Installing a whole-house humidifier can help decrease winter issues in Frederick such as flaky skin, a dry nose and cracked lips. Since it works with your heating system, you don’t need to lug a portable humidifier from room to room, sloshing water as you go.
Since this system works with your HVAC system, ductwork and plumbing, you’ll want to request skilled whole-house humidifier installation from an HVAC company like May's Heating & Air. Whole-house humidifier cost is linked to the type of humidifier you choose and how long we need to install it.
To help you choose the best whole-house humidifier for your needs, let’s discuss the different kinds and their estimated fee.
Drum Whole-House Humidifier
Drum humidifiers are the most often installed kind as they’re the most reasonably priced. They often cost between $150–$250 plus installation, according to national averages compiled by HomeAdvisor. They add humidity to your home with a padded spinning wheel, which lifts and disperses water.
They’re available as bypass, which operates when your heating system is heating, or fan-powered, which operates by itself. However, the lower price tag also comes with a higher need for service to avoid mold.
A drum humidifier uses an evaporative pad to move moisture around your house. Depending on how regularly you use the humidifier, you’ll have to replace the pad at least yearly.
Flow-Through Whole-House Humidifier
As the name suggests, flow-through humidifiers move water through an evaporator pad to create humidity. They run between $200–$300, plus installation, according to national averages compiled by HomeAdvisor.
They use more water as opposed to a drum style, but the likelihood of mold is lower since the water flows away once the humidification cycle is complete. You can select between bypass and fan models, but you’ll still have to put in a new pad at least annually.
Steam Whole-House Humidifier
A steam humidifier is known as the best efficiency and requires a minimal amount of maintenance, as it doesn’t require standing water or an evaporative pad. Depending on the options you want, they can range from $300 to more than $1,000, plus installation, according to national averages from HomeAdvisor.
As they can operate without your furnace being on, they may consume a bit more utilities than drum and flow-through types. However, the compromise is that they usually don’t have mold issues.
Make Wintertime Better with a Whole-House Humidifier from May's Heating & Air
Although a whole-house humidifier costs more than a portable model, it gives many benefits a single-room model can’t. Some of those perks involve:
- Keeping wood flooring, cabinets and furniture from drying out
- Creating a better environment for loved ones with respiratory conditions, including asthma
- Alleviating common cold-weather complaints, such as scratchy skin or flaking lips
- Reducing static electricity
Ready to enjoy a more comfy heating season while indoors? Our May's Heating & Air pros can help you choose the right whole-house humidifier for your needs. Give us a call at 301-690-0397 right away to begin the process.