Below are the frequently asked questions we commonly receive in Ottawa concerning humidifiers and the viability of their installations:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Humidifiers By Ottawa Homeowners
Is a humidifier necessary in Canada?
A humidifier can be very useful in the majority of homes in Canada, especially during the winter months when the air can become very dry. This can cause problems such as dry skin, dry nasal passages, and respiratory issues.
Using a humidifier can help to add moisture to the air and alleviate these problems. However, it is not necessary for everyone to use a humidifier. It really depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are experiencing any of the aforementioned issues, it may be worth considering using a humidifier.
Is is worth putting a humidifier on your furnace?
Every home and every person is completely different when it comes to comfort levels and how to achieve those within their homes. When weighing the cost analysis and pros and cons of a humidifier it is generally beneficial to install one. The issues with wood cracking and furniture being ruined can generally be remedied with the installation of a flow through humidifier which can be installed in Ottawa for less than $1000.
Furthermore, the air will feel more comfortable at a lower temperature, meaning you can offset the cost of a humidifier if you can run your furnace at a lower temperature! For people with large homes or old leaky homes, you may need to install a steam humidifier. These units can be more expensive to install and operate but ultimately ensure your home is comfortable.
Can you add a humidifier to an existing furnace?
Most definitely! Some installations may be trickier than others (which is why a home comfort advisor will reach out to discuss installation parameters). Most furnaces have ample space for the humidifier to hang on the return air ductwork and tie into the supply ductwork.
Another parameter is the accessibility to plumbing. Tying into the water system and drainage system are the parameters that generally affect the pricing of an installation the most. If you do not have an existing furnace but are looking to humidify we have stand alone options such as steam humidifiers!
How much does it cost to have a humidifier installed on your furnace?
The cost of having a humidifier installed on your furnace in Ottawa will depend on a number of factors, including the type and size of the humidifier, the type and size of your furnace, and the difficulty of the installation. In general, the cost of installing a humidifier on a furnace can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars.
Generally speaking we see most clients paying $500-$800 for a flow through style humidifier in 2022. A steam humidifier tends to be in the $2000-$3000 range including installation.
What months should you use a humidifier?
We are commonly asked when to operate a humidifier. As each home is different it is always recommended to monitor your humidity levels. Levels between 30%-50% are the recommended levels.
We tend to see people needing added humidity from November-April. That being said it is always crucial to ensure you are staying on top of your levels and adjusting your humidistat accordingly.
What is the most popular humidifier in Ottawa (2022)?
The most popular humidifier in Ottawa for nearly a decade has been the Generalaire 1042. This flow through humidifier combines incredible reliability with an attractive price point. This year the company has changed their product offerings with an updated line.
We predict the Generalaire 3200 will become the go to choice of homeowners for the same reasons that made the 1042 popular. On the steam side of things, the Aprilaire 800 continues to be the go to choice for homeowners and installers alike!
What kind of maintenance is there on a humidifier?
Flow through humidifiers require very little maintenance which is a huge reason they are so popular. Unlink a room humidifier, you do not need to constantly refill a water reservoir. Flow through humidifiers have evaporative pads that should be changed every 1-2 years.
If you live within the city of Ottawa, chances are you have excellent water, meaning you only need to change your pad every two years! For those that live in the country and deal with hard water, you may need to change your pad annually. Finally the only other items involved in a humidifier maintenance are the following:
- Ensuring the drain is clear and clean
- Making sure water is turned on for winter and off for summers
- Ensure damper is in winter or summer position to match season
If you have any other questions about a humidifier for your home please feel free to contact our office at 613 592-5770. AirZone HVAC Services is Ottawa’s indoor air quality specialists and your best choice for humidifier installers.
