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Furnace mounted units can be by-pass, steam, mist, wick, and powered.
Some mount in the ductwork while others are attached to the
plenums on the furnace. Whatever the model, mineral deposits
from the water will reduce the effectiveness of the humidifier.
Be sure to turn the water and humidistat off before servicing.
Special chemicals can be used to clean mineral deposits, but one of
the safest is vinegar. A 50% mixture of vinegar and water
will usually dissolve or help clean away deposits. If the
humidifier has a drum with a belt, replacement of the belt
at the beginning of the heating season can be the easiest
fix if the water has a high mineral content. If the humidifier
has screens or is the wick type, some corrosion can occur
as well as build up.
Heat pumps and electric furnaces usually have steam humidifiers
to increase output. They are line voltage powered and
must be unplugged or disconnected before servicing to avoid
injury. With the exception of some mist type humidifiers,
all have a reservoir. Stagnant water sitting in the reservoir
during the off season can be a breeding ground for bacteria.
Turn the water off and clean the humidifier if possible when
heating season has ended.
Other than mineral deposits, the most common problem is sediment
in the water supply. The float inlet valve has a tiny hole
that easily clogs. The float is usually made of plastic, and
if cracked will fill with water and sink. The valve will be
stuck open and the reservoir will overflow. Use caution when
scraping deposits off the float. If the deposits cannot be
removed, replace the float or it will sink and cause an overflow.
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