Lack of moisture in the air inside your household may cause different health issues and impair the durability of your property like wooden furniture, hardwood flooring, etc. Thus, it is recommended to invest in a decent humidifier. This device is capable of improving the well-being of each family member. The whole house units are more efficient options suitable for larger areas. Here you will learn the essentials which help you to make a right choice meeting your specific needs.

What is the best whole-house humidifier? In order to ensure a whole-house healthy environment, you will need a high-performance evaporative or steam humidifier. The fan-powered units have to be equipped with a durable motor, which can adjust the speed settings depending on the humidity level needed. All advanced models should have the ability to work in auto mode and feature digital control (humidistat) which contributes to achievement of the perfect humidity level for you. The stationary bypass and fan-powered units should be flexible in terms of compatibility with various types of HVAC systems. Portable whole-house humidifiers should be rated for large spaces while featuring efficient water consumption.

Best Whole-House Humidifiers Compared

1. Aprilaire 700 Whole Home Automatic Fan-Powered Furnace Humidifier
This automatic model is declared to provide the peak performance by covering up to 4,200 sq. ft. with the capacity of 18 gallons of water per day. Its integrated fan draws the heated air from the furnace through the humidifier, thus ensuring an optimal humidity within 35%-45% range.

CHECK THE CURRENT PRICE  

2. Aprilaire - 800Z 800 Whole Home Steam Humidifier, Automatic Steam Humidifier
This pricey warm mist humidifier is developed to cover large areas up to 6,200 sq. ft. It is capable to vary the moist output from 11.5 to 34.6 gallons. The electrode technology is implemented in this model thus allowing usage of unfiltered water. Humidification is performed in auto mode with a digital control to generate the optimum moisture content in the air.

CHECK THE CURRENT PRICE  

3. Aprilaire - 500MZ 500M Whole Home Humidifier for up to 3,000 Sq. Ft.
It is a manual model from Aprilaire rated for large spaces up to 3,000 sq.ft. with the 12- gallon daily capacity. The humidity level can be adjusted manually if its sensor’s readings show insufficient indoor relative humidity. This model comes in a compact design to fit in the tightest spaces.

CHECK THE CURRENT PRICE  

4. AIRCARE MA1201 Whole-House Console-Style Evaporative Humidifier
This portable wheeled model is capable of humidifying up to 3,600 sq. ft. Equipped with a 3.6 gallon water tank, this model can continuously run up to 36 hours. The selected humidity level can be maintained with a digital humidistat. The unit also features a digital display, auto shutoff and filter level indicator.

CHECK THE CURRENT PRICE  

5. AIRCARE H12600, Copper Night Digital Whole-House Console-Style Evaporative Humidifier
This humidifier comes in an elegant design with the controls hidden behind a panel. It is designed to humidify large spaces up to 3,700 sq. ft. with the 12-gallon output per day. It is based on evaporative technology excluding white dust accumulation.

CHECK THE CURRENT PRICE  

Types of Whole-House Humidifiers: Evaporative, Bypass, Fan-powered & Steam Humidifier Comparison

As the name implies such devices are designated for larger spaces. Their operation is based on evaporative or steam humidification in order to distribute refreshing moisture around a large area or several rooms located on the same floor. As the coverage area of the whole house models is considerably bigger, the efficiency of these units is provided by fan or furnace power. The latter directs the moisture to the desired area. But it is important to mention that the fans commonly provoke an increased noise level in comparison with smaller humidifiers.

The whole-house devices feature big water tanks which are automatically refilled from your plumbing system. Thus, you never have to worry that it may run dry. So, let’s learn about different types of these capacious humidifiers to be aware of the main peculiarities and possible bottlenecks, thus settling upon an option satisfying your major demands. The humidifiers with an evaporative element can be offered in a bypass or a fan-powered design.

Evaporative humidifiers

Evaporative humidifiers are the traditional devices for air moistening which blow it through a pad or a filter soaked with water. Evaporation takes place as a result of this process. Thus, the principle of work is based on natural evaporation. These devices are the best options for HVAC systems as they generate a cool mist, differently from steam models which produce warm mist.

Generally evaporative whole house humidifiers are less expensive than the steam models, but they require regular maintenance which comprises replacement of an evaporation element. APRILAIRE 700 WHOLE HOUSE AUTOMATIC FAN POWERED FURNACE HUMIDIFIER is one of the best examples of the advanced air conditioning technologies.

Steam humidifiers

Steam humidifiers use hot steam to moisten the indoor area. Unlike evaporative models the steam devices do not require a furnace system. They are equipped with a blower which is activated as soon as the water is heated sufficiently by an integrated boiler to disperse it to the air. This option is more preferable for people who suffer from allergies due to the ability of the boiled water to kill or inactivate viruses, bacteria and other pathogens.

Steam humidifiers demonstrate high efficiency, as they can quickly moisten a big room. APRILAIRE - 800Z WHOLE HOME AUTOMATIC STEAM HUMIDIFIER is one of these powerful units which are designated for larger areas with an incredibly high output capacity. However, warm mist units are not recommended for the families with small children. It is related to the fact that during their operation or rollover there is the possible risk of scalds and steam burns.

Bypass humidifiers

Bypass humidifiers use the air that passes through the heat ducts and dampers. Then they supply it to the water panels to absorb moisture. The generated steam returns to the area to be humidified through the tube. Bypass devices use a furnace fan to heat and distribute the air. Thus, they are commonly installed at the outlet or inlet of your duct system. This type of humidifiers is quieter than the steam units or fan-powered counterparts, as it doesn’t feature a motor.

For instance, APRILAIRE - 500MZ WHOLE HOME HUMIDIFIER, MANUAL COMPACT FURNACE HUMIDIFIER is equipped with a bypass damper to fit in HVAC systems. Despite all advantages of the bypass models, you should take into consideration that the entire assembly would take more space, as it includes the bypass duct to be installed.

Fan-powered humidifiers

Fan-powered humidifiers are equipped with a motor which activates an embedded fan to draw the air through an evaporation element and disperse it back into the ductwork. Thus, they can function without a furnace, as these devices are designed in the way to moisten the indoor air when needed.

However, stationary whole house fan-powered humidifiers use water from your water supply system. Which is why they commonly feature an auto refilling function. And, they require smaller spaces for installation. AIRCARE H12600, COPPER NIGHT DIGITAL WHOLE-HOUSE CONSOLE-STYLE EVAPORATIVE HUMIDIFIER is a bright example of the fan-powered humidifiers which is capable of adjusting the speed with 4 settings, depending on your needs.

Portable whole-house humidifiers

In addition to the above-mentioned classification of the whole house humidifiers, there is one more related to mobility. In particular, initially all high-performance humidifiers were designed as stationary units to be installed in a utility room or HVAC closet. Nowadays, some of the advanced whole house models offer an excellent portability. The latter becomes possible because these humidifiers come as stand-alone units with an integrated big-capacity water reservoir independent from the HVAC system.

They are commonly equipped with wheels or casters to move around the house. Commonly they have a console-style design with hidden internal components covered with plastic or wooden panels to blend easily into any interior. AIRCARE MA1201 WHOLE-HOUSE CONSOLE-STYLE EVAPORATIVE HUMIDIFIER can be distinguished by its ultimate portability compared with its counterparts in this class.

How to choose the right option for your humidity conditions? | Tips and recommendations

You should be aware of the fact that the air contains the minimum level of moisture at low temperatures. Thus, the indoor air during winter time is so dry. It is connected with the beginning of the heating season which makes things even worse. If no arrangements are made the humidity may drop down to 7%. With that, the acceptable level should be within 30-40% during winter and 40-60% during summer time.

Humidifiers are indispensable units in these situations. This necessity has been already proven above in this article. However, humidity level can be different for various regions, seasons and it can depend on other factors, as well. So, how can you measure the moisture content in your room or house? Basically, you can purchase a separate humidity sensor to have the corresponding readings in real time. However, these hassles are not necessary any more, as the state-of-the-art models of air humidifiers are designed with the integrated digital humidistats or hygrometers as a comprehensive solution for this purpose. They work in auto mode to maintain a balanced humidity. Thus, you don’t need to monitor the air humidity constantly. That is, the device will be automatically switched on as soon as it is needed. And vice versa, it will shut down when the humidity level is within an acceptable range.

TOP-Rated Whole-House Humidifiers | Reviews

APRILAIRE 700 WHOLE HOUSE AUTOMATIC FAN POWERED FURNACE HUMIDIFIER | Best evaporative humidifier

The Aprilaire is the recognizable U.S. manufacturer of reliable healthy air systems including humidifiers, dehumidifiers, purifiers, thermostats, ventilation systems, filters and other accessories.

The APRILAIRE 700 is designed to humidify the areas up to 4,200 sq. ft. with a daily capacity of 18 gallons. This evaporative humidifier is equipped with a fan which blows dry, hot air from the HVAC system through the water panel. Thus, the natural evaporation occurs, with the circulation of the humidified throughout your home.

This model works in 100% auto mode, featuring a sophisticated temperature control system consisting of an auto digital control panel and outdoor temperature sensor to keep a balanced humidity level of your indoor surroundings throughout the year.

Features

  • Coverage area (sq. ft.): 4,200
  • Capacity (gal.): 18
  • Weight (lbs.): 15.5
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 10.34 x 15.91 x 18
Pros: Cons:
  • Automatic and manual mode
  • Wide coverage area
  • Temperature control
  • Quiet operation
  • Can be adapted to various humidity conditions
  • Mounting kit is not included
  • Requires professional assistance during installation

This humidifier is a perfect solution for large houses which allows achieving the total control over humidity levels under your desired settings.

APRILAIRE 700: Check the current price

APRILAIRE - 800Z WHOLE HOME AUTOMATIC STEAM HUMIDIFIER | Best steam humidifier

I would like to review an awesome high-performance steam humidifier from Aprilaire, as well. Its implemented electrode technology contributes to the ultimate efficiency of the water heating process inside this unit. Due to this feature it can cover up to 6,200 sq. ft. with an adjustable capacity from 11.5 up to 34.6-gallon of the produced moisture, depending on your needs. The submerged electrodes of this device allow using unfiltered water thus minimizing operating and maintenance costs. In particular, the Apriaire will run with water hardness between 3 and 36 grains, which is a very wide range.

Also, this automatic whole house humidifier is equipped with two temperature sensors which will control both indoor and outdoor relative humidity to ensure the maximum comfort. Nevertheless, special precautions must be taken whenever this unit is in operation, as the water in a steam canister, and other parts can be very hot reaching up to 212°F.

Features

  • Coverage area (sq. ft.): 6,200
  • Capacity (gal.): 34.6
  • Weight (lbs.): 24.5
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 7.13 x 10.13 x 20.88
Pros: Cons:
  • Wide coverage area
  • Adjustable capacity
  • Auto control
  • Humidistat
  • Doesn’t require water filtration
  • Cleans the air from impurities and other pathogens
  • Electrode canisters have to be replaced at least once per year
  • May cause burn injuries
  • Expensive

This heavy-duty steam humidifier with its electrode technology is a user-friendly option allowing for simple installation, operation, and maintenance. Nevertheless, it requires the special attention to ensure its safe operation.

APRILAIRE 800Z: Check the current price

APRILAIRE - 500MZ WHOLE HOME HUMIDIFIER, MANUAL COMPACT FURNACE HUMIDIFIER | Best budget

The Aprilaire 500 is declared as a low water consumption unit. This humidifier with a built-in bypass damper is designed to fit your HVAC system offering a flexible installation. It is suitable for 3,000 square feet households, and it can produce up to 12 gallons of moisture per day.

This model is designed to provide a manual control over the process. However, it features one sensor which monitors the relative humidity indoors, thus you can always set the desired humidity percentage based on these readings. Its light weight and compact size makes this model suitable for tight spaces.

Features

  • Coverage area (sq. ft.): 3,000
  • Capacity (gal.): 12
  • Weight (lbs.): 7.7
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 10.2 x 15.6 x 13
Pros: Cons:
  • Low water consumption rate
  • Lightweight
  • Suitable for tight spaces
  • Indoor temperature control
  • Easy installation
  • Affordable price
  • Manual operation only

This is the most budget-friendly whole house humidifier in our review which gives you excellent flexibility in installation and operation to maintain an optimum humidity level in your home.

APRILAIRE 500MZ: Check the current price

APRILAIRE 500 WHOLE HOME HUMIDIFIER, AUTOMATIC COMPACT FURNACE HUMIDIFIER

This whole house humidifier is similar to the above-mentioned model in its design and technical characteristics including the coverage area of up to 3,000 sq. ft. and the output capacity of 12 gallons daily. However, this unit can be operated in auto mode thanks to its built-in dual sensors for monitoring the relative humidity both indoors and outdoors according to the selected settings. They will be saved until other changes are introduced by its user.

Also, this model features a convenient digital control panel with clear readings on humidity percentage, light indicators, and a blower activation switch. The latter sets the humidifier to work continuously, or only when the furnace is in operation.

Features

  • Coverage area (sq. ft.): 3,000
  • Capacity (gal.): 12
  • Weight (lbs.): 7.7
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 10.2 x 15.6 x 13
Pros: Cons:
  • Automatic model
  • Accurate digital control
  • Low water consumption rate
  • Suitable for tight spaces
  • Indoor temperature control
  • Lightweight
  • Compact
  • Easy installation
  • Can be loud on higher settings

I would recommend this model as an upgraded version of the Aprilaire – 500MZ in terms of auto operation and digital controls granting a healthy environment in your home easily.

APRILAIRE 500: Check the current price

AIRCARE MA1201 WHOLE-HOUSE CONSOLE-STYLE EVAPORATIVE HUMIDIFIER

Aircare is one of the most trusted brands of whole-house humidifiers. They have been established in the U.S. as a part of Essick Air Products, Inc. which has more than 90 years of expertise providing high-tech humidifiers and coolers.

It is the first stand-alone whole house humidifier in our top list. The portability of this device is the main distinguishing feature in comparison with other stationary units reviewed above. In particular, the MA1201 is a console-style humidifier supported by 4 casters for easy mobility.

In spite of its compactness and a limited tank capacity of 3.6 gallons, this model is suitable for large spaces up to 3,600 sq. ft. Besides, the manufacturer promises that this product is capable of working up to 36 hours continually. The device is equipped with an auto humidistat to keep the desired humidity level when needed. And it will shut down as soon as the target humidity is achieved or when the water tank has to be refilled.

Features

  • Coverage area (sq. ft.): 3,600
  • Tank capacity (gal.): 3.6
  • Weight (lbs.): 13.5
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 14.5 x 21.5 x 20.5
Pros: Cons:
  • 4-speed settings
  • High coverage area in spite of its compactness
  • Auto humidistat
  • Auto shut-off
  • Portable
  • Requires water refilling
  • Could be noisy at higher speeds

Although this humidifier comes as a portable and compact unit, it can ensure unexpectedly high efficiency of moisture adding to the air.

AIRCARE MA1201: Check the current price

HONEYWELL HOME HE240A2001 HE240A WHOLE HOUSE HUMIDIFIER

Honeywell Home is an exclusive brand of Resideo Technologies Inc., the international business which is one of the leaders on the market of automation systems for the residential development sector. Honeywell Home is focusing on heating and cooling, home air quality, and safety/security systems.

The Honeywell HE240 bypass humidifier is designated for homes from 1,500 to 3,000 square feet, dispersing around 16 gallons of moisture per day. This evaporative humidifier is compatible with gas furnace systems. Its FLO water system contributes to an improved efficiency in terms of water consumption rate.

The flow-through design of this device maintains it free from impurities or pathogens. Besides, it has a filter pad to sort out minerals and other impurities from hard water to provide cleaner mist. Thanks to these features less maintenance is required.

Features

  • Coverage area (sq. ft.): 3,000
  • Capacity (gal.): 16
  • Weight (lbs.): 5
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 18.7 x 15.7 x 15.3
Pros: Cons:
  • Suitable for HVAC systems
  • Reduced water consumption
  • Auto flushing function
  • Comes with an installation kit
  • No digital control
  • Requires professional assistance during installation

This reliable whole house humidifier would definitely help to balance the humidity levels in your household providing the optimum comfort with no hassle.

HONEYWELL HOME HE240A2001: Check the current price

AIRCARE H12600, COPPER NIGHT DIGITAL WHOLE-HOUSE CONSOLE-STYLE EVAPORATIVE HUMIDIFIER

The Aircare manufactures decent appliances in terms of quality and design to blend in any interior. In particular the Aircare H12600 is a stylish freestanding model with a 4-speed fan. This unit features the whole house coverage attaining 3,700 sq. ft. Its water tank holds 5.4 gallons of water and delivers up to 11.9 gallons output daily. Refilling can be done quickly and easily with the help of an included hose. This whole house humidifier features a humidistat dial to set the desired range. Besides, it has a turn-on and shut-off functions which activate when the desired humidity is achieved or if any deviations of the user’s settings appear.

The control system is covered with a fancy wooden panel. In spite of its bulky design this model has sufficient portability thanks to the console-style design and rolling casters.

Features

  • Coverage area (sq. ft.): 3,700
  • Capacity (gal.): 11.9
  • Weight (lbs.): 20
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 13.7 x 21.7 x 23.5
Pros: Cons:
  • High coverage
  • High capacity tank which can be easily refilled
  • Digital humidistat
  • Adjustable fan speed
  • Auto shut-off
  • Roll casters for mobility
  • Heavy
  • Requires constant refilling

This fancy model would become a decent choice for big houses with no required integration into a HVAC.

AIRCARE H12600: Check the current price

IDEAL-AIR 700860 COMMERCIAL-GRADE HUMIDIFIER GSH75 | Best quiet

The Australian Ideal Air was found in 2002. Nowadays, it is the most trusted and respected residential- and commercial-grade companies offering their products and services in the air conditioning sector within the country.

The manufacturer claims that this humidifier can be used for commercial purposes. This statement is grounded by a heavy-duty motor which contributes to durability of this device. It can be connected directly to your plumbing system with your tubing and wiring. The Ideal-Air 700860 is capable of humidifying the area from 160 to 320 sq. ft. depending on ceiling height and humidity level needed. The maximum output makes 9.3 gallons per day.

The humidifier has a multi-directional fogging head which can be rotated to set the direction of the mist. Also, this unit can be easily handled with the help of an attached handle thus improving its mobility.

Features

  • Coverage area (sq. ft.): 320
  • Capacity (gal.): 9.3
  • Weight (lbs.): 14.5
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 13.9 x 17.9 x 13.9
Pros: Cons:
  • Reliable motor
  • Multi-directional fogging head
  • Quiet operation
  • Compact
  • Lower coverage
  • No humidistat
  • Expensive

It is a quiet and a high-quality humidifier which doesn’t need to be refilled each time. Nevertheless, you will have to purchase an additional controller to get better precision in humidity achievement.

IDEAL-AIR 700860: Check the current price

Best-Selling Whole-House Humidifiers | Comparison Table

Customers' Choice | Best Budget

Best Value

Most Popular

Best Budget

Most Discussed & Reviewed

Best Trusted

Best Cheap

Other Popular whole house humidifiers

Products with a 5-star rating

 

Product5 Stars Votes
AIRCARE Digital Whole-House Console-Style Evaporative Humidifier (Copper Night)230(39.5%)
Honeywell Home HE240A2001 HE240A Whole House Humidifier199(34.1%)
AILINKE KEECOON Large Humidifiers 1000 sq.ft, 16L Ultrasonic Cool Mist Top Fill Humidifier 4.2Gal Dual 360 ° Nozzles 3 Speed Humidistat for Home School Office Workshop Greenhouse146(25%)
AIRCARE MA1201 Whole-House Console-Style Evaporative Humidifier, White3(0.5%)
Premium Ultrasonic Cool Warm Mist Humidifier - Top-Filling - Whisper Quiet Humidifier for Bedroom, Large Room, Babies, Home - 4L Capacity, 30H Humidifying - for Dry Cough, Nose, Skin Eyes2(0.3%)
Aprilaire 500 Whole Home Humidifier, Automatic Compact Furnace Humidifier, Large Capacity Whole House Humidifier for Homes up to 3,000 Sq. Ft., white2(0.3%)
AIRCARE 831000 Space-Saver, White Whole House Evaporative Humidifier 2700 sq. ft1(0.2%)

Tips and advices on YouTube

Top 5 Best Whole House Humidifier Review in 2021


Best Whole House Humidifiers 🏠: Top Options Reviewed | HVAC Training 101


Unboxing Install | Aprilaire Model 700 Humidifier

Add comment