Where should a furnace humidifier be installed?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: They need to be installed on the supply. Air or warm air plenum only the bypass models can be conveniently installed on either the supply or the return whichever is convenient for you.

Can you install humidifier on return duct?

Can my Bypass Flow Through Humidifier be installed on the air return? Yes. Though the ideal mounting location is on the warm air supply, sometimes it’s not possible due to space restrictions. Fortunately, Honeywell’s Bypass Flow Through Humidifiers can also be installed on the return air duct.

Why is humidifier on return duct?

If the humidifier you are installing is not a bypass type unit, then it should be mounted on the supply because that is where the hot air is located and the hotter the air across the media pad the greater capacity of the unit.

Can a fan powered humidifier be installed on the return duct?

Aprilaire power humidifiers are design to be installed on the hot air supply plenum. If however, there is no space available due to the HVAC air conditioning coil or the layout of the mechanical room, the Aprilaire power humidifier can be installed on the cold air return duct.

Are humidifiers bad for your furnace?

If you have a portable personal humidifier in your home, it could be affecting your heater. “We’ve had a lot of calls of the same problem,” explained Tim Hatfield, Owner of Tim’s Heating & Cooling. “Of getting their bumping limit, which is the furnace getting too hot and shutting itself off.”

Should humidifier go on return or supply?

Proper installation



One of the most common questions is where to mount it — on the return or supply side. For most types of humidifiers, it really doesn’t matter, notes Lewis. “The furnace has a negative pressure on the return air and a positive pressure on the warm air side.

Do you install a humidifier on the return or supply?

Steam, Drums,and Fan-Powered Humidifiersare typically installed on the supply (hot air) duct. However, some vendors will allow them to be installed on the return duct as long as hot water is being used instead of cold water.

What is better a bypass or powered humidifier?

Comfort and Space



Because of the additional ductwork that’s required, bypass humidifiers take up more space compared to fan-powered units that don’t need as much room. If you have a small space or your house doesn’t have a basement, fan-powered humidifiers are your best choice.

Can you put a humidifier on a gas furnace?

Most HVAC technicians can install a humidifier on a furnace within about two hours, given the system doesn’t require any special setups. If you are attempting to install a humidifier on the furnace yourself, depending on your electrical knowledge and handyman skills, it can take anywhere from two to five hours.

Do you need humidifier with gas furnace?

The short answer is yes, you do need a humidifier with a high-efficiency furnace. These furnaces may contribute to low humidity levels in the home, but winter humidity levels are already so low that you may need a humidifier with any furnace, not just a new high-efficiency one.

Is whole house humidifier a bad idea?

By utilizing a whole-home humidifier, you are creating a higher humidity level that can alleviate some of the nuisances that come with dry winter air. However, incorrect use can cause condensation, mold, mildew, rot, stains, and poor air quality.

Do whole house humidifiers cause mold in ducts?

If not used properly, here are some issues a whole house humidifier can cause: Excessive moisture can causes mold growth. Moisture can accumulate within your ducts, causing mold to form and then be distributed throughout the air in your home.

Can furnace humidifiers cause mold?

Because the interior of a furnace humidifier is a moist environment, it is at risk for mold growth. Mold can grow on the absorbent padding inside the humidifier or on the interior walls. If mold growth goes unchecked, the furnace can blow mold spores into your home.

Are furnace humidifiers worth it?

Adding a furnace humidifier can also lead to less overall energy usage in the home because the furnace may not need to work as hard. Keeping the air moist can make the home feel relatively warmer and you’ll be less likely to crank the heat. Personal or portable humidifiers are always an option.

What are the cons of a humidifier?

What Are the Cons of Humidifiers?

  • Noisy. Some humidifiers are very noisy. …
  • Mold in Your Home. Running a humidifier constantly will elevate your home’s perpetual humidity levels. …
  • Burns. Warm-mist humidifiers use heating elements to turn water into steam, which is then dispensed throughout your home or room 3⭐


How much does it cost to install a humidifier on a furnace?

A whole-house humidifier costs $400 to $1,200 installed, depending on size, type, and the home’s HVAC system. A furnace humidifier alone costs $100 to $500 for drum and flow-through units alone or $300 to $1,300 for steam. The labor cost to install a humidifier adds $100 to $900.