Dry winter air leads many people to consider using a humidifier. The two main types of humidifiers are warm-mist and cool-mist humidifiers. While both offer humidifying qualities, there are slight differences between the two types in terms of how they operate. Understanding those differences can help you to decide which option best fits your needs.
Purpose
Both warm-mist and cool-mist humidifiers add moisture to the air. Humidity in the air prevents dry skin and sinuses for greater comfort during dry times. Humidifiers also help ease cold and respiratory symptoms that cause breathing difficulties or congestion.
Function
Warm-mist humidifiers or vaporizers heat the water to convert it to steam before it is released into the room. The steam from the warm-mist humidifier is cooled before it exits the machine. Cool-mist humidifiers produce the mist in different ways, depending on the type. Ultrasonic humidifiers use an ultrasonic vibration, impeller humidifiers use a rotating disk and evaporators use a fan and wet filter or belt to create the mist.
Cleaning
The water in humidifiers creates the potential for bacteria or mold growth, which presents health risks if dispersed into the air. Both warm and cool humidifiers need cleaning on a regular basis to avoid growth. A warm-mist humidifier decreases the chances of contaminants being released into the room because of the vaporizing step, according to MayoClinic.com.
Safety
Cool-mist humidifiers are generally considered safe for children, especially humidifiers with a small reservoir opening that restricts access to the water. A warm-mist humidifier presents a slight risk for burn because of the heating element inside. If your child accesses the heated water or heating element, she may get a burn on her skin.
Cost
Cool-mist humidifiers typically cost less to initially purchase. They might also use less energy because they don't need extra electricity to heat the water. Cheaper cool-mist humidifiers often work better with distilled water, which reduces deposits inside. Purchasing distilled water for the machine adds to the total operating cost. New filters also add to the cost.
