How to Clean a Sears Evaporative Humidifier

Switch the humidifier to the "Off" position and keep the device unplugged during the cleaning and disinfecting process.

Firmly grasp the upper motor housing assembly and the water tank with your hands. Slowly lift to detach these parts from the humidifier's base reservoir. Opening the upper housing assembly reveals the filter pad. Lift the pad from its casing.

Take the base reservoir to a sink. Pour out any water located in the base. Open the water tank and pour out the water, as well. Wash out the base and water tank with clean water.

Eliminate scale in the humidifier by pouring water into the base reservoir and adding 8 ounces of undiluted white vinegar to the water. Remove scale from the water tank by filling three-quarters of the tank with water and adding 6 ounces of undiluted vinegar. Close and shake the water tank to loosen any scale.

Scrub off any scale with a non-abrasive cloth.

Remove the water previously poured into the water tank and base reservoir. Rinse both parts to eliminate residue.

Disinfect the water tank and base reservoir after cleaning. Drop a teaspoon of bleach into a gallon of water, then pour this water into the base reservoir. Add water to the water tank and drop a teaspoon of bleach into the water.

Allow the bleach mixture to sit for 20 minutes. Rinse out the water tank and base reservoir with water, then dry both parts with a cloth.