Humidifiers are a great way to beat dry weather, but it's import to pick the correct type for your specific needs.

Anyone who lives in dry conditions probably knows all the problems a lack of humidity can cause: dry and itchy skin, chapped lipped, nose bleeds, and more.  Fortunately, using a humidifier to beat the dryness is easy and effective.  And in the last couple of decades, technology has progressed so that there are many varieties of humidifiers to choose from.

While there are many kinds of humidifiers to choose from, a handful of types standout as the most popular.  First, there are warm mist humidifiers (also called vaporizer or steam humidifiers).  As the name suggests, this variety heats the water to a high temperature before diffusing it into the air.  On the opposite end of the spectrum are cool mist humidifiers (sometimes called impeller humidifiers).  As you could probably guess, this type does not heat the water. There are also ultrasonic humidifiers, a high-tech variety that uses ultrasonic frequencies to create something like a fog.  Finally, there are furnace humidifiers, which are connected to the central heating system of a house or building.  These come in several different types.

No matter what humidifier you choose, they work in the same basic fashion.  Humidifiers have a place to put water called a reservoir.  The water will be pumped into the air in surrounding area, and the method will vary depending on the variety of humidifier.  Therefore, all that you have to do to run a humidifier (maintenance aside) is to keep it supplied with water.  Some models, like most warm mist humidifiers, are actually simple, while ultrasonic humidifiers can be rather complex.

Regardless of what type of humidifier you are using, it's important to take some safety precautions, because when used incorrectly, humidifiers can potentially make you sick.  Most humidifiers need to be cleaned regularly to fight bacteria or mold.  Always read the directions before use.

To get the most out of any humidifier, it's best to keep the humidity level between 30% and 50%.  If you go overboard with a humidifier and send the humidity level above 50%, you're inviting mold growth and respiratory problems to occur.  On the other hand, humidity levels that are under 30% can cause dry skin, bloody noses, and the like.  If your humidifier doesn't measure humidity, then it would be a good idea to purchase a hygrometer.  These devices measure the humidity and looks like a thermometer, so they are easy to use.

So even though humidifiers can cause problems when used incorrectly, they are safe and beneficial when the directions are followed, and they really do work.  Be sure to check the other sections of this site to see what kind of humidifier best suits your needs.