Cool Mist Vs Warm Mist Humidifier can confuse a serious user who has a few health concerns to take care of. But, what is a Humidifier in the first place, and how can we make the most of it? Let us explore further.
Contents
What is a Humidifier?
Simply put, this is an electronic device that is used to increase the moisture content in the immediate environment. This space could be a single room or an entire building altogether; this is done when connected to the HVAC system of the structure. The Humidifiers are used at various places, ranging from simple homes to nurseries, factories to big establishments. The appliance is beneficial when it comes to protecting a certain product from the dangers of ruin from excess humidity. The recommended relative humidity of 30% to 50% is preferred for best health benefits. It must be noted that both low and high humidity levels are considered bad for health and can cause serious effects.
High Humidity Levels :
This is a condition when the moisture levels in the area are higher than required. This causes the room to feel stuffy and can lead to condensation on surfaces like walls, floors, and more. The increased levels of humidity can lead to increased bacterial growth, dust mites, and moulds. For people with sensitive respiratory issues, this can cause major discomforts or trigger an allergic reaction also.
Low Humidity Levels
When the air’s moisture content is less compared to the normal, the situation is referred to as ‘low Humidity Levels.’ This can cause dry skin, irritate the nasal passages, and can also cause the eyes to itch.
Relative Humidity
This is the measure of the water vapour contained in the air as compared to how much water vapour ‘should’ be in the air at a certain temperature. It is measured in percentage and directly reflects our comfort level at a certain place, area, and space. Low values of relative humidity directly imply the fact that moisture evaporates faster from our skin, leaving us feeling cool. Ideally, relative humidity of 45 per cent is considered comfortable indoors.
How Does a Humidifier work?
The main aim of the working of the humidifier is to ‘provide’ moisture into the air. This is done by an arrangement of a reservoir that holds water. This water is later dispensed into a ‘Basin’ with a ‘Wicking filter’ that absorbs the water from the basin. A tiny fan blows the air through the filter, which is heavy with moisture. This air absorbs some of the moisture from the filter as it passes through it. Consequently, with higher Relative Humidity, the evaporation of the water from the filter by the air is decreased. Thus, the humidifier is a self-regulating machine that works following the external humidity.
The humidifier is attached to the heating or cooling system of the house in certain cases. Thus, allowing it to work accordingly. So, when it comes to Cool mist Vs Warm mist humidifier, how do you decide? Let us find out:
What is a Cool Mist Humidifier?
This Humidifier type is designed in a manner to disperse mist at room temperature throughout the space. This Humidifier type utilizes Evaporative or Ultrasonic technologies for its workings.
Advantages of Cool Mist Humidifier
- This type utilizes less electricity in comparison.
- This is a good option when safety is a concern.
Disadvantages of Cool Mist Humidifier
- These are noisier, as these comprise fans located to disperse the air.
- The cool mist humidifier can cause the room temperature to dip down by a few degrees.
What is Warm Mist Humidifier?
The Warm Mist Humidifier comprises an internal heating element that allows the water to reach a boiling point before releasing it into the air.
Advantages of Warm Mist Humidifier
- This is considered to be a healthy option.
- The operation is silent in comparison.
Disadvantages of Warm Mist Humidifier
- Is not well-suited for large spaces.
- Are an expensive option.
- Are difficult to maintain in comparison.
Difference Between Cool Mist and Warm Mist Humidifier
What is the fundamental difference between a cool mist and a warm mist humidifier? Let us explore:
COOL MIST HUMIDIFIER | WARM MIST HUMIDIFIER |
Steam is released at room temperature | Mist is released at boiling temperature |
Comprises of the internal fan | Does not comprise of an internal fan |
Best for large areas and spaces | Best for small spaces and rooms |
Suited for all seasons | Is best suited for cold seasons |
Is preferred by parents | Not preferred by parents |
Is safe for Children | Is not safe for children |
Is noisy | Is silent |
Cool Mist Vs Warm Mist Humidifier: FAQs
The Warm Mist Humidifier is best suited for cough. These can also be used in combination with some medication.
Yes, the Warm Mist Humidifier is well suited to cure bronchitis.
No, the Cool Mist Humidifier does not kill the germs actively. It helps reduce the growth of germs in an environment by increasing the moisture content.
Yes, the warm Mist Humidifier is known to kill the accumulated Bacteria. This is mainly because the high temperatures can kill the microbes in the air.
Yes, running the humidifier all night can result in better sleep, lowered snoring, and reduced congestion if any.
A Humidifier can last for about 2 to 5 years. However, good maintenance is recommended to enhance the life of the humidifier. Also, the type, its usage, and brands are contributing factors when it comes to the life span of a Humidifier.
Cool Mist Vs Warm Mist Humidifier: The Conclusion- Which one is Better?
When it comes to cool mist Vs warm mist humidifier, the Cool Mist Humidifier is much preferred by the parents. This is the reason why more number of this Humidifier type are sold worldwide. However, if you have to combat Cold weather conditions, then it is better to go for the Warm Mist Humidifier.