QA

Question: How To Install A Bypass Humidifier

How is a bypass humidifier installed?

Where is a bypass humidifier installed? Bypass humidifier are most commonly installed on the return duct of your heating and air conditioning system but can also be installed on the supply duct. The humidifier relies on the force produced by the fan of the indoor unit to introduce humidity into the air stream.

How does a bypass humidifier work?

The bypass humidifier is connected to the return of your furnace or air handler. It does not have a motor of its own and instead relies on the blower motor of the furnace to push warm air through it. The warm air is then pushed through the water panel that is within the humidifier and absorbs moisture from it.

Does a bypass humidifier go on supply or return?

Can my Bypass Flow Through Humidifier be installed on the air return? Yes. Though the ideal mounting location is on the warm air supply, sometimes it’s not possible due to space restrictions. Fortunately, Honeywell’s Bypass Flow Through Humidifiers can also be installed on the return air duct.

What is better a bypass or powered humidifier?

Comfort and Space If you have a small space or your house doesn’t have a basement, fan-powered humidifiers are your best choice. If you want a humidifier that does its job quietly, a bypass humidifier is the better option since it doesn’t run on its own motor.

Is it hard to install a whole house humidifier?

These systems are relatively simple to install, and they typically attach to the main stack of a forced-air furnace where the unit draws its water from a nearby hot or cold water pipe. You’ll need about two hours to mark the template, cut holes, and install the humidifier.

Is a bypass humidifier good?

Bypass humidifiers are less efficient because the moist air has to pass through the furnace fans for distribution, which results in humidity loss. Moreover, the units use more water to prevent mineral buildup in the water panel.

Are bypass humidifiers effective?

Bypass humidifiers are less efficient because the air they moisturize has to go through the furnace, resulting in humidity loss. Not only do they distribute less moist air throughout the house, they also use more water to prevent the water panel from getting clogged by mineral buildup.

How much water does a bypass humidifier use?

Depending on the model you choose and the size of your home, a humidifier uses from 1.5 to 12 gallons per day when the furnace is operating. This minimal amount of water is enough to raise the humidity to your desired level, but not enough for you to notice a difference on your water bill.

What is the driving force that moves air through a bypass humidifier?

With a bypass humidifier, humidity is added to the air and is recirculated to the furnace where the blower motor forces air into the home.

Can I put a humidifier by a cold air return?

Placing the unit near a cold air return will help distribute the humidified air more thoroughly. Make sure you place the humidifier on a flat, level surface. Do not place it directly in front of a hot air duct or radiator.

Can you install a humidifier on the return side?

Proper installation One of the most common questions is where to mount it — on the return or supply side. For most types of humidifiers, it really doesn’t matter, notes Lewis. “The furnace has a negative pressure on the return air and a positive pressure on the warm air side.

Is steam humidifier better?

Steam humidifiers are the most effective, but are more costly to install and operate. If you have high end wood furniture, flooring, have a large home, or need precise humidity control, steam humidifiers are the best option. They require a dedicated electrical service and need annual maintenance.

How much does it cost to install a whole house humidifier?

When installed by a local humidifier specialist, you should expect to pay between $395 and $734 for installation on average. In certain instances, it could cost as much as $1,000. The average cost of a whole house humidifier is between $100 and $300, although high-end models could exceed $1,000.

Can whole house humidifiers cause mold?

If not used properly, here are some issues a whole house humidifier can cause: Excessive moisture can causes mold growth. Moisture can accumulate within your ducts, causing mold to form and then be distributed throughout the air in your home. Humidifier-induced mold sticks to ceilings, walls, windows and attic.

Can I install a humidifier on my furnace myself?

One way is to have a general contractor install it. Or, you can install the humidifier yourself. Whole home humidifiers are easy to install if you are familiar with home improvement projects and HVAC systems. You must have knowledge about the electrical wires, water lines, and air ducts in your home.

Is it easy to add a humidifier to your furnace?

Installing a humidifier is an easy job if you’re replacing your furnace, but you can also have a humidifier fitted to your current system. Air heated by your furnace or heat pump passes through a ceramic-coated pad in the humidifier, called an evaporator pad.