Q What is the most energy-efficient method for humidifying a small apartment? Why do some have a cool mist and others have a warm mist?
Cool-mist humidifiers work more efficiently
By KAREN YOUSO, Star Tribune
March 14, 2010 at 8:18PM
A Either type of humidifier will do the job, but a cool-mist model probably will be more energy-efficient because it has no heating element. Cool-mist humidifiers also generally cost less off the shelf because you aren't paying for a heating element.
But some people prefer a warm-mist humidifier, believing the warm moisture is better for the nose and throat. There's nothing wrong with that, but by the time it gets to the nose, the temperature is the same. For safety reasons, use cool-mist humidifiers around children to prevent burns if they should get too close. A cool-mist humidifier will make a room cooler, though.
Also consider noise when buying a humidifier, especially one used in a bedroom. Some models can be quite noisy.
Humidifiers add moisture to indoor air, which tends to be dry in winter, but be careful not to over-humidify. It encourages mold growth in your home.
Some humidifiers have devices that prevent them from over-humidifying a space. Or use a hygrometer (measures humidity) to make sure your humidity stays between 35 and 50 percent.
No matter the type of humidifier, you need to keep it clean to prevent bacteria and mold growth. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning. Commercial humidifier-cleaning products are available at hardware and home stores. Or wipe down the humidifier inside and out every day with a solution of 9 parts water to 1 part bleach.
Pass on your puzzles Q Do you know where I can recycle jigsaw puzzles or donate them to be re-used?
A Many re-use organizations accept puzzles for donations, including Arc's Value Village and Goodwill. A great resource for finding such organizations is Hennepin County's Choose to Re-use Directory (www.hennepin.us/choosetoreuse). Click on the link for the directory and select toys as the category, and it will generate quite a list for you.
Angie Timmons, Hennepin County Environmental Services
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