Humidifiers can help with problems caused by dry air, including dry sinuses, bloody noses and cracked lips. They also can ease symptoms of a cold or other respiratory conditions.
But humidifiers can become a household health hazard if they aren't maintained properly or if humidity levels stay too high. In fact, dirty humidifiers can breed mold or bacteria. If you have allergies or asthma, talk to your doctor before using a humidifier.
Humidifiers are devices that emit water vapor or steam to increase moisture levels in the air. There are several types:
• Central humidifiers are built into home heating and air conditioning systems.
• Ultrasonic humidifiers produce a cool mist with ultrasonic vibration.
• Impeller humidifiers produce a cool mist with a rotating disk.
• Evaporators use a fan to blow air through a wet wick, filter or belt.
• Steam vaporizers use electricity to create steam that cools before leaving the machine. (Avoid this type of humidifier if you have children; hot water inside this type of humidifier may cause burns if spilled.)