Humidifiers: Reviews

Overall, experts recommend cool-mist humidifiers more often than other types. Cool-mist humidifiers don't boil water (so there's no burn risk) and they are more energy efficient than warm-mist humidifiers. The Kenmore… 15408 humidifier is a cool-mist model that performs very well in testing; its humidistat allows the unit to maintain a preset target humidity level, and it can humidify up to 1,700 square feet. The humidifier has a double-fill system that reduces the number of times that it needs to be refilled over the course of a day. While this model outputs 8 gallons of water each day, the tank itself holds 2.4 gallons. A display alerts you when it's time to refill the tank or replace the wick filter. The downside (as with all cool-mist models) is the ongoing cost of replacement filters, roughly every 60 to 90 days at a cost of $18 each.

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For the price, the compact Honeywell HCM-630 provides good moisture output -- 3 gallons a day -- and features that make it easy to use, including automatic shutoff, adjustable humidity control, three moisture output… settings and a dishwasher-safe base. Most owners say the little Honeywell humidifier is a good choice for a bedroom, but you'll need to fill it often because of the smallish tank, which holds 1.5 gallons. The major complaint is filter cost, which runs about $13 every six weeks to three months, according to owners. Owners do comment on the noise level, but nearly all of them say it doesn't keep them up at night. The larger Kenmore 15408 (*Est. 110) can humidify a larger area. And owners don't complain so much about the cost of filters, which don't need to be replaced as frequently.

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While experts say cool-mist humidifiers are better overall, the Honeywell HWM-450 warm-mist humidifier is an option if you want a model that can also make a room feel warmer during the winter. However, be aware that we… found more vocal complaints about the durability of warm-mist humidifiers than about cool-mist models in general. One plus is that there are no ongoing filter costs (though regular cleaning is required). The Honeywell HWM-450 has an LCD readout to display humidity settings. One caution is that the hot water can be a burn hazard. Also, these models use more energy because they have a heating element. This humidifier outputs 4 gallons per day -- enough to humidify 1,400 square feet -- and has a 1.5 gallon tank.

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The Air-O-Swiss 7135 Ultrasonic humidifier can generate either warm or cool mist, handy for both summer and winter. With no fan or boiling water, ultrasonic models run in near silence. The Air-O-Swiss has an ionic silver… stick to prevent microbial growth. A replaceable cartridge minimizes white dust, and its 2-gallon tank is detachable and transparent. It's more expensive to buy and maintain than the cool- and warm-mist models, but reviews say this humidifier is worth the extra cost if low maintenance and quiet operation is a priority. Coverage is rated for about 650 square feet. Like all ultrasonic humidifiers, the Air-O-Swiss may produce white dust if non-distilled water is used in it.

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