Get rid of dry air without the distribution of bacteria, harmful molds, or other airborne pathogens. These are the 10 best whole house humidifiers of 2023 that will bring comfort to your home.
There are a variety of reasons that you might end up with dry air in your home – whether you live in a desert area, have the heating system turned on too much, or have a tendency to run the air conditioning more than normal during the winter months.
To avoid dry skin, cracked lips, and sore throats in the winter months, it’s important that your home is kept well-humidified. If you’re having trouble sleeping at night or your skin is flaking off in the morning, a whole-house humidifier might be just the solution you need to improve your overall health and wellness.
Finding the best whole-house humidifier is not an easy job for both newbies and experienced users. It is because humidifiers are multifunctional appliances that are used for humidifying and can be applied in the treatment of many disorders. There are many different types of humidifiers in both cool mist and warm mist.
Here we have listed the 10 best whole house humidifiers of 2023 that can fix your noise levels. Furthermore, they have the best service life, ease of use, energy efficiency, maintenance cost, and available space for storage.
What Is A Whole House Humidifier?
A whole-house humidifier is a device that adds moisture to the air in a home to increase the humidity level. It is typically installed as part of the home’s heating and cooling system and can be set to maintain a specific humidity level in the home.
There are several types of whole-house humidifiers, including:
Evaporative humidifiers: These humidifiers use a wick, belt, or filter to absorb water and a fan to blow air through the wet material, releasing moisture into the air.
Steam humidifiers: These humidifiers use electricity to boil water and release steam into the air.
Ultrasonic humidifiers: These humidifiers use high-frequency vibrations to create a fine mist that is released into the air.
Impeller humidifiers: These humidifiers use a spinning disk to fling water droplets into the air.
What Are The Benefits Of A Whole House Humidifier?
A whole-house humidifier can offer several benefits, including:
Improved air quality: Humidity helps to purify the air by trapping allergens and pollutants, reducing breathing problems, and improving air quality.
Enhanced comfort: Dry air can make the environment feel colder and can cause dry skin, chapped lips, and other discomforts. Particularly during the winter, adding moisture to the air can make the environment more comfortable.
Protection for wood and other materials: Low humidity can cause wood to become dry and brittle, leading to cracks and other damage. A whole house humidifier can help to maintain a proper humidity level and protect the wood and other materials from damage.
Energy savings: Maintaining a proper humidity level can help to reduce the amount of energy needed to heat or cool a home, as the air will feel more comfortable at a lower temperature.
Improved sleep: Dry air can cause nasal congestion and make it difficult to sleep. A whole house humidifier can help to alleviate these issues and promote a more comfortable sleep environment.
Overall, a whole-house humidifier can help to improve air quality, enhance comfort, protect materials, save energy, and improve sleep, making it an important addition to any home.
Humidifier Buying Guide 2023
Humidifiers are an amazing tool in the fight against dry skin, colds, and allergies, or just to help you sleep better. But it can be hard sifting through the advertisements and reviews when trying to pick one. We’ve put together a buyer’s guide for anyone who thinks they might need a humidifier in their home.
Two main types of whole-house humidifiers can fix this problem:
1. Built-in & Ducted Humidifiers:
Built-in or ducted humidifiers are systems that are either built into or ducted with the heating and air conditioning system in your home. These types of HVAC humidifiers are ideal for all seasons, but most work best in winter months when humidity tends to drop in most homes.
The main advantage of a ducted HVAC system is that it keeps heat from escaping throughout your house. This is because heated air produced by the furnace is released into the ducts.
2. Console Humidifiers:
The console type of whole-home humidifier can humidify an entire home. It requires an electrical outlet and some installation but is still portable. This makes it the only type of humidifier capable of humidifying an entire home without permanent installation. Console humidifiers are typically larger than whole-house humidifiers, but they are designed to be moved even though they are attached to an electrical outlet.
Which one is better: Console or Ducted?
Ducted humidifiers are installed in your furnace’s duct system, while console humidifiers can be placed on a table, desk, or floor. The biggest difference between the two options is that you will always know how much humidity is added to each room with a ducted system, but this isn’t always possible with console humidifiers.
A ducted humidifier installs in a central location inside a home, and ductwork directs the moist air to all house rooms. Ductless models, also called console humidifiers, generally humidify homes measuring up to 3,000 square feet.
Both types of humidifiers have their own advantages and disadvantages. So you can decide which one you should pick, according to your budget and requirements.
1. AIRCARE Digital Whole-House Pedestal-Style Evaporative Humidifier
The AIRCARE Digital Whole-House Pedestal-Style Evaporative Humidifier is one of the best and most effective protection for your home against all dry air problems. This AIRCARE humidifier is the best one on the market because it is cost-effective, provides continuous relief from dryness, is easy to use, eliminates excessive maintenance, is easy to move, is energy-efficient, and so so so much more!
AIRCARE Digital Pedestal Evaporative Humidifier is a great way of reducing air pollution in your home. It is an affordable product featuring evaporative technology it assists in replenishing moisture in the home’s air. It can help eliminate mineral deposits on the heating systems. The installation of this device does not need any professional assistance.
The AIRCARE Digital Whole-House Pedestal-Style Evaporative Humidifier is the perfect humidifying solution for less than 2,000 square feet of homes. The included built-in digital humidity control easily affixes to your furnace wall, allowing you to improve your indoor air quality by adding moisture to the dry, heated air in your home. Collections available – Match or mix and match with any other AIRCARE model.
The humidifier is engineered for maximum efficiency, and the AIRCARE Digital Whole-House Pedestal-Style Evaporative humidifier is the humidification solution of choice for climate-controlled homes. The AIRCARE humidifier can deliver up to seven gallons of safe, clean moisture into the air every day, moisturizing dry indoor environments and easing your discomfort by preventing or reducing allergy, asthma, hay fever, or cold symptoms.
Features:
| Home Size: | up to 2,000-SF |
| Dimensions (WxHxD): | 18 x 18 x 27.25” |
| Capacity: | 3 gallons a day |
| Weight: | 27 pounds |
| Warranty: | 2 year limited |
Pros:
- Digital display
- Energy efficient
- Variable fan speed
- Large tank capacity
Cons:
- The coverage area is small
2. AIRCARE MA Whole-House Console-Style Evaporative Humidifier
The AIRCARE MA Whole-House Console-Style Evaporative Humidifier (3.6 gal. 3600 sq ft) runs quietly and efficiently; all you hear is the soft sound of water flowing. A maintenance-free antimicrobial air filter traps minerals and bacteria, extending the life of the humidifier.
Energy-efficient construction includes an integrated digital readout for determining exact water levels. The 3.6-gallon tank gives you up to 3600 sq ft of coverage, making this unit perfect for your whole house or anywhere you want instant moisture relief.
This console-style humidifier includes a timer and can emit large amounts of moisture compliant with AHAM M11 or ANSI/AHRI Whole-House Performance Specification. This AC-powered humidifier installs directly to your forced air heating/cooling system and releases streams of water, or water vapor, into the air.
The console-style design makes the AIRCARE MA Whole House Console Humidifier (Model MA-3000) easy to connect to your home plumbing. This evaporative humidifier will bring peace of mind knowing that you can now work or sleep better with proper humidity levels.
Key Features:
| Home Size: | Up to 2,600 SF. |
| Dimensions (WxLxH): | 18″ x 12″ x 6.5″ |
| Capacity: | 2.5 gallons |
| Weight: | 8.5-lbs |
| Warranty: | 2 years limited |
Pros:
- Continuous operation up to 36 hours
- Large coverage area
- Auto On/Off feature
- Wheels for free movement
Cons:
- The wick requires replacement frequently.
- Loud operation
3. Honeywell Cool Moisture Console Humidifier
The Honeywell Cool Moisture Console humidifier creates the ideal indoor environment with the latest technology. This humidifier features a warm mist design that helps relieve cough, cold, and flu symptoms while regulating the moisture levels in your home to prevent dry skin. It offers an adjustable mist control knob that allows you to set your desired humidity level. Plus, you can choose from several output settings, depending on your needs.
Most portable humidifiers are noisy, low-performing humidifiers. The Honeywell Cool Moisture Console humidifier is quiet, has two speeds to select from, and has four different tank fill points. The whole unit, including its base, is white, which matches WHITE furniture or decor.
Also, the console-mounted controls for this model are at the top of the console, making it easier to reach to adjust the control settings. It does not require much water to fill up the tanks because they both use 1 gallon of water each. This whole unit can be placed on a flat surface like a dresser or table or be hung.
Key Features:
| Home Size: | up to 2,300-SF |
| Dimensions (WxLxH): | 23.15 x 14.96 x 17.48” |
| Capacity: | 1.5 gallons |
| Weight: | 19.95 Pounds |
| Warranty: | 3 years limited |
Pros:
- Suitable for small homes
- Easy to install
- Highly durable
- Excellent performance
Cons:
- Noisy
4.Aprilaire 800Z Whole Home Steam Humidifier
The Aprilaire Model 800Z automatic humidifier is for homes up to 6,200 sq. ft. The Model 800Z uses steam-driven condensation to provide the ultimate humidity control. As fresh air enters the home through vents, it passes through a heat exchanger where water evaporates from a continuous flow of supplied steam and condenses on the cool walls and baffles surrounding the air stream.
The Aprilaire 800Z Whole-House Steam Humidifier is ideal for large home applications requiring 0.4 to 0.8 gallons/day of water output. Aprilaire 800Z Steam Humidifier provides dependable, easily controlled whole-house humidification, no matter the season. It automatically maintains an ideal level of humidity in your home without interfering with your household routine. Just fill it once a season, then just let it do the rest!
With Filtrete antimicrobial technology, air-activating foam pads, Service Check reminders, and One-Touch calibration, the Aprilaire 800Z Whole House Steam Humidifier is our most advanced Whole House humidifier. It transports steam throughout your home to humidify the desired level every time.
Key Features:
| Home Size: | up to 6,200-SF |
| Dimensions (w x h x d): | 10″ x 21″ x 7″ |
| Capacity: | 12-35 gallons a day |
| Sensor: | Indoor & Outdoor |
| Weight: | 25-lbs |
| Warranty: | 5-year limited (void if DIY install) |
Pros:
- Quality steam output
- No cleaning required
- Dual sensors to control steam
- Highly accurate
Cons:
- High electricity consumption
- Professional installation is required to maintain the warranty
5.Aprilaire 500MZ Whole Home Humidifier
The Aprilaire 500M is a compact, high-performance whole-house humidifier designed for homes up to 3,600 square feet. A built-in bypass and dedicated pump allow it to operate with furnaces and boilers using either a 24V or 115V circuit.
Aprilaire 500MZ is a manual humidifier with a built-in bypass damper. It can be installed to provide whole-house humidification for homes up to 3600 square feet max. This product is designed with forced-air heating systems and acts as a make-up humidifier or humidifier for dehumidification. It has an adjustable humidity output control dial with settings ranging from 25% to 70%.
With its small installation footprint and compact design, the Aprilaire 500M Z-500M is perfect for installation in tight spaces. This easily identifiable model is designed to fit across an existing 24″ x 20″ furnace plenum opening.
Durable and easy to clean, the unit installs directly into the home’s return ductwork. The Z-500M includes a fluorescent light system, high humidity control sensor, and maintenance-free drain pans as standard features.
Key Features:
| Home Size: | up to 3,600-SF |
| Dimensions (WxHxD): | 15-5/8″ x 13″ x 10-1/4″ |
| Capacity: | 12 gallons a day |
| Weight: | 8-lbs |
| Warranty: | 5-year limited (void if DIY install) |
Pros:
- Lesser expensive than steam models
- Dual sensor monitor
- Compact design
- Highly accurate
Cons:
- No outdoor temp sensor
- A little more water wastage
6. AprilAire 800 Whole Home Steam Humidifier
The AprilAire 800 whole-home steam humidifier is one of the best humidifiers for large homes, as it can cover an area of up to 10,300 square feet. The humidifier comes with a large tank that can use 11.5 gallons of water per day.
On top of that, this humidifier comes with a 5-year warranty, which makes it an extremely reliable humidifier on the list. The best part about this humidifier is that it doesn’t require purified water, as it comes with an internal filter.
Key Features:
| Home Size: | Up to 10,300 -SF. |
| Dimensions (WxLxH): | 7.13″D x 10.13″W x 20.88″H |
| Capacity: | 11.5 Gallons |
| Weight: | 23 Pounds |
| Warranty: | 5 Years |
Pros:
- It doesn’t require purified water.
- Excellent coverage
- Automatic operation with dual sensors
- Ideal for large homes
Cons:
- Not energy efficient
7. Condair HumiLife Residential Whole House Humidifier
Another excellent whole-house humidifier on our list is the Condair HumiLife whole house humidifier which comes with excellent features and efficiency. This humidifier can cover a large home of up to 3000 square feet.
Furthermore, it can be directly mounted on the furnace as it comes with a remote mount system. The humidifier maintains 40 to 60 % humidity which is ideal for added comfort and indoor climate. In short, it is an ideal budget whole-house humidifier for medium and large-sized homes.
Key Features:
| Home Size: | Up to 3,000 -SF. |
| Dimensions (WxLxH): | 18.4 x 10.4 x 6.9 inches |
| Capacity: | 12.7 gallons |
| Weight: | 18.4-lbs |
| Warranty: | 5 years limited |
Pros:
- Ultra-quiet operation
- Large coverage area
- Reliable Technology
- Remote control and monitor
Cons:
- Cloud Connect feature is unreliable.
8. Vornado Evap40 Whole House Humidifier
Next on the list is Vornade Evap40 Whole house humidifier which comes with an adjustable humidistat and 3-speed settings for precise humidity. It is one of the most budget-friendly humidifiers that has manual settings.
The Vornado Evap40 comes with a small tank of 4 liters which is ideal for small-sized homes. When it comes to the coverage area, it can cover up to 1,000 square feet of homes. The humidifier claims to have 24 hours of runtime with its small tank, making it an ideal choice.
The best part about the humidifier is that it comes with a simple control panel that lets you adjust fan speed, humidifier, and other options. Moreover, it is a low-maintenance humidifier as it is spill and leak-proof. Also, the tank is easy to refill and clean.
Key Features:
| Home Size: | Up to 1,000 SF. |
| Dimensions (WxLxH): | 18″ x 12″ x 6.5″ |
| Capacity: | 4 gallons per day |
| Weight: | 9.0-lbs |
| Warranty: | 5 years limited |
Pros:
- 24-hour operation
- Ideal for small apartments
- Manual settings
- Adjustable fan speed
Cons:
- Not durable
- Slightly noisy
9.Levoit Whole House Humidifier
The Levoit humidifier ranks at #9 on the list of top 10 whole house humidifiers due to its modern and smart features.
With both warm and cool mist options, a built-in humidity sensor, an essential oil diffuser, and whisper-quiet operation, it’s a top contender for the best whole house humidifier.
Additionally, the Levoit humidifier comes with a remote control that allows you to easily adjust settings such as humidity levels, timer, mist level, and more, making it a convenient and user-friendly option.
The Levoit whole house humidifier not only performs well but also adds a touch of modernity to any space with its sleek and stylish appearance.
No matter where you place it, this humidifier is sure to blend in with its surroundings while providing efficient and effective humidification.
Features:
| Home Size: | Up to 752 SF. |
| Dimensions (WxLxH): | 7” x 11.3” x 10.5” |
| Capacity: | 6 liter |
| Weight: | 4.92 Pounds |
| Warranty: | 1 year limited |
Pros:
- Remote Control
- Ultrasonic Technology keeps noise levels low
- Essential Oil Diffuser
- Power Efficient
Cons:
- Not ideal for large-sized spaces and rooms
- Durability could have been improved
10. Elechomes SH8830 Whole House Humidifier
Another great option for an affordable whole house humidifier is the Elechomes SH8830. This humidifier offers both warm and cool mist options, as well as an Auto & Sleep Mode for nighttime use.
Moreover, its 360-degree nozzle helps distribute mist evenly throughout the room, and the included remote control makes it easy to adjust settings from the comfort of your couch.
With many premium features at a reasonable price, the Elechomes SH8830 is a solid choice for those on a budget.
Features:
| Home Size: | Up to 861 SF. |
| Dimensions (WxLxH): | 10.2” x 8.4” x 13.3 |
| Capacity: | 1.72 gallons per day |
| Weight: | 6 Pounds |
| Warranty: | 2 years limited |
Pros:
- Touch and Remote Control
- Decent Capacity
- Moderate Room Coverage
- Humidity Control Sensor
Cons:
- Frequent filter replacement required
- Average Build Quality & durability
Conclusion
After reviewing and analyzing the 10 best whole house humidifiers of 2023, we have concluded that the Aprilaire 800Z is the best whole house humidifier and air purifier. It has all the features and specifications you need in a humidifier.
The Aprilaire 800Z Whole Home Steam Humidifier is a great all-around product to help you keep your home healthy and to help remove allergens from the air. While professional humidifiers cost well over $1000, this one provides similar performance for much less.
Still, if you’re not sure about any of these options, don’t feel bad. It’s tricky to nail down exactly what you’ll need, and manufacturers are doing their best to make it easier on us through improved technology. Keep this list handy for when you plan your upgrade, and you should be well off.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How Much Does a Whole House Humidifier Installation Cost?
There are a number of aspects that influence the cost of installing a whole-house humidifier, including the type of humidifier chosen, the size of your home, and the complexity of the installation.
For instance, Portable humidifiers are affordable, and they generally don’t require installation. Evaporative humidifiers can range from $100 to $400, the steam humidifier can cost up to $200, and the furnace-mounted humidifier can cost up to $400 for installation.
Do whole-house humidifiers cause mold?
The answer is that if you run a whole-house humidifier throughout the winter months and mold grows. As a result, it’s probably not the humidifier to blame.
Rather, it’s likely due to high humidity or improper ventilation in your home. So really, whether or not a humidifier will grow mold is dependent upon how you use it—and if you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations along the way.
Which climate is the best climate to install a humidifier?
There isn’t such thing as an ideal climate to add humidifiers in. But, in general, it’s good to add them in areas where the climate is dry and moist.
One exception to that rule is areas with high humidity and tropical climates. Even then, we suggest that you run a humidifier for a few weeks just to see how your body and your home react to your decision.
Are whole house humidifiers safe?
When properly installed and maintained, whole-house humidifiers are safe and effective.
Fortunately, there is plenty that you can do to ensure that the whole house humidifier is safe for your home and you and your family. Choosing a model that a reputable company has made is a great place to start.
How much is the maintenance cost of a whole-house humidifier?
In most cases, the maintenance cost of a whole-house humidifier is between $10 and $50 per year. That’s a relatively low yearly fee to pay for a near guarantee that the problem is fixed once and for all.
