Dry skin? Bloody noses from dry air?
A humidifier can ease these symptoms during the dry, cold winter months. But be careful, when you use a humidifier it is recommended to keep the humidity at a certain level and keep it clean. Dirty humidifiers can produce mold and bacteria which then filters into the air. Minerals can be released in the mist and settle as fine white dust. The white dust may contain particles that can enter the lungs. While the health effects are not quite clear yet, any type of impact on human health depends upon the types and the amounts of minerals found in the water used.
Use the following steps to keep the humidifier clean.
- Replace old humidifiers. Old humidifiers can build mineral deposits that are difficult to remove and contain bacteria growth.
- Use distilled or demineralized water. Tap water contains minerals that can deposit and promote bacteria growth.
- Clean your humidifier every three days. Make sure you unplug the humidifier first. Empty any unused water. Add undiluted white vinegar and let sit for 30-45 minutes. Empty vinegar and use small scrub brush to remove any leftover residue. Rinse.
- Disinfect your humidifier every three days. Remove any mineral deposit and use a 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution. (Found at any local pharmacy usually in the brown bottle). Add the hydrogen peroxide and let sit for 30 minutes. Scrub and rinse the tank after cleaning so no chemicals become airborne.
- Change water daily.
- Change the filter. Read the directions and change the filter as often as the manufacturer recommends.
- Prepare humidifier for storage. When the spring comes prepare your humidifier for proper storage. Follow procedures to properly clean, remove filters and dry the humidifier.
Don't let your humidifier look like this. It should look like this.
Dirty Humidifier Clean Humidifier
For more information on Mold fill out the form below or call Curren Environmental, Inc. at 888-301-1050.
