Ultrasonic humidifier: pros and cons, tips for choosing and using

For a comfortable stay in his own home, a person needs favorable conditions, among which is the standard air humidity. If it is too dry or too wet, the body reacts quickly. Skin and breathing problems appear, and chronic diseases are exacerbated.

An ultrasonic humidifier will perfectly cope with the task of forming an optimal composition for life: we will analyze the pros and cons of the device in detail in this article.

And if you want to purchase an effective and safe device for your own use, we will show you what characteristics you need to pay attention to and how to choose a model for your home.

The content of the article:

  • Distinctive features of an ultrasonic humidifier
  • The advantages of buying a u / s device for the home
    • Plus # 1 - wide range of humidity
    • Plus # 2 - automatic control of air parameters
    • Pro # 3 - Low Noise
    • Plus # 4 - small size
    • Plus # 5 - impressive design
    • Plus # 6 - the ability to do it yourself
  • Disadvantages of a household appliance with a membrane
  • Recommendations for choosing the best model
  • Terms of use and care
  • Conclusions and useful video on the topic
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Distinctive features of an ultrasonic humidifier

The microclimate in the room is constantly changing, as it is influenced by the weather outside, and heating in the cold season, and problems with ventilation. To somehow regulate the level of humidity, air humidifiers are used - devices that artificially maintain the necessary parameters.

All types of air humidifiers are designed to saturate it with moisture - it is easy to understand even from the name of the devices. The main difference between the devices lies in principle of work - that is, in how the water is distributed over the surrounding space.

Indoor humidity table

In the winter season, due to the intensive work of heating devices in residential premises, the air becomes extremely dry - the humidity drops to 23-30% and below, while the norm is 45-60%

According to the principle of operation, there are 3 types of humidifiers:

  • traditional;
  • steam;
  • ultrasonic.

If in the first, water, in order to get into the air, is driven through a wet filter, and in the second, it evaporates from heating, then in ultraviolet devices it is split into tiny particles under the action of emitter.

Ultrasonic humidifier design diagram

Design diagram of an ultrasonic humidifier. Main elements: ultrasonic membrane, fan, atomizer; additional: heater, filter cartridge for softening water, ultrasonic lamp

Let's consider how the spraying process takes place. Water, previously poured into the tank and filtered, is dosed into the vaporization chamber. Before that, it is slightly warmed up. In the lower part of the chamber there is an emitter - a piezoceramic part with silver-coated electrodes.

As soon as power is applied to the emitter, it goes into vibration mode. When the speed of ultrasonic vibrations reaches certain parameters, under their influence, the water in the chamber breaks up into microscopic droplets. Essentially, it turns into an aerosol.

Ultrasonic humidifiers in the interior

Moisture comes out of the device in the form of a trickle of mist, which is sprayed in a given direction or in all directions. The humidity in the room rises, as can be judged by the data of the hygrometer

Instruments that had to be controlled manually were replaced by more modern automatic models. They independently monitor the humidity level and, when the set values ​​are reached, turn off the device. As soon as the parameters fall below the norm, the humidifier starts functioning again.

Externally, ultrasonic models also differ from standard humidifiers and cleaners: they are more compact, often made in an unusual design, and are more often designed to be installed on a table.

The advantages of buying a u / s device for the home

Why do buyers often prefer ultrasonic humidifiers? We will try to answer this question by sorting out the advantages of these home appliances on the shelves.

Plus # 1 - wide range of humidity

Modern devices, especially those from the category of expensive and equipped with additional functions, have the ability to adjust humidity. Using the buttons or the touch panel, you can set the parameters required for the room.

The range of adjustment is different, and in some models it reaches an amplitude of 20 to 90%.

Ultrasonic humidifier in the bedroom

It is believed that a humidifier is not needed in the kitchen or bathroom - it is already humid enough there thanks to the constant use of tap or shower water. But for a bedroom or study, the device is simply necessary.

Effective hydration will not hurt in special places such as a home greenhouse: plants need a special spraying regime for them to develop well and bloom luxuriantly.

Plus # 2 - automatic control of air parameters

Thanks to the automation of household appliances, the user can calmly go about their business, and not follow the readings of the hygrometer.

The humidifiers are equipped with sensitive humidity sensors that transmit signals to an electronic board. As soon as the indicator falls below the norm, the device begins to operate and fill the room with "fog". Gradually, the humidity reaches the norm, the sensors react again and stop the operation of the device. This happens all the time.

Operating modes on the control panel

To make it easier to navigate the settings, manufacturers have introduced separate options - special operating modes. With them, the user does not need to adjust the humidity by time or state, the humidifier will do everything for him.

Popular modes include "night", "child", "warm steam" modes. To understand what he is capable of your chosen humidifier, first take a look at the instructions - the names and nuances of the modes for devices of different manufacturers may differ.

Pro # 3 - Low Noise

Noise for home appliances is one of the most important indicators. Imagine the discomfort you might experience if all appliances in your home start operating with noise levels of 35 dB or higher - you just want to run away from home.

Noise level diagram in dB

The diagram shows which noise level is easily tolerated by human hearing, and which is critical for it.

Some high-powered appliances make a very strong hum - for example, a hairdryer or a vacuum cleaner. However, their difference is that they work for a limited period of time, relatively short. And the humidifier, in contrast to them, periodically turns on throughout the day, including at night.

That is why most of the models have a maximum noise level of 22-30 dB on average, and in the "night" mode they work even quieter - not so much annoying as calming the residents. With the ten best models working almost silently, he will acquaint next article, which we recommend to read.

Plus # 4 - small size

Unlike traditional and steam units, UV appliances look small. Of course, among them there are also volumetric models that can hold up to 6 liters of water, but they are more of an industrial type, as they are designed for spacious premises - halls, waiting rooms, foyers of entertainment establishments, and not for residential rooms.

Small ultrasonic humidifier on the table

The small size of the humidifier becomes important if you plan to constantly move it from place to place: rearrange it from the bedroom to the nursery or take it to the summer cottage

Household appliances for bedrooms and living rooms have a built-in water tank of no more than 3 liters, and decorative tabletop models - from 0.2 to 1.0 liters. They fit easily on a bedside table, desk, shelf, but it is better to install them away from furniture - why, you will find out in the next section of the article.

Plus # 5 - impressive design

If productive powerful models with a large tank, designed for an area of ​​\ u200b \ u200b70-100 m2, look traditional - technically and minimalist, then compact household devices have an original, and often futuristic or funny design.

3-in-1 ultrasonic humidifiers

There are a huge number of tabletop models on the market, including for children. Especially the Chinese have succeeded in this, realizing devices of the "3-in-1" type - a humidifier, a lamp and a USB-connected fan.

The beautiful compact humidifier automatically moves from the category of household appliances to the category of accessories for interior decoration, therefore, models with an unusual design are in demand no less effective, but outwardly standard devices.

Plus # 6 - the ability to do it yourself

This plus will be appreciated by everyone who is used to relying on their own skills in the repair or modernization of household appliances.

Ultraviolet humidifiers have a difficult design for an amateur to understand, but some problems can be solved on their own. Most often, devices break down due to water hitting the electronic board, mechanical damage due to falling or due to improper cleaning.

Ultrasonic humidifier electronics

Electronic "stuffing" of the ultrasonic humidifier: a power board that creates a voltage supplied to the generator and then to the amplifier of ultrasonic vibrations of the emitter

You can repair the board yourself, replace the piezoelectric element, filter or fan. If the breakdown is not corrected on its own, the service center masters will cope with it.

Inexpensive humidifiers, costing 400-600 rubles, are often beyond repair, but due to the low price, you can always purchase a new, more convenient and practical model.

The advantages include energy efficiency and safety of devices. Unlike steam models, they do not heat water up to + 80 ° С, they create so-called "cold steam".

Disadvantages of a household appliance with a membrane

The main disadvantage is the appearance of white bloom on all surfaces in the room, including carpets, shelves in the closet, and a TV screen.

The point is in mineral impurities, which are found in large quantities in tap water. Even if you use purified water, a slight whitish bloom cannot be avoided.

Spraying water with impurities

If in steam units most of the deposits remain in the device, then in ultrasonic units all chemical elements are sprayed together with water droplets in the surrounding space

To reduce the amount of minerals in the water, manufacturers have equipped the devices with cleaning filters. Thanks to them, there are no traces of the humidifier on furniture and other surfaces. Some users use distilled water.

But using devices with filters, you need to remember about the timely replacement of expenditures - and these are additional expenses.

Recommendations for choosing the best model

When choosing a humidifier for the home, everything is taken into account: both the external attractiveness, and the technical characteristics, and the features of operation. Let's consider the main criteria that you need to pay attention to:

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In standard apartments, the area of ​​rooms rarely exceeds 20 m², with the exception of spacious studios. It is recommended to take a device designed for a slightly larger area. For example, for an 18-meter room, a humidifier is suitable, the instructions of which indicate a maximum of 20-25 m²

It is believed that for city apartments, in which the air is as dry as possible, it is necessary to purchase devices with a capacity of at least 350-400 ml / h. If the humidity in the room is slightly below normal, then an apparatus with a capacity of 150-250 ml / h is sufficient.

For domestic use, they do not buy powerful appliances, but prefer economical, but productive models for 20-45 watts. For industrial purposes, this power is not enough, therefore, units of 140 W and more are produced.

It all depends on your goals. If you need a tabletop toy device that you plan to use daily, then 200-300 gram is enough tanks for water, but for an automatic humidifier operating around the clock, the tank must be at least 3 l

This criterion is not so important if the humidifier is programmed to operate while you are away from home. In other cases, you need to purchase equipment that will work quietly both day and night - preferably with a noise level of up to 25-30 dB

The plastic body of the device weighs a little, while the bulk depends on the volume of the water tank. When the reservoir is full, the humidifier can weigh up to 7 kg. Decorative tabletop models weigh much less, often from 0.5 to 1 kg

The simplest inexpensive models are equipped with mechanics - a pair of rotating knobs or buttons. Expensive devices with a hygrometer and a set of additional functions are equipped with an electronic display with indication and a touch panel

The most advanced models have a complete set: the possibility of ionization, aromatization, liquid disinfection, fan speed control or evaporation, several modes. Some of them are equipped with a beautifully illuminated water tank, and the colors can be changed.

Criterion # 1 - room area

Criterion # 2 - moisture intensity

Criterion # 3 - device power

Criterion # 4 - volume of the water tank

Criterion # 5 - noise level

Criterion # 6 - dimensions and weight

Criterion # 7 - control panel

Criterion # 8 - additional features and options

Convenient humidifiers with a remote control - no need to jump up every time to change the mode or turn on the backlight. Some users prefer devices with sound indication - as soon as the water in the tank runs out, they give a signal.

Of course, you should pay attention to such a nuance as the length of the power cord. The 1.8 meter standard is not always enough for a comfortable installation, so you have to take care of an extension cord, preferably with a protective fuse.

Terms of use and care

With some the advantages of the u / s humidifier you will have to say goodbye if you do not follow the operating requirements. Do not forget that all humidifiers are volatile devices that operate on the electrical network, so they are a priori dangerous if handled carelessly.

Ultrasonic humidifier in the center of the room

The best place to install a humidifier is in a clear space in the center of the room. So the moisture will spread evenly around the entire perimeter of the room.

Some operating standards are prescribed by the manufacturer, others are well known and do not require reflection in the instructions.

So, in order for the humidifier to work for a long time, properly and not cause trouble, follow the rules:

  • Remove the reservoir for filling with water only when the power is disconnected.
  • Use filtered water. If filters are installed in the device, they are changed in time.
  • When using hard water, deposits are deposited inside the structure. To prevent this from happening, the device is regularly cleaned with a citric acid solution (for 1 liter - 30 grams of dry matter).
  • In addition to citric acid, it is allowed to use vinegar, special means for plastic, soap solutions without antibacterial inclusions, antiscale.
  • For reading, do not use alcohol solutions, acid other than citric acid, chemical solvents, oils, bleaches, abrasives, hard brushes. It is also prohibited to wash parts of the appliance in a dishwasher.
  • The body of the apparatus is wiped with a micro-fleece cloth soaked in water, the reservoir is taken out, soaked and wiped, and the internal elements are also soaked in the solution for 15 minutes.

If the device has an electronic display or indication - carefully follow the signals and follow the prompts. Manufacturers have tried to make it as comfortable as possible for users of u / f devices to use them.

If the device breaks down and the breakdown cannot be corrected by yourself, we recommend contacting the service center. The warranty for some devices is 1 or 2 years, during this time you are obliged to repair or replace the equipment free of charge.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Expert advice on choosing a household humidifier:

Comparative overview of conventional and ultrasound models:

A fly in the ointment - about the only but obvious disadvantage of an ultrasonic device:

According to doctors, normal humidity in a living room is just as necessary for a comfortable stay as heating or the presence of water. If you want to improve a healthy environment, be sure to find a humidifier.

An ultrasound machine is one of the most useful household appliances that has not received due attention to this day. It is quiet, efficient and energy efficient. And if we take into account all the pros and cons of the device, then it largely outperforms alternative options - steam or traditional humidifiers.

Would you like to share your own experience with an ultrasonic humidifier? You have useful information on the topic of the article. Share information, ask questions, post photos and comments in the block form below.

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