The principle of operation and purpose of the humidifier

A comfortable indoor climate is a balance of temperature and humidity. The first indicator depends on the season and the operation of the heating devices. To maintain the optimum humidity level, the apartment is ventilated or humidifiers are used.

Air humidity standards

Indoor air always contains moisture particles in the form of water vapor. Their concentration depends on temperature, season, type of room. Indicators are established based on research results. Deviation to the smaller side causes drying out of the mucous membranes, skin and hair. Exceeding the norm is also harmful, excess moisture is manifested by condensation on the walls. Dampness leads to the formation of mold, which threatens the health of apartment residents.

Humidity rates vary depending on the season:

• winter - optimal 45-60%, permissible 65%;
• summer - recommended 30-45%, allowable 60%.

The microclimate affects not only humans, but also plants and surrounding objects. Optimum moisture standards have also been developed for them:

• indoor flowers - 50-70%;
• office equipment - 45-60%;
• papers, books - 40-60%;
• furniture - 40-60%.

The relative humidity in the room is measured using special devices - hygrometers. For clarity, their scale is divided into sectors showing comfortable, low or high values ​​of the parameter.

Danger of dry air

If the moisture level in the air drops below 30%, the person feels discomfort. There is a feeling of dry mouth, cough, nasal congestion. The skin of the face, hands and body suffers from a lack of moisture, and the hair becomes brittle. A person feels itching and discomfort, the skin ages faster. There is a lot of dust in the room. Viruses and allergens multiply rapidly and attack the weakened body. Children are especially sensitive to low humidity. They are more likely to get sick, become lethargic and lethargic.

Problems arise not only with health. Wooden furniture and parquet floors quickly lose their natural moisture levels. The boards dry up, emitting a characteristic creak. A humidifier will help solve the problem. The device operates automatically, saturating the surrounding space with water vapor.

How a humidifier works

You can improve the microclimate with an indoor fountain or a large aquarium. The methods are effective, but require high financial costs and care. Climatic equipment will be cheaper, and its operation does not require much effort.

All devices work on the principle of converting water into a vapor state. Then the finely dispersed suspension enters the room, mixing with air masses. The process takes place cyclically until the humidity level reaches the recommended norm.

Instrument selection rules

Before buying climatic equipment, it is important to determine the basic parameters. Main criteria:

1. The volume of the room. The power of the device depends on it; for small rooms, a household humidifier is sufficient.
2. Machine type.Climate technology performs one function. But it acts on different principles. There are several types of humidifiers: steam, traditional, ultrasonic. Models have their merits and demerits, which are studied in advance.
3. Tank capacity. The volume of liquid to be poured affects the duration of the device operation. The larger it is, the less often you will have to fill it.
4. Additional functions. Devices with advanced capabilities are on sale, including a built-in hygrometer, a low-noise motor, a timer, touch control, installation of cartridges of various types.

Climatic devices must have an automatic shutdown function after the entire volume of liquid has evaporated. It will ensure operational safety.

When choosing, it should be borne in mind that a built-in hygrometer or hygrostat is not always a plus of the model. Its sensors measure the humidity around the device, where the air is most saturated with steam. The device turns off without fully completing its functions. In this case, it is worth installing a fan next to it, creating forced circulation.

Types of humidifiers and their characteristics

The operation of various types of climatic equipment gives the same effect - the achievement of the optimal level of humidity in the room. There are 3 main types of devices: hot or cold humidifiers and ultrasound models.

Traditional

The climatic apparatus is of the simplest design. It consists of a body, a tank and a pan with water, a float block, and a cartridge or replaceable element made of hygroscopic material. The devices operate on the principle of natural air humidification. A built-in fan blows air through the humidified cartridge. Simultaneously with saturation with water, the air is cleared of dust particles.

Pluses of models:

• cold steam is safe;
• no electricity consumption (16-60 watts depending on the model);
• it is possible to use tap water;
• low noise level;
• affordable cost.

Disadvantages:

• low productivity;
• frequent replacement of paper inserts.

The optimum moisture content is automatically maintained. When the maximum 60% is reached, work stops. It is recommended to install the device near heating radiators and other heat sources.

Steam

Water is poured inside the device, which is brought to a boil by heating elements. Hot steam quickly increases the humidity in the room, raising the temperature by 2-3 ° C. Climatic equipment is simple in design and does not have filters for air purification. The destruction of bacteria and microbes occurs by heating the liquid to 100 ° C. The devices are characterized by high performance and are capable of raising the humidity level to 70-80%.

Pros:

• budgetary cost;
• high power;
• there are no restrictions on the maximum moisture;
• the device can be used as an inhaler.

Minuses:

• increased power consumption;
• risk of burns.

The appliance can increase the humidity in the house above the desired value. To prevent this situation, you should choose a model with a built-in hygrometer. The sensor will turn off the device after reaching the normal humidity level.

Ultrasonic

The most technologically advanced climatic technology has a special membrane with a high vibration frequency in its design. The principle of operation of an ultrasonic air humidifier is to break water particles into tiny droplets. The fan blows air through the formed fog. As a result, moisture enters the room. A filter installed in the housing traps dust particles, improving the overall air condition.

Pros:

• minimum electricity consumption;
• the ability to quickly change the performance of the device;
• safety;
• lack of noise;
• models with advanced functionality purify and ionize the air.

Minus - the use of untreated water leads to the ingress of microbes in the liquid into the air.

The devices are equipped with liquid level sensors and hygrometers. When all the water evaporates or when the set humidity value is reached, they are automatically turned off.

The benefits and harms of a humidifier

Adults and children suffer from dry air in the house. The use of climatic technology helps maintain a favorable microclimate. Models with additional functions are used for air purification, ionization and aromatization. Adequate moisture contributes to increased immunity and performance. The devices are indispensable for the cultivation of exotic plants that require a high level of humidity. They are installed not only in apartments, but also in greenhouses and greenhouses.

Cons of the device

The harm from climatic technology appears only when it is used incorrectly or when buying low-quality models. Most often, problems arise with steam appliances. The hot jet can damage furniture, wallpaper or burn skin. To avoid unpleasant situations, you should install the device according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Do I need a device in winter

In winter, when the heating season begins, dry air becomes a real problem. Hot radiators and other heating devices reduce the percentage of moisture. Such a microclimate is harmful to human health, negatively affects plants, furniture, books. Ventilation partially solves the problem, but the low temperature does not allow it to be done often. Sealed plastic windows and round-the-clock heating by batteries contribute to the creation of a dangerous indoor climate.

It is in the winter that the use of climatic technology is relevant. To improve the well-being of patients with acute respiratory viral infections and other diseases of the respiratory tract, as well as for preventive purposes, doctors advise using air humidifiers.

Instructions for use

Before turning on the device, you must read the instructions. The manufacturer gives recommendations on the quality of the water to be poured, the parameters of the power network.

• The use of purified liquid allows you to change filters less often, protects structural elements from scale and limescale formation.
• After the humidifier has finished working, drain the remaining water. It increases the number of bacteria that, when turned on again, will enter the air.
• It is advisable to dry the device between uses.
• Do not install it near walls, furniture, on a smooth or unstable surface.

If the device falls during operation, it is immediately disconnected from the power supply.

Features of models and additional functions

Popular among traditional humidifiers Boneco E2441... There is an antibacterial filter inside the device to increase humidity and purify the air. To disinfect water, a silver rod is installed, designed for a year of operation. The device operates in two modes. At minimum power, the low noise level allows it to be used at night or in children's rooms. The set includes a container for fragrances.

Ultrasonic humidifier Tefal Aqua Perfect HD5230 is made in a stylish black case with an LCD display. The touch panel allows you to easily adjust the power of the steam supply, switch the device to night mode. The humidifier nozzle can be rotated 360 ° towards the desired direction. An additional function is warm steam, which has an antibacterial effect. The device operates with minimal noise levels and is equipped with a built-in hygrometer. The capacious reservoir is designed for 30 hours of operation.

Steam humidifier Boneco S450 with a productivity of 550 g / h, it is able to improve the microclimate in a room with an area of ​​up to 60 sq. m. The model can be used for inhalation with drugs and aromatherapy. The procedures are useful in treating diseases of the upper respiratory tract, they strengthen the immune system. The device has a LED display with touch control. Equipped with a three-level security system, the operation of the device is simple and reliable.

Place for a humidifier

In order for the device to be of maximum benefit, it is necessary to choose the right location for its placement. Heavy air, saturated with steam, quickly sinks down; to avoid this, use a stand in the form of a shelf or stool. Installation height parameters are:

• minimum - 50 cm;
• maximum - 100 cm.

Large devices with a capacity of about 9 liters do not require a stand, so they are placed on the floor. They can be placed close to the battery. In this case, warm air masses will be saturated with moisture and distributed throughout the room.

The humidifier should not be directed at wallpaper, upholstered furniture or cabinetry. An excellent choice of a shelf with indoor plants that need a humid microclimate. Distance from the outlet is an important factor. After all, the device operates on electric current. When installing a humidifier in a children's room, parents should take care of safety. The device is placed out of the reach of the child.

Creating a comfortable microclimate in a room is a concern for the health and well-being of family members. The use of any type of humidifier will help to avoid diseases, preserve the beauty and youth of the skin.