Getting a whole-house humidifier can help decrease cold-weather issues in the Bay Area like scratchy skin, a dry nose and flaking lips. As it runs with your heating system, there’s no need to lug a portable humidifier across your home, sloshing water as you go.
Since this system works with your HVAC system, ductwork and plumbing, you’ll want to book skilled whole-house humidifier installation from an HVAC company like Contra Costa Heating & AC. Whole-house humidifier cost varies due to the kind of humidifier you want and how long we need to install it.
To help you find the best whole-house humidifier for your house, let’s discuss the different kinds and their estimated costs.
Drum Whole-House Humidifier
Drum humidifiers are the most popular model because they’re the most affordable. They typically are priced between $150–$250 plus installation, according to national averages from HomeAdvisor. They humidify your house by using a padded rotated wheel, which lifts and evaporates water.
You can select from bypass, which operates when your heating system is on, or fan-powered, which operates independently. However, the lower price tag also includes an increased need for service to prevent mold.
A drum humidifier relies on an evaporative pad to distribute moisture across your residence. Depending on how often you need the humidifier, you’ll need to change this pad at least annually.
Flow-Through Whole-House Humidifier
As the name suggests, flow-through humidifiers flow water through an evaporator pad to make humidity. They run between $200–$300, plus installation, according to national averages compiled by HomeAdvisor.
They consume more water than a drum style, but the likelihood of mold is lower since the moisture flows away once the humidification cycle is done. You can choose between bypass and fan models, but you’ll still need to install a new pad at least annually.
Steam Whole-House Humidifier
A steam humidifier is regarded as the greatest efficiency and needs the smallest amount of maintenance, since it doesn’t require a pool of water or an evaporative pad. Depending on the extras you need, they can be priced at from $300 to more than $1,000, plus installation, according to national averages from HomeAdvisor.
Because they can operate alone, they may require a bit more utilities than drum and flow-through styles. However, the trade-off is that they typically don’t involve mold troubles.
Make Winter More Pleasant with a Whole-House Humidifier from Contra Costa Heating & AC
Although a whole-house humidifier is pricier than a portable model, it gives many perks a single-room model can’t. Some of those advantages entail:
- Keeping wood flooring, cabinets and furniture from cracking
- Creating a healthier environment for household members with respiratory ailments, including asthma
- Alleviating frequent winter complaints, like scratchy skin or cracked lips
- Reducing static electricity
Want to enjoy a more comfy heating season while at your home? Our Contra Costa Heating & AC professionals can help you select the right whole-house humidifier for your budget. Contact us at 510-343-9841 now to start the process.