Replacing a Humidifier Filter

The humidifier filter is the most important part of a humidifier and requires the most in terms of maintenance. But since we are going to be opening the unit to install a replacement filter we might as well clean the darn thing in the process. A humidifier wick filter is usually made of paper, foam or cloth and some can be cleaned and reused depending on the manufacturer's instructions that came with the packaging. Whenever there is an option to reuse the filter, it is usually a better idea to simply replace it with a new filter since most models use cheap filters. It is a way of ensuring that the filter is clean and free of any potentially hazardous particles. An excessively dirty filter is essentially a useless filter when it is too full to trap any more pollutants. It is also important to use a replacement filter that fits perfectly.

How often a filter is replaced depends on how much the unit has been used. The simple way of checking is by looking for build up on the filter. If there isn't much build up visible, but the filter has not been changed in over a year then it is due for a replacement since there may be invisible micro dust and things like mold and bacteria.

The first step is to unplug the humidifier from the power source. This is obvious to most people as it should be done when opening any electrical appliance. Since a humidifier uses water to wet the filter and moisten the air, it is even more important since water is highly conductive. The following procedures will apply to most common evaporative humidifier filters. These instructions are written with the Holmes humidifier filter in mind as they tend to be among the most popular of tabletop sized units.

After the unit has been unplugged from the wall it is time to empty and clean the water tank or reservoir. Empty out the water tank and rinse it first. Then, using common household bleach we are going to disinfect the water tank by filling the tank with water and one tablespoon of bleach. This will eliminate any potential mold or bacteria that developed in the sitting water.

Set the water tank aside and proceed to open the motor housing that covers the majority of the humidifier. This is the opportunity to wipe or vacuum any dust on and around the open surfaces. Do not open the unit any further than this or else the manufacturer warranty will be voided. If there is need for deeper cleaning, hire a professional or contact the manufacturer for support.

With the housing out of the way, the filter should be obviously visible. It should lift out easily. Although it is recommended that a new replacement filter be used, some models allow the filter to be washed and reused. If this is the case, it would be a good idea to vacuum the filter a little before attempting to wash it. The amount of dust and debris in the filter would cause a mess without the vacuuming. The filter can be replaced wet so be sure not to squeeze or wring the filter dry as this may cause a tear which would render the filter useless.

Before replacing the unit, clean the base of the humidifier with a cup of undiluted white vinegar. Simply let the vinegar sit there for about 20 minutes, and then pour the water containing bleach from the tank to disinfect the base. Rinse the base and clean it with water until there is no vinegar or bleach left. Do the same to the water tank to rid of the bleach solution.

Putting the unit together should be easy enough. There really should only be three parts so first place the new or cleaned filter back into place. Then cover the humidifier with the motor housing and refill the water tank and position it into place. Or dry the water tank and put it into place if the unit is to be stored. Now everything is clean and ready to work as good as new.

There are many reasons why people can benefit from a humidifier but the important thing is that it is used and maintained properly. If, for whatever reason, you wish not to deal with replacing the filter there are filter free humidifiers available on the market. This is almost a totally different animal so be sure to follow the user instructions carefully as improper use might pose a health risk. It is crucial not to over humidify a room and follow simply guidelines by the manufacturer such as using the right sized machine for the space to be humidified.

One of the biggest brands in the whole-house category is the Aprilaire humidifier filter. If you own a whole-house humidifier system, also known as a furnace humidifier and requires a furnace humidifier filter and need instructions on replacing the water panel, here is an instruction video on how to do that. The creator of this video is not affiliated with this article in anyway.