Cold weather means drier air, especially indoors once the thermostat is cranked up. That dry air can be blamed for spreading colds, cracked skin, itchy eyes, hacking coughs, and irritated sinuses.
iAllergy.com points out that a humidifier can remedy these symptoms by adding moisture into the air, but if not maintained properly, it can do more harm than good. Here are some important things to take into consideration before investing in one.
Monitor Humidity Levels:
(HomeDepot.com)
Essick Air 4D7-800 Whole House Digital Humidifier
HomeDepot.com, $1,499
Features:
- Circulates air at up to 5000 CFM
- Cools up to 1650 sq. ft. for whole-house cooling
- Comes with a ¾ hp, 2 speed, 115V motor, pump, rigid media, pulley, purge system, and deluxe thermostat
- Uses high performance 12 in. rigid media
- Exterior surfaces electrostatically coated for weather and impact resistance
- Unique perforated air inlet screen provides more air flow than the competition
- Thermoplastic water reservoir prevents corrosion
- Up to 75% energy savings over traditional air conditioning
- Single inlet design for maximum cooling
- Engineered for easy access and maintenance
- UL Classified for safe operation
- Ideal for dry, arid climates
(BedBathandBeyond.com)
Crane Crane Ee-5301W Drop Shape Cool Mist Humidifier
BedBathandBeyond.com, $49.99
Features:
- Cool mist humidifier features variable mist output control and a variable humidity control feature.
- It has whisper-quiet operation and an auto-off function when water tank is empty.
- The removable water tank holds 0.9 gallons, and the running time is 11 hours.
- Suitable for room size measuring approximately 250 square feet.
(Target.com)
AIR-O-SWISS Ultrasonic Humidifier
Target.com, $179.99
Features:
- Ultrasonic technology uses high-frequency vibrations to generate a micro-fine mist
- Fan blows mist into the room where it immediately evaporates adding to overall comfort
- Automatic shutoff
- Comes with a Hydro Stick installed
- For rooms up to 650 sq. ft.
(Amazon.com)
Graco 4 Gallon Cool Mist Humidifier
Amazon.com, $66.58
Features:
- Tank and tray are dishwasher safe
- EasyFill tank for fast easy refills
- Humidifier runs on three settings
- Up to 24 hours of operation and covers 1200 square feet
- Approximately 2.5 gallon tank with 4 gallon output per day
(Amazon.com)
Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier with Auto Shut-Off
Amazon.com, $31.49
Features:
- Automatic Shut-off
- 1-gallon capacity; operates up to 12 hours on a single filling
- Quiet operation. Soft glowing nightlight.
- 2 Comfort settings
- Medicine cup allows the use of Vicks Vaposteam or Kaz Inhalent to produce a medicated vapor that sooths
