Are Air Purifiers & Humidifiers Different?

Humidifiers

• A humidifier is a device used in homes to help relieve the physical ailments associated with dry lips, dry skin, dry throat and dry nose, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Humidifiers release moisture into the air, easing the burden of these symptoms. The moisture released by a humidifier also aids against the effects of winter heating, such as static electricity and furniture and paint cracking. However, you should not use a humidifier in excess, according to the EPA. Excessive use can lead to the proliferation of biological organisms within your home such as dust mites.

Purifiers

• Air purifiers are slightly different from humidifiers. An air purifier is constructed to reduce --- or eliminate --- the concentration of airborne contaminants such as smoke, mold, dust and pollen. When they first entered the market, air purifiers were referred to as air cleaners. You can purchase an air purifier designed to clean a specific room or area, or one designed to purify an entire house. Air purifiers can be portable or permanently installed within your home. While both a humidifier and a purifier can reduce indoor ailments, the purifier does not release moisture into the air.

Types

• Air purifiers are constructed using different technologies. According to Air Purifiers.com, purifiers that use HEPA, UV, activated carbon and electrostatic technology are the best for cleaning indoor air without causing harm to you in the process. Air purifiers that use ozone technology have been shown to harm pets and humans, causing asthma symptoms and scarring of the lungs. There are different types of humidifiers as well, including ultrasonic and impeller versions. An ultrasonic humidifier uses ultrasonic sound vibrations to create cool mist, while an impeller uses a rotating disk to produce cool mist. Humidifiers can be portable, encased in a cabinet or installed in air conditioning and heating systems.

Proper Care

• Both humidifiers and air purifiers must be taken care of properly if you want them to work as intended. Portable humidifiers should be cleaned every three days and have their water changed daily, according to the EPA. Keep the area around your humidifier dry. Always make sure to change the filter in your air purifier as recommended by the owner's manual. Different types of filters --- such as HEPA filters or carbon filters --- need to be changed at different times. The website Achooallergy.com offers a free program that will send you a reminder to change your filter at the appropriate time. See the Resources section for more information.