For humidifiers to serve their purpose, they must be sized accordingly to the room where the unit will be used. In some cases, multiple units are needed to cover large areas. So the question is this: how many humidifiers do I need?
In this post, we will answer this question to help you set up a humidifier system in your home. Read on to ensure that you’re humidifying your place safely and accurately.
How many humidifiers do I need?
There’s no single answer to this because the number of humidifiers you need depends on a few factors. These are the size of the place where it will be used, the humidifier capacity, and the current humidity level.
Below, I discuss each of these points to help you in purchasing the right number of units:
1. Consider the size of your place
The first thing you should check before purchasing a humidifier is the area where you plan to use it. This will dictate the efficiency of the humidifier, among other things.
In general, one portable humidifier is enough for a small bedroom or apartment. Most portable humidifiers are made to cover floor areas not bigger than 400 sq. ft.
However, if your place is bigger than 400 sq. ft. but not larger than 1,000 sq. ft., you may need two portable humidifiers of the same model.
Take note that these examples are only explicitly advisable for residential use. Also, it’s not an absolute number, which is something we will delve deeper into later on.
For commercial spaces, portable humidifiers aren’t enough. This is where industrial humidifiers come in. Most of the time, these are console humidifiers made to cover up to 2,000 sq. ft. per unit. While it’s bulky and heavy, it still has a sense of portability.
Most commercial spaces that don’t need regular or continuous humidification will use one or more console humidifiers. This way, the units can be stashed away when not in use. It’s also easier to run, and no special installation is needed.
However, if we’re going to talk about buildings or permanent humidifiers, a central unit is the ultimate choice. Unlike portable or console types, these are installed and integrated into the HVAC system of the property.
2. Check the humidifier capacity
When deciding upon the number of humidifiers you need, you also have to factor in the capacity of each unit.
Let’s say you have a 1,000 sq. ft. of space to humidify, but your humidifier is only rated for 500 sq. ft. In this case, you need two units of the said humidifier you’re using. Another option is to get one humidifier rated for up to 1,000 sq. ft.
The point here is always to check the capacity rating of the humidifier you’re going to buy. From there, you can do the simple math and determine the number of units you actually need.
The good thing is that almost every humidifier will have a capacity rating included on its label. This easily allows consumers to calculate the number of units they need based on various factors.
However, if you have a large commercial space that requires a climate-controlled approach, you’re better off consulting an HVAC expert. You most likely need a central unit that’s easier to program and will deliver consistent results.
3. Mind the humidity level in your place
Another thing you should think about is the current humidity level in your area. A portable humidifier will be enough most of the time if you’re just 5% to 10% below the ideal level.
However, if you’re dealing with the harshest winter, you may need something more powerful. This way, the humidifier can raise the humidity level at a reasonable speed.
Also, it would help if you remembered that a very small humidifier used in very dry air and a large room is dysfunctional.
First, it will take hours for the small humidifier to achieve the humidity level you want. Also, the unit would have to run non-stop, which means it’s more likely to bog down or become damaged.
So if your place is experiencing very low humidity levels, you should consider a larger unit than merely portable types.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Should I put a humidifier in every room?
A: Humidifiers are great devices, but you don’t really need to place one in every room. It still boils down to the actual humidity level you’re dealing with. Remember that over humidification isn’t a good thing since it will allow pathogens to proliferate in your home.
Q: Can you have too much humidifier?
A: Yes, you can have too many humidifiers in your home. This happens if you use multiple units that are far more than you actually need. This can be prevented if you check the unit’s capacity compared to the floor area of the place where you plan to use it. Also, it would help if you always programmed the humidifier to an ideal humidity level to avoid over humidification.
Q: Is one humidifier enough for a room?
A: The answer to this depends on the capacity of the humidifier and the size of the room. It’s essential to check if these two match. Otherwise, the humidifier might be too small or too big for the room where you plan to use it.
Q: Where is the best place to put a humidifier?
A: Humidifiers should be placed at least two feet off the floor and three feet away from any surfaces. This is to prevent moisture from getting into wooden furniture or electronic devices. If you’re using it in a baby room, it’s important to ensure that the mist isn’t blowing directly into the infant’s direction.
Final words
How many humidifiers do I need? To know the answer for this, you must consider the room area, humidifier capacity, and humidity levels in your place. This way, you can maximize the units you’re going to purchase.
For those who are planning to humidify commercial spaces like warehouses, it’s best to consult an indoor air expert for a more accurate approach.
Home Air Quality is founded by Bernard K to provide information on Indoor Air Quality in Homes and enlighten people about what they need to know about creating and maintaining a comfortable and healthy home environment.
We believe that “Quality air brings a healthy life.”
