Beware Hidden Dangers Of Whole House Humidifiers Like Mold Growth And Illness

Understanding the Risks of Whole House Humidifiers

Whole house humidifiers can provide much needed moisture to dry indoor air. However, there are several dangers to be aware of when using these units. Improper maintenance and operation can facilitate mold growth, spread bacteria, and even cause furnace corrosion.

How Do Whole House Humidifiers Work?

There are two main types of whole house humidifiers:

• Evaporative - These units contain a wick filter that absorbs water from a reservoir. Air from the central heating system fan then blows through the damp wick to add moisture.
• Bypass - Bypass humidifiers are mounted to supply ductwork so some forced air passes through a wet box or drum to pick up moisture before continuing to vents.

Both humidifier types connect to a home's main water supply line and electrical power. They run automatically via a humidistat set to an ideal humidity level, typically 30-50%.

Benefits of Whole House Humidification

When operating properly, whole house humidifiers provide benefits like:

• Relief of dry skin, sinus congestion, itchy eyes
• Less static electricity and shrinking woodwork
• Lower heating bills
• Protection of wood furniture and flooring

Dangers and Drawbacks of Whole House Humidifiers

However, there are several potentially dangerous drawbacks to using whole house humidifiers.

Can Encourage Excess Mold and Bacteria Growth

The moist environment inside humidifiers provides an ideal breeding ground for microbes like mold, fungi, and bacteria. These organisms then get blown out into living spaces through vents. too much moisture also enables mold to grow on walls, ceilings, and in insulation.

May Cause Respiratory Irritation and Illness

Microbes growing in humidifiers get distributed through the whole home. Inhaling small mold particles and bacteria can lead to allergic reactions and respiratory issues like:

• Wheezing
• Coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Worsened asthma
• Recurring sinus congestion

For those with allergies or compromised immunity, these reactions can become severely dangerous.

Can Spread Pathogens Like Legionella

Stagnant water reservoirs in humidifiers also risk allowing Legionella pneumonia and other bacteria to colonize. When transmitted by air, Legionnaire's disease develops with pneumonia-like symptoms. Other problematic bacteria include pseudomonas and mycobacteria species.

May Cause Internal Home Damage

Excess condensation from over-humidifying can cause costly structural harm and appliance damage:

• Peeling paint and wallpaper
• Warpied woodwork
• Soaked insulation
• Corroded metal
• Furnace rust
• Mildew, wood rot

This destruction also further promotes mold infestations inside walls and HVAC systems.

Can Interfere with Furnace Operation

Bypass humidifiers mounted to ductwork rely on steady airflow for efficiency. But accumulated scale and sediment inside the humidifier can restrict airflow, leading to:

• Poor moisture distribution
• High energy bills
• Furnace overheating
• Compromised air quality
• Frozen air filters

May Leak Water

Faulty humidifier valves, overflowing reservoirs, and undetected leaks can also cause water damage to ceilings, walls, and flooring. Excess moisture impacts building materials and encourages rot or mold growth.

Preventing Dangers of Whole House Humidifiers

When used properly, whole house humidification systems cause minimal issues. Here is how to reduce risks:

Install Proper Humidistat Controls

Set humidistats between 30-50% relative humidity based on climate. The controls should adjust system run times automatically to avoid over-humidifying. Newer digital controls provide the most accuracy.

Change Filters and Clean Regularly

Follow all manufacturer guidelines for cleaning and maintenance. Changing wick filters, evaporation pads, heat tablets, and urns regularly prevents scale buildup while also restricting microbial growth.

Use Proper Water

Using hot water enables easier drainage while killing more microbes. Cold water encourages mineral deposits and bacterial colonies. Deionized, distilled, or reverse osmosis water reduces contamination best.

Inspect for Leaks

Routinely check for leaks around seals, valves, drums, and connections. Watch for water spots on walls or furniture, bubbles in paint, and mildew odors. Repair any found leaks promptly before major damage occurs.

Ensure Proper Airflow

Replace old ductwork and keep registers clean. Balance airflow to all rooms, ensuring the system distributes moisture evenly. Poor airflow increases problems with furnace efficiency and humidity control.

Add Ultraviolet Light

Installing an ultraviolet light inside the humidifier kills bacteria and mold before they get pushed through vents. UV light targets microorganisms' DNA to destroy them.

Hire HVAC Professional

Though DIY installs are tempting for cost savings, the risks outweigh benefits. Improper humidifier setup leads to the majority of operation issues. Hire a qualified HVAC company for sizing, placement, plumbing and wiring.

Signs of a Problem with Whole House Humidification

Watch for these signs of improper humidifier function:

• New visible mold on walls or windows
• Musty, damp smells
• Excess window condensation
• Peeling paint or wallpaper
• Increased dust/dander
• Residents having flu-like symptoms frequently
• Rust around HVAC equipment
• Frequently frozen air filters in winter
• Rooms feel uncomfortably humid
• Warped flooring

Promptly turn the system off if major moisture damage occurs until the root cause gets addressed.

Humidifier Alternatives to Consider

For those wanting to avoid whole house humidifier dangers, safer options include:

Room or Localized Humidifiers

Ultrasonic, evaporative, and steam options designed for single rooms only add moisture to specific areas instead of entire homes. This more contained approach localizes any potential mold and bacteria growth.

Humidifying Plants

Adding moisture-releasing houseplants eliminates risks of equipment problems. But plants only provide minimal humidity improvements for serious dryness issues.

Bowls of Water

Simply placing bowls or pots of water around rooms allows gradual moisture evaporation. This all-natural method also poses no risks, but effects are modest.

Vaporizers

Vaporizers boil water and emit steam locally. Their hot steam kills bacteria and mold, making them safer than cool mist types. However, any standing water still carries some risk.

Whole House Humidifier Precautions

When used carefully, whole house systems effectively combat dry air. But potential dangers exist without proper precautions like:

• Following all manufacturer guidelines
• Using purified, hot water
• Routinely replacing parts
• Checking for leaks and odd smells
• Setting conservative humidity levels on auto humidistats
• Calling HVAC professionals instead of DIY-ing installs and repairs

Implementing diligent humidifier maintenance enables enjoying moist, comfortable air at home safely.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.