as they do not require additional sensors or special instruments. The simplified design reduces the risk of breakage.

An important feature of steam humidifiers is that absolutely any water can be used in them. Even the one that is taken from the tap and is not intended for drinking. Their principle of operation is approximately the same as that of an electric kettle. Periodic elementary cleaning, which does not cause any problems, helps to cope with scale and other deposits. The ability to do without replacement cartridges provides additional cost savings and makes everyday life easier as well.

You do not need to be a great connoisseur of modern technology to get exactly the result you want from a steam humidifier. The device can evaporate 0.6-0.7 liters of water in 60 minutes. Therefore, the improvement of the microclimate even in a large room is easy and natural. You can easily combine moisturizing with spraying aromatic oils and other beneficial substances. In modern designs, automation is provided that stops the operation of the device when water boils off.

A characteristic feature of air washers is that they combine the functions of a humidifier and a purifier. In addition, they can even replace some other devices. The manufacturers of such equipment promise that it will protect against:

• desiccation of air;
• dust;
• tobacco smoke;
• hairs;
• unpleasant and too intrusive odors.

It should be noted that most air humidifiers-air purifiers increase the humidity only up to 60%. This plank was not chosen in vain: if the value is higher, wooden furniture may suffer, and mold may also appear. It must be understood that a device of this type cannot run silently. It emits about the same sound as the PC system unit.This device will not help out a greenhouse with tropical crops, where the humidity should be at least 70%.

A characteristic feature of these household appliances is that they operate without the use of any heaters. Water evaporates due to the effect of high frequency sound vibrations that are not directly perceived by humans. At the same time, their intensity is too low to cause any harm to health. Systems operating on ultrasound are much more demanding on the quality of "raw materials" than their steam counterparts. It is better to use filtered, and ideally distilled water, then the "cold fog" generator will work better.

In some cases, a nozzle type of air humidifiers is used. It works in much the same way as an ultrasound machine. However, you will have to very carefully select the air flow in order for the system to operate as efficiently as possible. Nozzle systems are very complex and expensive. They can be made separate from ventilation (but then the sound will be an inevitable companion during operation). Complexes connected with ventilation work quieter, but the air consumption increases, and therefore its scrupulous, objective calculation becomes critical.

The channel built-in type, which is combined with ventilation systems, also occupies its niche. Sometimes such equipment is even combined with air heating systems. The air entering the humidifier is first saturated with water, and only then is discharged into the ventilation duct. As a result, the atmosphere in the house is very quickly and efficiently refreshed. It makes it easier to maintain strictly specified parameters of the air environment. In any of the above categories, there may be plumbing models that do not require any additional effort to replenish the evaporator tank water. But if in everyday life this innovation only simplifies life, then in industrial enterprises, in offices and in large trading floors, it is simply irreplaceable.

Outdoor moisturizing complexes deserve a separate discussion. Usually they are characterized by increased power (water consumption is no longer hundreds of grams, but liters per hour). There are also models with a hygrometer that allow you to quickly and most adequately assess the level of humidity in the room. Thanks to him, you can use the device exactly when there is an urgent need for it.

If automatic devices are used, then there is almost no need to somehow direct the actions of technology. It usually comes down to fine tuning it, then you can enjoy the enhanced ambience effortlessly. But a bubble humidifier cannot be found at home or in an apartment. It increases the humidity not of pure air, but of oxygen, and is used only for medical purposes. Only trained professionals should use such devices!

Returning to home moisturizing equipment, you must definitely pay attention to the way it is installed in the home. Desktop devices can be conveniently placed not only on tables, cabinets, but also on shelves. If the room is large, a large, floor-standing humidifier is best. It will feature high performance and is guaranteed to tidy up the atmosphere. Tabletop and wall-mounted appliances, on the other hand, are best suited for small spaces. But wall-mounted humidifiers have another advantage - they distribute humidified air masses from bottom to top.

Much depends on the additional options that are implemented in the humidifiers by the developers. If the device is supplemented with a humidity regulator, it will automatically maintain the required intensity of moisture release. The need to constantly and scrupulously monitor the parameters of the equipment will disappear. As for ultrasonic atomization, it is achieved thanks to the emitter based on piezoelectric ceramics. When an electrical impulse is applied to the emitter, vibration starts at a very high frequency.

This frequency is always equal to that of the emitted ultrasound. Having accelerated, the emitter begins to emit such pulses, which simply break the water mass into separate particles, which will be blown out by the fan. Already such a description allows you to point out critical points:

• frequency of ultrasonic vibrations;
• mains supply parameters;
• parameters of the channel through which the water mist comes out;
• the amount of water evaporated.

But in many cases, simple evaporation is not enough and a warm steam regime is required. Such a program allows you to eliminate dangerous microorganisms for which water is a favorable habitat. However, one must take into account the danger of "warm" steam for the nasal passages and other mucous membranes; this mode is impractical to choose if the humidifier will be located near a bed, desk or computer desk. In addition, you will have to limit yourself to the use of strictly distilled water. But the night mode is even very useful - it allows you to ensure peace and quiet in the house during your rest.

• Among the products by Dyson there are also humidifiers. Rather, one device is the AM10 model. Its notable feature is the implementation of the fan function. The manufacturer claims that this device is capable of eliminating up to 99.9% of microorganisms in water. The branded product warranty is 2 years. The water spray radius is 360 degrees. The improved quality of disinfection is achieved using the Ultraviolet Cleanse technology. And one more proprietary development Air Multiplier allows you to guarantee an even distribution of the evaporated mass throughout the room. The official description mentions that this device can automatically adjust to current environmental conditions and is certified for use by allergy-prone individuals. An attractive feature of this humidifier is the minimum noise level during its operation. The device can be controlled remotely using the remote control.

• The top of the best options also includes a well-known one for many other types of technology. Dexp brand... An example of its humidifiers is the ultrasonic model J-22. A regular 1.8 liter tank is enough for 6 hours of continuous operation. With this humidifier, it will be possible to improve the state of the atmosphere on an area of ​​30 sq. m. The device should only be placed on a table or shelf. The hourly current consumption is 0.025 kW. No water addition function is provided. If necessary, you can reduce the rate of evaporation of moisture, there is no ozonation option.

• The rating of the best brands deservedly includes products by Carel... This Italian manufacturer has specialized in HVAC equipment for about 4 decades. During this time, a number of models of isothermal and adiabatic performance have been created. There are also designs with immersed electrodes. An example of the latter is the CompactSteam series, intended for luxury private homes and commercial organizations.

• Of the ultrasound devices, attention is drawn to itself Carel humiSonic compact series... The oscillation frequency is about 1.65 million per second. The graphical terminal is simple and convenient. There are 2 models in this series: with a capacity of 0.5 and 1 liter.The first option is suitable for integration into fan coil units, while the second one is universal.

• Xiaomi Smartmi Air Humidifier / Humidifier-2 can be used in conjunction with sensors that determine the characteristics of the environment. The traditional wet filter has been replaced by a drum with hydrophilic discs inside. The device can hardly be called miniature, but still it is smaller than the products of competitors. When unpacking such a new device, a rather strong odor will appear. It smells like a branded coating, but soon the unpleasant sensations will pass by themselves.

• Noteworthy and moisturizing products from by Proffi... She appeared in the spring of 2014. The PH8785 is compact and uses ultrasonic stimulation. The aromatization function is provided, as well as the night light mode. With this stylish unit, you can humidify the air in a room of 20 square meters. m. The capacity of the tank is 0.2 liters. The controls can be understood even at an intuitive level. Thanks to the ability to receive power from the USB port, you can humidify the air directly at the workplace. The device weighs 0.17 kg. Power - 0.4 kW.

• Scoole also produces excellent moisturizing systems. Feature models SC HR UL is an atypical form. The designers have provided an opportunity to increase productivity up to 0.38 liters per hour. In this case, the tank holds 2 liters of water. If the water is exhausted, the automatics will turn off the device. The steam release can be controlled smoothly and gradually. Silent operation has also been implemented. The indicator light has 2 main modes. The current consumption is 0.025 kW. The mass of the humidifier is 0.74 kg.

Among the air washers of this manufacturer, the AW 01 (W) can be distinguished. Its uniqueness lies in the presence of 3 additional modes - actually increasing the humidity, saturating the air with pleasant aromas and graceful lighting. Filling in water from above is very simple and easy. The design concept embodies the spirit of the classics. The engineers have provided for the use of the best materials.

• Rovus "Arctic" Is also a pretty attractive model. It does not use freons. The device operates quickly and without unnecessary noise. There are 3 modes. There is an option to get energy from laptops and even from mobile devices. Along with humidification, the air is also cooled during operation of this equipment. There is no need to make any settings. To get started, you just need to pour water into a special container. Outwardly, "Arctic" looks restrained. It was specially made with the expectation of easy entry into the ultra-modern design.

• Hyundai Is another company engaged in the production of climatic technology. The HU12M version is equipped with a solid (4 l) water reservoir. Mechanical controls are simple and reliable. Steam output can be adjusted smoothly. A side window is provided to control the amount of water in the tank. The sleep timer is designed for 12 hours. The maximum time for continuous operation is 13 hours. The flow of dampening steam is 360-degree adjustable. The water tank was equipped with a comfortable handle. This reservoir is illuminated from the inside, and a silent operation is also provided during a night's rest.

• From series Mirabilis it is worth choosing the HU5E model. Its characteristics are as follows:

1. tank capacity - 3 liters;
2. off timer - 1-12 hours;
3. management is completely transferred to the electronic base;
4. an automatic stop is provided when the water runs out;
5. hourly fluid output - 0.25 l;
6. switching to night mode;
7. automatic dimming of the screen;
8. total weight (excluding water) 20 kg.

• Technique can also help to cope with dryness in the house. under the Supra brand... Model has SAWC-130 the tank capacity is 8 liters and the electricity consumption is 0.01 kW. In 60 minutes, 0.23 liters of water is consumed. The ionization mode is provided.

• Products are also suitable to improve the atmosphere in the home. under the Tefal brand... First of all, we are talking about an ultrasound machine HD5120... The manufacturer promises that the gray moisturizing complex will provide optimal conditions in the room and will work without interruption for up to 18 hours. The built-in reservoir contains 5.5 liters of water. In 60 minutes, 0.32 liters of liquid will be consumed. These parameters are considered sufficient to optimize the atmosphere over an area of ​​45 sq. m. In addition to the standard automatic mode, it provides for work in the children's room and operation at night.

Even with the most active use, the sound volume will not exceed 40 dB. And the amount of current consumption will be 0.11 kW. The body is made of high quality plastic. An internal hygrometer gives you the ultimate control over your home environment. The designers have taken care of a special cartridge designed to suppress the formation of scale. Since the control of the device is organized on the basis of electronic elements, the use of a liquid crystal screen turned out to be a quite logical step. If necessary, the automation will stop work and thereby eliminate possible risks. A power-on indicator was also provided. The reliable timer is designed for 9 hours. There is also a liquid level indicator.

• But fans will also find an attractive solution. Sinbo... We are talking about the ultrasonic model SAH 6117. The total power of the device is 0.025 kW. It delivers liquid outside from a 2 liter container. There are options with white and gray colors.

• Kambrook Is another company supplying modern air humidifiers. The KHF400 occupies a decent position in the market. This device is equipped with an informative screen. The designers have implemented reliable touch control. A hygrometer is also provided for reliable control of humidity in the room.

Regimes play an important role in practice Turbo and Away From Home... The option of warm steam has also been implemented. The capacity of the water tank reaches 5 liters, so the humidifier will perform its task up to 10 hours. The proprietary cartridge, present in the delivery set, eliminates the appearance of an unpleasant white coating and prevents water contamination by bacteria and viruses. The humidifier is designed for rooms up to 25 m2 (with a ceiling height of 2.6 m). The fluid reservoir can be removed. The control is carried out on the basis of purely mechanical elements. There is only one mode of operation, but it is very well thought out. The selected work power is indicated by a special indicator.

• Connoisseurs Sharp brand will find humidifiers in its assortment. The KC-D61RW climate complex simultaneously cleans the air and ionizes it. The developers have provided for the use of a particularly efficient filter of the Hepa standard. After its application, no more than 0.03% of dust particles remain. The control system is designed for maximum energy savings.

• Special Plasmacluster technology is designed to effectively cope with bacterial and viral air contamination. The dust sensor, curiously, is connected to humidity and temperature detectors. Air pollution levels are indicated on a color scale. The moisture indicator is measured with an error of no more than 1%. Air flows are distributed as efficiently as possible thanks to an improved algorithm.

Such a proprietary development as the "ion rain" mode is curious. With its help, harmful and dangerous impurities are eliminated as efficiently as possible. Along with these threats, static electricity is reliably trapped in house dust. The device is designed for rooms up to 48 sq. m area. Options such as adjustable blinds, timer, fan speed control, and the presence of a condensation filter are useful.

The climatic complex can be considered as an alternative. KC-G61RW... The level of air purification from microorganisms is the same as that of the previous model. But the undoubted advantage is a special intellectual program. It allows you to use 7 sensors that detect dust, humidity, light and even motion. Of course, there is also a dust sensor. Built-in miniature wheels make it easy to move around the room.

• Complete a review of brands worth on products Deerma concern, more precisely, on models Water Humidifier DEM-SJS600... The manufacturer claims that the device will leave a maximum of 0.01% contamination. Water is disinfected using ultraviolet lamps. Additional cleaning is carried out in a carbon tank.

Experienced people strongly advise to purchase a room weather station before choosing a humidifier for both home and industrial or office premises. It will show you what are the parameters of the air in a particular place and how difficult the goals of the humidifier are. The costs for it will be relatively low, and room meteorological equipment will come in handy more than once. With its help, it will be possible to monitor the quality of operation of humidifiers and other climatic equipment. Measurements should be made at least 4-5 days in a row to exclude the impact of random factors.

It must be borne in mind that in the summer and winter months, the state of the atmosphere in the home can vary greatly. If there are fears that the humidity may rise excessively, you need to choose a traditional type of climate device. When using the effect of natural evaporation, overmoistening of the air is impossible. There are no known toxic fumes and various radiation. However, this device can be neither powerful nor silent due to the principle of its operation. Another disadvantage will be the inability to quickly humidify the air. This combination of properties makes it possible to recommend classic humidifiers for children's rooms, bedrooms and recreation areas. Such devices are unsuitable for greenhouses.

After choosing a specific type of device, the next step is to determine the required performance and estimate the area to be serviced. Of course, the more water evaporates per unit of time, the larger the serviced area will be. But you should not chase the increased performance either - due to the objective difficulties of air exchange between rooms, the device will qualitatively humidify only one room.

The next important point is the installed filters and their properties. The pre-filter provides only general technical water treatment. He is unable to cope with substances that provoke allergies, and with microorganisms. The electrostatic installation is able to remove pollen, rather fine dust. She will cope even if the room is full of smoke. But organic pollution and a number of gaseous toxins will still overcome the electrostatic barrier.

A plasma filter does not differ from an electrostatic filter in terms of the scope of tasks being solved. But on the other hand, it acts 10 times faster. And yet, only Hera standard filters are suitable for high-quality cleaning. It is with such filters that a climatic humidifying and purifying complex should be equipped. If they are not provided, then the manufacturer hopes for technical illiteracy of buyers.

It is equally important how long the humidifier will work as intended without interruption. This figure is obtained by dividing the capacity of the water tank by the hourly consumption of the evaporated liquid. You will have to prioritize right away: some people are more important than performance, while others are more important than the increased autonomy of the device. As for loudness, for people with a particularly acute perception of noise, you need to choose models up to a maximum of 35 dB. If there are no special personal requirements, you can focus on the standard hygienic norm - 50 dB.

The dampening technique should be placed on level, flat surfaces. The distance from furniture, even those resistant to moisture ingress, is at least 0.3 m. There must be at least 1 m of free space before any electrical appliance. It is necessary to look for a free approach to the system from any side. It is also recommended:

• place the humidifier not directly on the floor, but on a small elevation;
• do not put it on a shelf with books, near documents;
• keep the humidifier at least 0.3 m away from the battery;
• all devices, except for steam, should be brought closer to the plants.

Of course, the instructions from the manufacturer give the most detailed instructions. She will also indicate what exactly needs to be added for the smell, how and in what quantity. But in any case, humidifiers should not be turned on with an open window or outdoors outdoors. It is categorically unacceptable to leave the devices with children, pets unsupervised. It is best to fill them with water that has been previously passed through a filter. Only a few modifications are designed for simple tap water without upgrading. And for them, filtering will not be superfluous. Do not pour any foreign liquid inside the humidifier. It is also impossible to keep them near open fire, very hot or very cold objects.

In order for the humidifier to work stably, it must be regularly cleaned of dust. Cleaning and flushing should be carried out in full accordance with the instructions of the technical data sheet. For washing use:

• boiled or distilled water;
• pieces of soft matter;
• a toothbrush or special brush.

For information on how to choose the right humidifier, see the next video.