At Airzone HVAC Services we are often asked about whole home humidifiers. One of the most common questions is the cost of installing a humidifier and operating one. Many homeowners do not know if they should have a unit installed in their home. The upfront cost, along with operational cost, are a few variables explored in this article.
Types of Humidifiers
Flow Through Humidifier (also known as bypass): The most common type of humidifier for a whole home solution in Ottawa is the flow through humidifier. This humidifier has a water connection that allows water to run over a pad, which wicks moisture and introduces it into your air stream. This humidity is then transported throughout your home with the aid of the furnace fan.
Fan Powered Humidifier: A fan-powered evaporative humidifier uses an internal fan to move air through its water panel. The HVAC blower still distributes the humidified air through the home. Compatibility, controls and the water connection should be checked for the selected model.
Steam Humidifier: A steam humidifier boils water and delivers steam through the duct system. Capacity, electrical requirements, water quality and installation layout affect suitability; steam does not guarantee the same humidity in every home. See AprilAire’s humidifier guidance for model-specific considerations.
As with all HVAC equipment installations, every home is different and the installation parameters may affect the pricing of your humidifier installation.
Factors include:
- Is there room on your system for a humidifier installation?
- Is there an appropriate drain in the vicinity to tie into the humidifier?
- Is the water supply close to the furnace for ease of installation?
- What size is the home and in turn what size humidifier do you need?
The following ranges were published in 2021 and are historical examples, not current installation quotes. Current pricing depends on the selected model and installation scope:
- Bypass Humidifier:$400-$650
- Fan Powered Humidifier: $500-$900
- Steam Humidifier: $2000-$3000
Operating costs:
Operating costs depend on humidity demand, runtime, the selected equipment, water supply and local utility rates. Ask for an estimate that identifies electricity, water and any water-heating costs, along with the assumptions used. Do not treat an old annual-cost estimate as a forecast for your home.
Risks of Low Humidity
Measure indoor relative humidity before deciding whether to add a humidifier. Wood floors, furniture and instruments may have their own care requirements, but those requirements must be balanced with the home’s tolerance for moisture.
Health Canada advises around 30% relative humidity in colder weather, depending on the building envelope’s tolerance. Reduce humidity if needed to avoid condensation, and address dampness or mould rather than adding more moisture. An instrument’s recommended humidity range is not automatically an appropriate whole-home winter setting.
A humidifier is not a treatment for respiratory illness or a guarantee against colds. For persistent symptoms, seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
Maintenance Costs
Follow the maintenance instructions for the exact model. Evaporative water panels and steam canisters are different consumables; replacement intervals and costs vary. Ask which parts, cleaning and labour are included in a maintenance estimate rather than relying on the historical $30 pad example.
For a current installed price, request a humidifier installation quote. Ask whether the scope includes the unit, controls, water and drain connections, electrical work and applicable taxes. You can also compare the products on our furnace humidifier page.
