A comfortable microclimate in the room is a balance of temperature and humidity. The first indicator depends on the time of year and the operation of heating appliances. To maintain the optimum level of humidity, the apartment is ventilated or using humidifiers.
Norms of humidity of air
Indoor air always contains moisture particles in the form of water vapor. Their concentration depends on temperature, season, type of room. Indicators are established by research. Deviation to the lower side causes the mucous membranes, skin and hair to dry out. Exceeding the norm is also harmful, excess moisture is manifested by condensation on the walls. Dampness leads to the formation of mold, threatening the health of the residents of the apartment.
Moisture rates vary depending on the season:
- winter - optimal 45-60%, permissible 65%;
- summer - recommended 30-45%, permissible 60%.
The microclimate affects not only a person, but also the plants surrounding objects. For them, optimal humidity standards have also been developed:
- indoor flowers - 50-70%;
- office equipment - 45-60%;
- papers, books - 40-60%;
- furniture - 40-60%.
Relative humidity in a room is measured using special instruments - hygrometers. For clarity, their scale is divided into sectors showing comfortable, low or high parameter values.
Dry air hazard
If the moisture level in the air drops below 30%, a person feels discomfort. There is a feeling of dry mouth, coughing, nasal congestion. The skin of the face, hands and body suffers from a lack of moisture, and the hair becomes brittle. A person feels itching and discomfort, the skin ages faster. A lot of dust appears in the room. Viruses and allergens multiply rapidly and attack a weakened organism. Children are especially sensitive to low humidity. They often get sick, become lethargic and lethargic.
Problems arise not only with health. Wooden furniture and parquet quickly lose their natural moisture level. The boards dry out, making a characteristic creak. A humidifier for air will help to solve the problem. The device acts automatically, saturating the surrounding area with water vapor.
The principle of operation of an air humidifier
You can improve the microclimate with the help of a room fountain or a large aquarium. The methods are effective, but require high financial costs and care. Climatic equipment will cost less, and its operation does not require much effort.
All devices work on the principle of turning water into a vapor state. Then a fine suspension enters the room, mixing with air masses. The process takes place cyclically until the moisture level reaches the recommended rate.
Instrument selection rules
Before buying HVAC equipment, it is important to decide on the main parameters. The main criteria:
- The volume of the room. The power of the device depends on it, for small rooms a household humidifier is enough.
- Type of apparatus. Climatic equipment performs one function. But it operates on different principles. There are several types of humidifiers: steam, traditional, ultrasonic.Models have their advantages and disadvantages, which are studied in advance.
- Tank capacity. The volume of liquid being poured affects the duration of the apparatus. The larger it is, the less often it will have to be filled.
- Additional functions. Devices with advanced features are sold, including a built-in hygrometer, a low-noise motor, a timer, touch control, and the installation of various types of cartridges.
Climatic devices should have a function of automatic shutdown after evaporation of the entire volume of liquid. It will ensure safe operation.
When choosing, it should be noted that the built-in hygrometer or hygrostat is not always a plus of the model. Its sensors measure humidity around the device, where the air is most saturated with steam. The device turns off without fully fulfilling its functions. In this case, it is worthwhile to install a fan nearby, creating a forced circulation.
Varieties of humidifiers and their characteristics
The work of various types of climatic equipment gives the same effect - achieving the optimal level of humidity in the room. There are 3 main types of devices: hot or cold humidifiers and ultrasonic models.
Traditional
Climatic apparatus of the simplest design. It consists of a body, a tank and a water tray, a float unit, as well as a cartridge or a removable element made of absorbent material. Devices operate on the principle of natural air humidification. A built-in fan lets air flow through the humidified cartridge. Simultaneously with water saturation, the air is cleaned of dust particles.
Pluses of models:
- cold steam is safe;
- no power consumption (16-60 watts depending on the model);
- use of tap water is possible;
- low noise level;
- affordable cost.
Disadvantages:
- low productivity;
- frequent replacement of paper inserts.
The optimum moisture content is maintained automatically. When reaching a maximum of 60%, the work stops. It is recommended to install the device near radiators and other heat sources.
Steam
Inside the device, water is poured, which is brought to a boil by heating elements. Hot steam quickly increases the humidity in the room, raising the temperature by 2-3 ° C. Climatic equipment is simple in execution and does not have filters for air purification. The destruction of bacteria and microbes occurs by heating the liquid to 100 ° C. The devices are characterized by high performance and are able to raise the humidity level to 70-80%.
Pros:
- budget cost;
- high power
- there are no restrictions on the maximum moisture;
- the device can be used as an inhaler.
Minuses:
- increased power consumption;
- risk of burns.
The appliance can increase the humidity in the house above the desired value. To prevent this situation, you should choose a model with a built-in hygrometer. The sensor will turn off the device after reaching a normal humidity level.
Ultrasonic
The most technologically advanced climate technology has in its design a special membrane with a high vibration frequency. The principle of operation of an ultrasonic air humidifier is to break up particles of water into tiny drops. A fan drives air through the mist. As a result, moisture enters the room. A filter installed in the housing traps dust particles, improving the general condition of the air.
Pros:
- minimum consumption of electricity;
- the ability to quickly change the performance of the device;
- safety;
- lack of noise;
- Advanced models purify and ionize the air.
Less - the use of untreated water leads to the ingress of microbes present in the liquid into the air.
The devices are equipped with liquid level sensors and hygrometers. When all the water evaporates or when the set humidity parameter is reached, they automatically turn off.
The benefits and harms of an air humidifier
Dried air in the house affects adults and children. Using climate technology helps maintain a favorable microclimate. Models with additional functions are used for purification, ionization and aromatization of air. A sufficient amount of moisture enhances immunity and performance. Devices are indispensable for growing exotic plants that require a high level of humidity. They are installed not only in apartments, but also in greenhouses, greenhouses.
Device cons
Harm from climatic equipment appears only if it is used improperly or when low-quality models are purchased. Most often, problems arise with steam appliances. A hot stream can damage furniture, wallpaper or cause skin burns. To avoid unpleasant situations, you should install the device according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Do I need a device in winter
In winter, when the heating season begins, dry air becomes a real problem. Hot radiators and other heaters reduce the percentage of moisture. Such a microclimate harms people's health, negatively affects plants, furniture, books. Airing partially solves the problem, but the low temperature does not allow it to be performed often. Sealed plastic windows and round-the-clock battery heating contribute to creating a dangerous indoor climate.
It is in winter that the use of climate technology is relevant. To improve the well-being of patients with acute respiratory viral infections and other respiratory diseases, as well as for preventive purposes, doctors advise using air humidifiers.
Instruction for use
Before turning on the device, read the instructions. The manufacturer gives recommendations on the quality of the filled water, the parameters of the power supply.
- The use of purified liquid allows less frequent change of filters, protects structural elements from scale and the formation of limescale.
- After the humidifier is finished, it is necessary to drain the remaining water. It increases the number of bacteria that, when turned on again, will enter the air.
- In the interval between applications, it is desirable to dry the apparatus.
- Do not install it near walls, furniture, on a smooth or unstable surface.
If the device falls during operation, it is immediately disconnected from the power supply.
Features of models and additional functions
A popular model among traditional humidifiers Boneco E2441. Inside the device there is an antibacterial filter that provides increased humidity and air purification. For water disinfection, a silver rod is installed, designed for a year of operation. The device operates in two modes. With minimal power, a low noise level allows you to use it at night or in children's rooms. The kit includes a container for aromatic substances.
Ultrasonic humidifier Tefal Aqua Perfect HD5230 made in a stylish black housing with an LCD display. The touch panel allows you to easily adjust the power of the steam, switch the device to night mode. The humidifier nozzle rotates 360 °, heading in the right direction. An additional feature is warm steam, which has an antibacterial effect. The device works with minimal noise, equipped with a built-in hygrometer. The capacious tank is designed for 30 hours of operation.
Steam humidifier Boneco S450 with a productivity of 550 g / h is able to improve the microclimate in a room with an area of up to 60 square meters. m. The model can be used for inhalation with drugs and aromatherapy. Procedures are useful in the treatment of diseases of the upper respiratory tract, they strengthen the immune system. The device has an LED display with touch control. Equipped with a three-level security system makes the operation of the device simple and reliable.
Place for a humidifier
In order for the operation of the device to bring maximum benefit, it is necessary to choose the right place for its placement. The heavy air saturated with steam quickly goes down to avoid using a stand in the form of a shelf or a stool. Installation height parameters are:
- minimum - 50 cm;
- maximum - 100 cm.
Dimensional devices with a capacity of about 9 liters do not require a stand, so they are placed on the floor. They can be placed close to the battery. In this case, the warm air masses will be saturated with moisture and distributed throughout the room.
The humidifier should not be directed at wallpaper, upholstered or cabinet furniture. An excellent choice of a shelf with indoor plants that need a humid microclimate. An important factor is the distance from the outlet. After all, the device is powered by electric current. When installing a humidifier in a children's room, parents should take care of safety. The device is placed outside the reach of the child.
Creating a comfortable microclimate in the room is a concern for the health and well-being of family members. The use of any type of humidifier will help to avoid diseases, preserve the beauty and youth of the skin.
