Ultrasonic type, heating type, vaporization type, hybrid type, types of humidifiers and points for selecting them
As the cold season approaches, many of you may be worried about the dryness of your room. Some people are considering buying a humidifier?
In fact, humidifiers are mainly divided into four types, each with its own characteristics. So this time we will introduce the characteristics of the 4 humidifiers. If you are lost in choosing a humidifier, please refer to it.
There are 4 main types of humidifiers! Points to know when choosing a humidifier
There are four main types of humidifiers: ultrasonic, heating (steam), vaporization, and hybrid. Check the features of each product and choose the one that matches your home.
Type of humidifier: If you want a small type... Ultrasonic
[Reference] Iris Ohyama Ultrasonic Humidifier UHM-280B
The ultrasonic humidifier is a type of humidifier that has an ultrasonic generator installed inside that vibrates to generate a fine mist.
The main unit price and electricity bill tend to be cheap, and the feature is that there are many designs. Since there are many small types in the lineup, it is characterized by being easy to install even at the bedside.
However, since heat is not used to generate the mist, bacteria tend to grow easily if care is neglected.
Humidifier type: If you want to use it hygienically... heating type (steam type)
[Reference] Zojirushi Mahobin Steam Humidifier EE-DC35/50
In some cases, the heating type is called a steam type depending on the manufacturer.
The heating type humidifier has a heater inside that heats water, boils it, and releases steam. It may be easier to understand if you imagine a scene where steam comes out of a kettle placed on a stoop.
Electricity bills tend to be higher than the ultrasonic type or the vaporization type, which will be introduced later, due to the use of a heater. Also, since heated steam is released, be careful when using it in homes with small children and pets.
Although it is such a heated humidifier, it is difficult for bacteria to grow, and it also has the effect of raising the room temperature because it uses a heater.
Humidifier type: If you want to reduce your electricity bill... Vaporization
[Reference] Sharp HV-P30
Evaporative humidifiers have a fan and filter inside. During operation, a fan blows air through a water-filled filter, releasing tiny water particles. Unlike the heating type, it does not use a heater, so there is a high possibility that the electricity bill can be kept low.
Because the fan and motor are running inside, the operating noise tends to be louder than ultrasonic humidifiers, but like the Sharp "HV-P30", it can operate quietly at a minimum of 22dB. Models are also for sale.
Humidifier type: If you want to use it safely and hygienically... Hybrid type
[Reference]Corona humidifier
There is also a "hybrid type" humidifier that combines a heating type and an evaporative type.
In a hybrid humidifier, the air coming out of the fan is warmed by a heater, applied to a water-soaked filter to evaporate the moisture, and released into the room. It may be similar to the image of blowing hot air from a dryer on wet clothes.
In addition to suppressing the release of germs, unlike the heating type, it does not release hot steam, so it should be safe to use in homes with small children and pets. It also has the advantage of quickly moistening the room.
However, the main unit price tends to be high and the main unit size is large, so it may be difficult to install in a room with limited space.
In addition, some manufacturers sell hybrid types that combine ultrasonic and heating types instead of vaporization and heating types.
[Related article] The cause of unpleasant odors in humidifiers and how to easily clean them
In addition, there are cleaning methods that are not recommended depending on the product, so if you want to know more details, please check the instruction manual of the humidifier you are using or the product website.
The humidifier is not effective depending on where you put it!?
For example, if you install it near the doorway of the room or under the ventilation fan, the humidified air will escape as it is. Also, if it is placed near a window that is not insulated, the humidified water vapor will condense.
In addition, if you place a humidifier near the floor, the released water vapor will cool down and become water droplets, which can wet the floor.
In order to feel the effect of the humidifier more, it is better not to install it near the doorway, under the ventilation fan, near the window, near the floor, etc.
If you want to feel the effect of the humidifier more, it may be better to place it in the center of the room away from the floor.
* Data is based on editorial research as of early September 2021. *Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, we do not guarantee the completeness and accuracy of the content. * Please use and operate the product at your own risk.
Written by Akira Takamizawa