All of our home systems require a little TLC every now and then. We want to keep our homes running properly and ensure the health of our families. G & R Heating and Air is here to share one more system that needs a little attention: humidifiers!
Just like it’s important to get routine maintenance on your AC, furnace and other HVAC equipment, it’s also important to ensure your humidifier is properly maintained. One of the most important steps to keep your humidifier maintained is to regularly change the humidifier pad (also known as a water panel). Read on to learn more about changing your humidifier pad in Gilberts.
Why Do I Need To Change My Humidifier Pad?
A humidifier pad is essential to your humidifier’s function. The pad is the piece that becomes saturated with water, which is used to humidify the home. As the air in your HVAC system blows over the pad, moisture is added to the air. This is especially important during the winter when the hot air generated by your furnace will quickly dry out the air.
While it may just be water being added to the air, our skilled technicians recommend switching out the humidifier pad at least once a year. Keeping up with this task will ensure you don’t experience some negative side effects:
- Mineral build-up — as the water sits in the pad, minerals are transferred to the material. Over time, these minerals can build up, a lot like the scale you may deal with on your dishes or plumbing components.
- Mold and bacteria growth — As water sits in the pad, the potential for mold growth increases. Mold and bacteria love moist places, putting you and your family at risk if these tiny particles enter into your air.
- Increased energy costs — If your humidifier pad is clogged, the air passing through the pad requires more energy to reach your home. This could cause your system to use more energy to achieve the same result.
How Often Should You Change The Pad?
Generally, we recommend changing the humidifier pad once a year. This gives most homes the best bet for clean and moist air. However, there are a few extra factors to take into account that affect the frequency of this maintenance task.
Watch The Weather
Weather plays a big factor in how often you’ll need to change out your humidifier pad. If it’s been a long, cold and dry winter — something very familiar to us here in Chicagoland — the humidifier pad may need to be replaced again before the season is over.
The longer the same pad stays in your humidifier, bacteria and other contaminants can grow on it. This can cause damage and affect the way that your humidifier works — but most importantly, it can affect the air quality in your home. The buildup of bacteria and other contaminants can cause mold growth, which can lead to leaks and overall system failure.
Your Home’s Water Quality
The water in your home also plays a factor. Depending on the levels of minerals and calcium in your water, this can impact your humidifier’s functioning and may lead to drainage issues. For those who have hard water or well water, for example, it’s recommended to have the humidifier pad replaced more often than just once per year.
I Need Help With My Humidifier Pad
If you have any questions about your existing whole-home humidification system — or would like to have a new one installed — give our friendly staff at G & R Heating and Air a call today to set up an appointment! We can answer any questions you have, tell you more about the benefits of a whole-home humidifier, and give you a quote over the phone for your new whole-home humidifier.
We carry and install top brands such as Aprilaire to ensure your lasting comfort. You can contact us online or give us a call today!