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Dry indoor air can lead to dry skin, respiratory issues, and other headaches, but homeowners can add moisture back into the air by installing a whole-house ductless humidifier. Installation is complex, and best left to very experienced do-it-yourself enthusiasts or professionals, but the results are worth it. Read how to install and maintain a whole-house ductless humidifier in the guide below.
Understanding Whole-House Ductless Humidifiers
Whole-house ductless humidifiers add moisture to the air using a fan system. This system generates and distributes steam evenly throughout the house. Investing in this type of system comes with the following advantages:
- Enhances comfort throughout the entire home
- Improves air quality
- Prevents dry skin and respiratory issues
- Protects wood furniture and flooring
- Reduces static electricity
Choosing the Right Ductless Humidifier
Choose a humidifier that can distribute steam to all parts of your house efficiently. Consider the following factors when making your choice:
Size and Capacity
Your home’s size and layout will determine the humidifier capacity you need. Larger homes or homes with open floor plans might require a higher-capacity unit for even humidity distribution.
Features and Controls
Look for humidifiers that feature the following user-friendly controls and features:
- Adjustable humidity settings
- Automatic shut-off
- Filter change indicators
- Smart home compatibility
Energy Efficiency
Choose an energy-efficient humidifier to save money without sacrificing efficiency. Gather as much information as you can about your home’s square footage and insulation before you call a contractor. This will help you to avoid buying a humidifier that’s needlessly big.
Ductless Humidifier Installation Process
Installing a whole-house ductless humidifier requires careful planning and execution, and we recommend leaving it to the professionals.
Choosing the Location
Positioning your humidifier in the right location is the key to an efficient system. Consider the following variables when deciding between spots:
- Access to electrical connections
- Adequate clearance for maintenance
- Central location for even humidity distribution
- Proximity to water supply and drain
Mounting the Units
Your HVAC contractor will secure the steam generation unit in the mechanical room or utility area, then cut a hole in the wall to accommodate the fan pack in the living space. The contractor will install the fan pack, then verify that it’s level and secure.
Making Water Connections
Next, your contractor will connect the water supply line to the steam generation unit. He or she will install a drain line from the unit to a nearby floor drain or utility sink.
Your contractor should use copper tubing and appropriate fittings for all water connections. Professionals will offer advice on how frequently you should inspect and maintain your equipment.
Electrical Connections
Hire a professional electrician to connect the steam generation unit to a dedicated circuit. Your electrician will wire the fan pack to the main unit, and install and connect the humidistat control panel.
Ductless Humidifier Maintenance and Upkeep
Follow the tips below to keep your whole-house ductless humidifier running smoothly:
Regular Cleaning
Clean the humidifier components every one to three months during the heating season, or according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This prevents residue buildup, and keeps your system running efficiently and effectively.
Filter Replacement
Replace filters once per season, or as recommended by the manufacturer. This keeps the system from clogging, and keeps it operating at peak efficiency.
Professional Inspections
Schedule annual professional inspections to make sure all components work correctly. This will also give you a chance to address potential issues before they become major problems. Experts will recommend upgrades or improvements that can enhance your system’s performance.
Additional Maintenance Tips
Keep the tips below in mind when you run your humidifier:
- Clear the fan pack of dust and debris
- Keep an eye on the humidity levels, and adjust settings as needed
- Regularly check for leaks in the water supply and drain lines
Optimizing Humidity Levels
The right humidity level keeps you comfortable without causing moisture-related issues. Consider the following tips when you’re trying to find the right level:
- Additional monitoring devices: Devices such as smart home systems and apps can track humidity levels. Purchase a digital hygrometer to check humidity levels in specific areas.
- Adjusting settings: Use the humidistat to adjust humidity levels based on the weather and personal preferences. Lower it during colder weather to prevent condensation on windows and walls.
- Monitoring humidity: Regularly check humidity levels using the built-in humidistat or a separate hygrometer. Look for signs of excessive humidity, such as condensation or musty odors, and adjust as needed.
Humidifier Cost Considerations
The cost of a whole-house ductless humidifier ranges from less than $200 to more than $1,000. Make sure you also budget for professional installation, which is a separate expense. The initial investment may seem significant, but the improved air quality and comfort frequently outweigh the costs for many homeowners.
Investing in a quality system can lead to long-term savings on energy bills and reduced healthcare costs related to dry air problems. Many homeowners find it is easier and more cost-effective to use a whole-house humidifier than to use several small humidifiers across several rooms.
*Cost data in this article sourced from Angi.
