As you might know, humidifiers that provide cool invisible moisture need a wicking filter in order to operate. The filter is what allows the water to evaporate invisibly into the air. The filter also removes minerals and physical impurities from the water before evaporation, helping prevent white dust (mineral content from the water).
To keep a filtered humidifier running well, you’ll need to replace the filter every 30-60 days, depending on how frequently you use the humidifier. But keep in mind, there are some dirty secrets when it comes to replacement filters.
Dirty Secret #1 – Off-brand filters are a big “no”
You shouldn’t substitute a generic filter for a filter made by your humidifier’s brand. This is because each humidifier is designed to use very specific filters.Using an off-brand filter can prevent your humidifier from working correctly, or even damage it. Using the right filter ensures maximum moisture output and the longest life from your humidifier. For Honeywell humidifiers, only use genuine Honeywell Replacement Filters.
Dirty Secret #2 – Antimicrobial protection is a big “yes”
A humidifier filter spends its time soaked in water. Without built-in antimicrobial treatment, the filter can develop mold and bacterial growth. When you choose a replacement filter, be sure the filter is designed with antimicrobial protection. Honeywell replacement filters are made with Protec®, a treatment that inhibits up to 99.99% of mold growth on the filter*. (*Based on internal laboratory test report #SM211AF)
Dirty Secret #3 – Filters shouldn’t be cleaned
You may think that you can prolong your filter’s life by cleaning it – in fact, the opposite is true. A filter should never be cleaned with vinegar, soap or any chemical solutions. This kind of cleaning can actually damage the filter. If the filter is hardened with mineral buildup, you can loosen the buildup by soaking the filter in cool water. This will temporarily improve the filter’s performance, until a replacement can be purchased.
Dirty Secret #4 – You can extend your filter’s life
Although the filter can’t be cleaned, there is something you can do to extend its life. Simply turn the filter over each time you fill the humidifier’s water tank. This keeps the top of the filter from drying out, and it helps the filter age more evenly and last longer.
Dirty Secret #5 – Replacement frequency can vary
The recommended schedule for filter replacement is once every 30 to 60 days, but if you have very hard water (high in minerals), you may need to replace your filter more frequently. If you notice that the filter is hard and crusty with buildup, if the filter is giving off an odor, or if your humidifier’s moisture output has decreased, then you should replace the filter promptly.
It’s no secret – regularly replacing your filter is one of the easiest ways to ensure that your cool invisible moisture humidifier continues to perform well. Be sure to keep a few genuine Honeywell Replacement Filters on hand so that you can always enjoy your humidifier’s benefits!