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An ultrasonic air humidifier pushes microscopic water droplets into the air. They’re made by a metal or ceramic diaphragm that vibrates at an extremely high frequency.
Then, the water evaporates and helps raise the indoor humidity level of your space. However, this method doesn’t create the same type of vapor as a vaporizer or warm mist humidifier does.
Humidifiers that don’t boil water
A good ultrasonic air humidifier works by pushing microscopic water droplets into the air. This happens when an element vibrates at a high frequency (it’s above the range of human hearing).
However, the minerals in tap water can cause white dust to be produced by these devices. That’s why it’s important to use distilled water with them, or at least spring water that has been demineralized.
These appliances also don’t have a filter to catch mineral scale deposits, which can build up and need to be cleaned regularly. This is especially true if the device is used in colder climates or in rooms with a higher moisture content.
Thankfully, our top picks all feature a tank that’s easy to refill and come with a handy brush for cleaning. Some also include remote controls that make it easy to change the mist level or set a sleep timer.
Humidifiers that don’t emit white dust
Ultrasonic air humidifiers use high-frequency vibration and quiet fans to produce a fine mist. They don’t emit white dust into the air, but they’re not great for using on a carpet or furniture, because they leave water on the floor.
Evaporative humidifiers use a wick to release actual water vapor into the air. They also require filter replacement, but they tend to produce less mold or mildew than ultrasonic models.
To prevent white dust, fill the water tank with distilled water or demineralized water (which is filled with minerals that can’t cause white dust) and change the water regularly. Changing the water will also help remove any mineral deposits that may have formed on the sides of the water tank.
Lastly, you can also use water treatment tablets to soften the water and remove common minerals that are causing white dust. These are a cost-effective option and can be used in your humidifier’s water tank.
Humidifiers that don’t have a filter
A humidifier without a filter can be quieter than those with filters, but there’s a risk of bacteria and mineral build-up in the water tank. That makes cleaning and disinfecting the unit even more important, especially if you have children in the home.
The most common type of filterless humidifier, this model produces cool mist through high-frequency vibrations. It’s cheap, efficient and easy to clean. Plus, it doesn’t emit white dust, which can cause health problems and damage furniture.
Humidifiers that don’t have a humidistat
An ultrasonic air humidifier has a water reservoir and a vibrating diaphragm that propels tiny water droplets into the air. This action produces a mist, which can be warm or cool (depending on the type of humidifier and whether it is used around children).
Because there is no heating of water in an ultrasonic unit, the humidifier is safer to use than a steam humidifier that boils water to produce vapor. This is especially true if you have small children or pets, as boiling water can be dangerous if knocked over or spilled.
An ultrasonic humidifier is also much quieter than an evaporative humidifier that uses a fan to circulate the air. This is important for bedrooms, where a loud fan can disturb a restful sleep.
