Can you use a humidifier and an air purifier together? The answer may surprise you. While it might seem like these two appliances would work well in tandem, the reality is that they can end up canceling each other out.
Can You Use a Humidifier and Air Purifier Together?
Yes, you can use a humidifier and air purifier at the same time. But there are some things that you should keep in mind.
Not every humidifier works perfectly with air purifiers. For example, warm mist humidifiers can damage air purifier filters, especially HEPA filters.
Air purifiers are designed to remove impurities from the air, while humidifiers add moisture to the air.
Both devices can be beneficial for your home, but using them together can negate the effects of both. Here’s a closer look at why this is the case:
The main difference between an air purifier and a humidifier is that an air purifier circulates and cleans the air in a room. In contrast, a humidifier adds moisture to the air.
This can be important in dry climates where adding moisture to the air can help reduce problems like static electricity, dry skin, and bloody noses.
Humidifiers can also help reduce snoring. Air purifiers are better at cleaning the air, and humidifiers are better at adding moisture to the air. However, some models do both.
If you’re trying to decide whether to get an air purifier or a humidifier (or both), it’s important to think about your needs. If you’re mostly concerned about allergies, asthma, or smoking, an air purifier is good.
A humidifier is a good choice if you’re mostly concerned about dryness. Keep in mind that both devices can help with other problems as well.
Use of an Air Purifier
- To remove harmful particles and allergens from the air
- To improve indoor air quality
- To protect against asthma and allergies
- To reduce respiratory problems
- To eliminate cigarette smoke and other odors
Use of a Humidifier
- To add moisture to the air
- To relieve nasal congestion
- To relieve dry skin, lips, and eyes
- To reduce snoring
Types of Air Purifiers
There are four main types of air purifiers: mechanical filters, activated carbon filters, HEPA filters, and ozone generators.
Mechanical Filters
Mechanical filters use various materials, such as cotton or fiberglass, to trap particles in the air. They are the most common type of air purifier and can be found in most homes.
Activated Carbon Filter
Activated carbon filters are made of porous charcoal that absorbs particles and chemicals in the air. They are often used in industrial settings to remove pollutants from the air.
HEPA Filter Air Purifier
A high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter is a plated device that can remove particles from the air. They can trap particles as small as 0.3 microns.
Air Purifier with UV Technology
Ozone generators create ozone, a gas composed of three oxygen atoms. Ozone effectively removes particles and bacteria from the air but can be harmful to humans if inhaled in large amounts.
Types of Humidifier
There are three types of humidifiers: warm mist, cool mist, and ultrasonic. Warm mist humidifiers boil water and release warm steam.
Cool mist humidifiers use a fan to blow room-temperature water into the air. Ultrasonic humidifiers create a fine mist by vibrating water at a high frequency.
Some humidifiers also double as air purifiers, removing airborne contaminants like dust, pollen, and pet dander.
Warm Mist Humidifier
Warm mist humidifiers are not recommended for use with an air purifier because the warm steam can damage the air purifier’s filters.
Cool mist and ultrasonic humidifiers can be used with an air purifier, but you may need to increase the frequency of filter replacements.
Cool Mist Humidifier
It is easier to clean than a warm mist humidifier, and the capacity is similar to a warm mist humidifier.
A Cool Mist Humidifier produces more sound than a warm mist humidifier. A cool-mist humidifier is not recommended for the bedroom at night.
Ultrasonic Humidifier
Ultrasonic humidifier function using the power of waves. A metal diaphragm vibrates, creating water drops that are released into the air in cool fog.
