A humidifier is a common device found in many homes. As the name implies, the primary function of a humidifier is to increase humidity in a space by emitting moisture (in the form of water vapor or steam) into the air.
However, because increased moisture and humidity often provide an ideal breeding for mold and mildew, a lot of people wonder if humidifiers actually cause mold growth in the home.
The answer? Not if you are smart about using them. Read on for some quick tips and best practices for using a humidifier.
The benefits of using a humidifier
Why even use a humidifier in the first place? Great question. Using a humidifier actually offers a handful of key benefits. These include:
Allergy relief
During the fall and winter months, the air is cold and dry, which can sap moisture from the skin and leave your throat and sinuses feeling raw. A humidifier provides much-needed moisture, and may offer relief for those with dry skin, colds, or allergy symptoms.
Better sleep
Because they add moisture to the indoor air, humidifiers may also help you sleep easier at night. Snoring is often reduced because the added humidity helps to lubricate the nasal passages and throat for a more comfortable slumber.
Improved health
Finally, studies show that certain viruses, including influenza, thrive in environments with lower humidity levels, so humidifiers are often recommended during cold and flu season to safeguard health and wellness.
Simple tips for using home humidifiers
As helpful as they may be, it is important to use your humidifier correctly and think about where to place it in your home for the greatest benefit—and to avoid unwanted mold growth. Follow these simple tips to safeguard your health as well as your indoor air quality.
1. Match the humidifier to the room size.
Bigger isn’t always better, especially if you are trying to increase the humidity in a smaller bedroom or nursery; if the moisture levels get too high, that is when you run the risk of contributing to mold growth. Likewise, a tiny humidifier may not be enough to raise the moisture levels in a spacious living room. Do your research and read the manufacturer guidelines to make sure you get the right size humidifier for your space.
2. Be smart about location.
You want to avoid placing your humidifier on a rug or carpet, as this can also lead to unwanted mold growth. If the room has wall-to-wall carpeting, you may want to purchase a humidifier tray or floor mat to catch any falling moisture. (These are fairly inexpensive and easy to find online or in stores.)
In addition, keep your humidifier away from any electronic equipment and electrical outlets, as well as your wooden furniture. Finally, make sure the humidifier is far enough away from heating vents and/or radiators to avoid overcompensation.
3. Clean your humidifier regularly.
A good rule of thumb is to clean your humidifier every week, although some experts recommend doing this every three days.
The simple process involves unplugging the device, emptying the water tank, and cleaning and disinfecting the components, typically with a distilled white vinegar solution. For humidifiers that use filters, be sure to change them at least once a year, and ideally every six months.
4. Use the right type of water.
It is important to use only purified or distilled water in your humidifier. This helps to prevent mineral buildup (since regular tap water generally has a high mineral content) and reduces the risk of mold and mildew as well as bacteria growth. With the right type of water, you can also avoid any unpleasant smells coming from your device.
5. Keep track of humidity levels.
A hygrometer is a helpful tool for monitoring indoor humidity levels. If you use a humidifier regularly, it may be worth purchasing a hygrometer to keep track of the humidity in your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor relative humidity should be kept below 60% and ideally between 30% and 50% to prevent mold growth.
If mold growth happens, give us a call.
Being cautious about mold growth doesn’t mean you have to give up the comfort that your home humidifier provides. Simply follow the tips above to ensure your home environment stays comfortable and your mold risk remains minimal.
If you do spot mold indoors, be sure to act quickly to avoid bigger problems down the line. Mold grows rapidly under the right conditions and can affect your health and the health of your family and pets.
Call CT Mold Pros today at (203) 920-0265 for a free estimate or fill out this short form with your message to schedule an appointment. Our mold remediation specialists are the best in the business, and we are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of conduct for every client we serve.
