Which is better, air washer or... Humidifier or air washer - which is better? Natural humidification function

The wider the range of equipment, the more difficult it is to navigate this diversity. Of course, only humidifiers, ionizers, ozonizers and car washes fight for the cleanliness and humidity of the air. The most common question from buyers is: how is a washer different from a humidifier and what is better to buy for your home? We will look at the main characteristics of sinks and help you make the right choice.

Washers and humidifiers really have a lot in common: both types of gadgets are designed to raise the level of relative air humidity in the house.

The differences begin with the expansion of functionality - washing not only saturates the air with moisture, but also cleans it of mechanical contaminants: dust, small fibers of fabric, wool, pollen and even particles of smog and tobacco smoke. A humidifier by itself cannot clean the air; it only evaporates water, releasing cold or warm water vapor.

The mechanism of action is also fundamentally different. The sinks operate on the principle of hydrofiltration. The fan takes the air flow from the room and directs it to a rotating drum consisting of several disks. The drum constantly rotates and is irrigated with water, so the water itself becomes a filter - air hydrofiltration occurs. Contaminants stuck to the drum fall into the water and settle in a special tray, and the purified and humidified air flow is sent out.

There are two main types of air purifiers on the market today, differing in the shape of the drum.

Sinks with conical drum. In these devices, instead of a traditional round disk, a cone-shaped rod rotates in the center of a water reservoir. As the rod rotates, it draws water upward, creating a curtain of small droplets through which polluted air passes.
Round drum washers create a curtain of water thanks to rotating discs, which are always wetted with water due to a special relief or membrane-like membranes. A powerful fan is installed above the disk to enhance evaporation.

Models with a conventional round drum are much more widely available on sale - in terms of efficiency and principle of operation, they are no different from their conical counterparts, but they make much less noise and are easier to maintain.

Serviced area

One of the main reasons for negative reviews of air washers is incorrect calculation of the area. The fact is that when buying a sink, you should not focus on the area of the entire apartment, but only on the area of the room where the device will be installed. It is not possible for a sink to raise the humidity in the entire house, and the reason is not insufficient power, but in poor air circulation in the room and the presence of walls, so the humidified air remains within one room.

Tank volume and water consumption

Obviously, the more powerful the wash, the faster the air in the room will be saturated with moisture. The average water consumption rate must be indicated in the technical characteristics of the device: the minimum value is considered to be 200 ml of water per hour, the high value is 500 ml/hour.

To ensure that the tank volume is sufficient for a full operating cycle, you can focus on average values. At a flow rate of 300-500 ml/hour, the water tank should contain at least 5-7 liters of water.

Noise level

In general, washers are much louder than a regular humidifier. The noise level varies depending on the model, but even the quietest devices in the minimum power mode usually reach 20 dB. In normal mode, the noise from operation is comparable to the sounds produced by the computer system unit.

To prevent the humming of the appliance from irritating and interfering with the restful sleep of your household, it is better to immediately purchase a sink that supports a night mode that muffles the operation of the fan.

Consumables

Manufacturers often emphasize that air washers are more economical than other air purifiers due to the lack of replacement parts.

However, many models in the middle and upper price segments are additionally equipped with silver-plated ionizing rods for water purification, fine output filters (HEPA), as well as bactericidal and sorbing filter cassettes. All of these are consumables that require regular replacement, so it makes sense to check the cost and availability of components before purchasing.

Additional functions

It is worth noting that, unlike the usual one (for which water is recommended in advance), washing is less demanding on the quality of water. But the operating noise level mentioned above and the high price raise the question of choosing the right device.

Hybrid air purifiers are quite popular. Most often, an air ionizer is integrated into the sink, but the feasibility of the purchase is still questionable. Firstly, both functions are rarely implemented equally well, and with strong ionization, humidification and cleaning are less effective. Secondly, the sinks themselves are quite expensive, and advanced functionality further inflates the price, so it is often more rational to buy two separate devices.

5th place: Boneco W1355A

Distinctive features of Boneco sinks are an increased evaporation surface and the simplest possible controls. Embossed drum discs allow you to retain more moisture and speed up the evaporation process, and built-in operating modes are responsible for ease of operation. You can safely turn on the sink at night; even the low-noise night mode has an adjustable intensity. Caring for the device is made easier by a transparent water tank with a convenient handle.

Advantages:

Serves an area of up to 50 sq. meters;
volumetric tank 7 liters;
average power, water consumption 300 ml/h;
silver ionizing rod;
several operating modes (night and intensive);
water level indicator light;
quiet operation (up to 27 dB);
automatic shutdown when the tank is empty;
low electricity consumption (20 W).

Flaws:

the rod will have to be changed (designed for 2 seasons);
when water is drawn from the tank there is a loud gurgling sound;
cost from 13,150 rubles.

4th place: Winia AWI-40

The smart Korean washer Winia AWI-40 independently copes with dry air. The built-in hygrometer accurately determines the humidity level, the value is displayed, and the device automatically saturates the air with moisture and maintains the set level. A capacious tank and high water consumption can significantly speed up work and require virtually no intervention from the owner: the battery life exceeds 14 hours.

Advantages:

discs with antibacterial coating;
tank volume 7 liters;
there is an ionization mode;
built-in gyrostat;
double filtration system;
touch control and LCD display;
high water consumption (450 ml/hour);
there is an intensity regulator and night mode;
very low electricity consumption (up to 15 W).

Flaws:

noise level 46 dB;
plaque quickly accumulates on the pallet;
cost from 13,990 rubles.

3rd place: Xiaomi Mi Air Purifier 2

Even those who are far from the world of technology and are not too actively interested in gadgets have heard about the phenomenal success of Xiaomi; now the company also produces climate control equipment. The Mi Air Purifier 2 washer received a signature laconic design, impeccable assembly, and, of course, a set of Smart functions - you can control the operation of the purifier using a mobile application. There, the device leaves information about the air quality in the house and informs you about the need to replace the filter.

Advantages:

cost from 7,700 rubles;
supports Wi-Fi and control from a smartphone;
2 built-in modes (night and automatic);
the ability to create your own mode;
automatically monitors humidity levels and adjusts work in real time;
coverage area up to 47 sq. meters;
there are indicators for air quality, water level and filter replacement;
work on a timer is provided;
there is protection from children;
2 filters (exit and pre-cleaning) retain up to 99.9% of microparticles.

Flaws:

an adapter is needed for the cable plug;
the output HEPA filter needs to be changed every six months;
All consumables must be ordered.

2nd place: IQAir HealthPro 250

A Swiss air purifier with universal functions for removing dust, gases, and smoke. Equipped with a motor block and filters: preliminary, carbon and main, against dust. The device is controlled electronically via the display.

The PreMax F8 pre-filter with a working surface of 2.8 m² is made of fiberglass. It protects the engine from dust and also cleans the air. The V5-Cell MultiGas gas and odor filter consists of granular activated carbon and impregnated activated alumina. The main filter is a high-quality and ultra-modern HyperHEPA, which traps dust from 3 nanometers, it becomes an additional shield against viruses in the room. The device informs the user about the status of the filters and the time remaining until they are replaced.

The IQAir HealthPro 250 purifier has a power of 150 W with a productivity of 50-440 m³ per hour. The fan is equipped with six speeds, so you can change the speed and noise level at night. 60 dB - maximum noise at the highest speed; at the first power level the noise level is 45 dB.

This model is designed to clean an area of up to 85 m².

Most of the reviews about the device are positive.

Advantages:

high efficiency;
large air exchange;
large area of influence;
several built-in filters;
positive results of tests of air purification from heavy particles;
elimination of unpleasant odors;
reducing the level of formaldehyde in the air;
relieves allergies;
there is a weekly timer;
6 operating speeds;
not very noisy;
there is a filter status indicator;
economical (filters need to be changed every 1.5-2 years);
build quality;
manual in Russian;
can be installed on wheels;
convenient carrying handle.

Flaws:

high price;
expensive filters;
big;
heavy (16 kg);
the need to regularly replace filters;
inconvenient installation of the lower filter unit;
does not humidify the air;
angular design;
no display backlight;
no air quality sensors;
inconvenient remote control.

1st place: Daikin MC707VM

The rating is closed by the multifunctional air washer MC707VM. The multi-station device is equally effective at humidifying and cleaning the air in the house thanks to proprietary Flash Streamer technology and a biofiltration system. In a minute of operation, the air purifier manages to destroy bacteria with an electric discharge, collect electrified dust, remove dust mites and even small spores of fungus and mold. The list also includes another useful function - high-quality deodorization, which works by binding particles of unpleasant odor.

Results

The issue of healthy nutrition for a child comes first for any mother. Perhaps that’s why they came up with such a seemingly strange device as: the ability to first steam food and then grind it into puree right there - what mother doesn’t dream of this?

If there is still controversy surrounding the benefits of ionization, then the issue regarding humidification and air purification is resolved unambiguously: it is useful, harmless and even necessary for people sensitive to allergens. A correctly chosen sink will perfectly cope with the tasks assigned to it, and, what is not unimportant, will not cause harm, because during the work no substances hazardous to health are released. There is no need to worry about possible waterlogging that steam cleaners can cause.

The other side of the coin is the still not very loyal cost of modern air purifiers and their components, as well as the need for careful filter care.

Updated: August 2019

A few decades ago, only the wealthy part of the population could afford plastic windows and air conditioners, but today they are routinely used by many Russians, and some users cannot imagine life without these improvements. Just recently, none of the readers had any idea what an air washer or a humidifier for the home was, but now consumers scrupulously choose the necessary model from a fairly wide range.

Many users are wondering which of these devices is better, but no specialist can answer them, because these are different products - they must be considered separately from each other, first understand the operating features, what additional functions they have to create favorable atmosphere inside a city apartment. This, as well as the individual advantages and disadvantages of each device, will be discussed in our article.

The humidity in the apartment should be no lower than 50 and no higher than 75%, otherwise the walls and furniture will begin to become damp. Each device has its own individual nuances, so before purchasing you need to familiarize yourself with them in order to decide whether it is suitable for you or not.

Humidifiers

They are available in three types, differing only in the principle of operation, the size of the treated area and productivity. We will not describe the work and design, but will focus only on the positive as well as negative qualities of each option.

Traditional

The liquid is not heated.
The air is saturated with as much moisture as necessary at the existing temperature.
There is no sediment on furniture or floors.
Water can be poured from the tap, not specially purified.
Can process rooms up to 45 square meters. m.

low productivity;
you need to change the water often;
Wash the discs periodically.

Ultrasonic

Quiet operation.
Great performance.
The presence of a built-in hygrometer to check the result of the work.
Low electrical energy consumption.

You should use only purified and soft water; the best results are with distillate.

Steam

High intensity and hygienic processing, as high temperature steam is used.
No filter elements.
A whitish coating does not form on interior items.

condensation;
scale forms on the heating element;
high consumption of electricity and water.

Before you buy a humidifier for your home, you need to clearly define the tasks it should solve.

Air washers

Air washers have the following features:

Control types are mechanical, electronic and touch, the second option is considered the most functional, and the third option is considered unreliable by experts, since in practice quite frequent failures occur.
Area to be processed. Each model is designed to process a certain area of the room, depending on the power. For effective processing, you need to choose a power slightly greater than necessary: for example, your room is 20 square meters. m., but you need to purchase a product designed for 25-30 sq. m.
Water reservoir. The size of the tank affects the size of the device; the optimal option is a capacity of 7 liters; there is enough water for a day at a flow rate of 300 ml/hour.
The presence of various modes, as a rule, there are at least two of them - day and night, in which the consumption of water and electricity is reduced.
Aromatization. Only more expensive models are equipped with a separate compartment; for budget options, flavored oils can be added to the liquid bath.

These unique products, unlike household humidifiers, work on the principle of hydraulic filtration, when dry air masses from the room are washed with water in a special so-called dispersion rehabilitation zone. After processing, the humidified air is returned back.

What are the products for, what are the differences?

As soon as the heating season begins, the air in city apartments becomes excessively dry, and this negatively affects the health of residents. Natural ventilation does not help much, because frosty air does not humidify the room air, but rather aggravates the negative situation. Therefore, products such as humidifiers and air purifiers are needed, and which one is best suited for use in an apartment is up to you to decide.

What consequences do we face from dry indoor air?

People who are constantly in rooms with low humidity experience frequent headaches, bouts of drowsiness, fatigue and dry skin.
Working at a computer for more than 4 hours in an unventilated room contributes to red-eye syndrome, which causes a sharp deterioration in visual acuity.
In dry air, a suspension of tiny dust is formed, which those present are forced to breathe - increasing the risk of developing allergies, as well as many diseases of the upper respiratory tract.
People forced to work in such an unfavorable climate: for example, workers in archives and book storage in libraries, are more likely than others to suffer from respiratory diseases.

If you are for a healthy lifestyle, then do everything in your power to ensure that the microclimate in your home is favorable, especially for the younger generation.

Advantages and disadvantages

Let's start with the positive qualities of ultrasonic humidifiers:

Using devices at home is absolutely safe even for children, not to mention adults - many kids really like to play with the water mist coming from the sprayer.
The devices operate quite quietly and do not disturb others, and the quiet gurgling helps fidgets fall asleep quickly.
The model range has a wide range of samples with a different set of functions, so you can choose the optimal combination for yourself.
The stylish and beautiful design of the products contributes to their harmonious entry into any interior, especially for models with illuminated water tank and water mist outlet.
The presence of a built-in hygrostat allows users to periodically check the efficiency of the device or switch the product to autonomous operation.
High efficiency and small dimensions allow it to be moved from room to room to create an optimal microclimate in the apartment.
The devices use little electricity, so consumers don't face higher utility bills.
The kit includes an ionizing rod for additional cleansing from viruses and various microbes.

In order for the equipment to operate stably and for a long time, it is necessary to fill only purified and soft water; distilled liquid “works best”;
if you use tap water, the product will work less than the prescribed period, and a whitish coating of salt deposits will appear on the interior surfaces;
Pre-filters require periodic cleaning and replacement, which requires personal time and considerable financial investments.

Now, in a similar sequence, we will talk about air washing.

It perfectly filters foreign particles 10 microns in size, but is susceptible to microallergens and microbes.
Some skeptics claim that such products contribute to the formation of excess moisture, but no harm has been recorded from using the products in domestic conditions when used correctly.
They process a large area using forced air suction.
The water in the tank is not heated, so it is impossible to get burned during operation and maintenance of the device.
The products do not cause the appearance of a whitish coating on the surface of furniture or floors.

Flaws:

continuous operation is needed for high-quality air humidification: if you turn off the product, the percentage of humidity drops quite quickly;
the developed design does not allow the device to capture allergens, as well as foreign particles less than 10-12 microns;
High quality fine filters are installed, which need to be changed, which entails additional costs.

Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, but during long-term use the former always overlap the latter, and as a result, users receive a comfortable microclimate. It is very difficult to finally conclude what is better to use in everyday life - an air washer or its competitor in the fight for the purity of the air masses around us - an ultrasonic humidifier due to the difference in the operating principle.

Where to choose

We sequentially reviewed each of the compared products, and the verdict is as follows: if you need a humidifier for a small room, for example, a children’s bedroom, then the ideal option without a doubt is an ultrasonic model. And in the case of humidifying the entire apartment with an improved layout, an air washer will suit you, since it takes up quite a lot of space and is specially designed for large areas and can effectively serve up to 100 square meters. meters.

Household ultrasonic humidifiers are designed to operate effectively in rooms of no more than 50 square meters. m, there are products covering an area of 80 square meters. m, but these are climate control systems, and they cost much more. Each user chooses a product according to his own taste and financial capabilities, but we only dispassionately state the facts.

Recently, multifunctional air purification systems have become in great demand and appear in many private houses and apartments. Due to the wide variety of such devices, it is sometimes difficult to choose what to buy: an air washer or a humidifier. There is no clear answer as to which is better, so you need to carefully evaluate the characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of each type.

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Overview of sinks

There are different types of climate control equipment on sale, and the choice of models is so extensive that it is very difficult for an inexperienced buyer to make a decision and choose a suitable air washer or air purifier. What is better and under what conditions a particular device will demonstrate all its best sides can only be understood after studying its technical characteristics and operating properties.

If we talk about air washers, the following types of systems are available on the market:

1. Cone. Designed to create a water curtain.
2. Disk. They create a thin film of water when the working element rotates and collect all kinds of impurities in the air.

This type is capable of effectively purifying the air, as well as raising the level of moisture content in the room microclimate. Current models of sinks are equipped with a special sensor - a hygrometer, which measures the current humidity level and starts the device in automatic mode, maintaining optimal values of 40 and 60 percent. In addition, some sinks support aromatization, which involves spraying special aromatic or essential oils into the air.

Choosing an air purifier. The program "Live Healthy!"

The washing unit rids the room of all kinds of contaminants whose size exceeds 2.5 microns. Among them:

1. Various types of dust (construction, street or household).
2. Particles of wool, hair and lint.
3. Plant pollen.

If we make a constructive assessment of such climate control devices, we can say that they effectively clean the air space and also maintain a comfortable level of humidity, regardless of the time of year and weather conditions. The installation is intended for buildings with low concentrations of gases or foreign odors, while supporting the aromatization function allows you to fill the room with a pleasant aroma.

Advantages and disadvantages

When figuring out which is better: you need to carefully understand the pros and cons of both systems. When it comes to washing, it has the following advantages:

But, in addition to the advantages, such devices also have disadvantages. This is about:

1. The need to regularly clean equipment to ensure efficient operation.
2. Impressive dimensions.
3. Medium or high noise level (noise intensity is determined by the model).
4. Inability to cope with fine dust, smog, exhaust fumes and tobacco smoke.

Purifier, humidifier, air washer - what's the difference?

Characteristics of air purifiers

In addition to air washers, another type of climate control equipment is available on the market - air purifiers. They guarantee an increased level of comfort and also effectively clean the air from debris and contaminants. The advantage of such a device is the wide variety of models and layouts, which allows you to find the best option for any operating conditions. In addition, the client can choose the most suitable model without overpaying for a lot of unnecessary functions.

Depending on the filtration method and design features, air purifiers are divided into the following types:

1. Photocatalytic devices.
2. Primary filters.
3. Carbon filters.
4. Disinfecting ultraviolet lamps.
5. Built-in ionizers.

Each option can be divided into separate subtypes, while the variety of purifiers is not limited by any standards, so any device can be installed in the house. The main thing is that it meets individual requirements and can serve a specific room.

The benefits of air purifiers are as follows:

If you combine several filters in one building, this will get rid of any contaminants in the air and remove up to 99.9% of harmful impurities. Moreover, such equipment is suitable for all consumers, without exception. The main thing is to choose the right model.

Advantages and disadvantages

It is problematic to say clearly which is better - an air washer or an air purifier. But if you consider the advantages and disadvantages of such equipment, you can make a completely objective assessment. Among the advantages of air purifiers, the following points stand out:

1. Maximum cleaning efficiency.
2. Affordable cost of consumables such as filters. In addition, coarse particles are intended for repeated use, while coal ones can last from three months to one year.
3. Wide range of models that suit individual preferences.
4. Low power consumption.
5. A large assortment of devices with different functionality and operating principles. Some models are characterized by a simple design and support for easy cleaning, while others are full-fledged climate systems designed for allergy sufferers and asthmatics.

Cons of air purifiers include:

1. Lack of universal filters for cleaning. Each filter is capable of working in a specific application, but there are no universal solutions yet.
2. High cost. Most devices with good functionality are not cheap.
3. Not all models can work throughout the day. Some oversaturate the air with ozone, while others negatively affect the natural microclimate.

AIR WASHER/HUMIDIFIER/PURIFIER REVIEW

Benefits of Hydration

So-called humidifiers are in particular demand. They are a device for maintaining natural or specified humidity in a room microclimate. Such devices differ from classic sinks in their expanded functionality and support for additional functions. There are three types of humidifiers on the market:

1. Models with “cold” or natural humidification.
2. Models powered by steam.
3. Ultrasonic devices.

To expand the limited scope of operation of such systems, they are equipped with various options, such as: ozonizer, ionizer, flavor, and so on. In addition, some devices are equipped with an LED light and can be used as a night light.

Humidifiers are used for various purposes. The type and principle of operation plays a role here. For example, ultrasonic devices are great for providing a comfortable microclimate and can be used in home greenhouses or rooms with many indoor plants. They are characterized by minimal noise, environmental safety and ease of use. Such a device can even be placed in the bedroom or room with a newborn.

Steam-type models work like a regular kettle: a special heating unit causes the liquid to heat up, as a result of which it begins to evaporate, raising the level of air humidity. Such units have excellent performance and can be used in the driest environments where other models are powerless.

“Cold” type humidifiers are more expensive than all others, which is explained by a specific operating principle: evaporation of liquid occurs naturally, and moistened air masses enter the room using ventilation systems. A steam humidifier can raise the humidity level to 60 percent, which is what the body of humans and animals requires. Such products are famous for their attractive design and silent operation.

Performance properties and strengths

Unlike previous types of climate systems, humidifiers are characterized by many advantages:

Modern air humidifiers have very few disadvantages. First of all, this is a limited operating time, which directly depends on the volume of the liquid reservoir. In simple words, the larger the water container, the longer the humidifier can operate without replacing consumables. But along with the increase in the size of the tank, the dimensions of the structure itself also increase.

If you are interested in what or an air purifier, you cannot ignore ready-made climate control systems that combine functions of all types. They are intended to create a comfortable microclimate in the building, which is due to the harmonious combination of humidification and air purification functions. In addition, such products have many additional options. However, ready-made systems are much more expensive than individual humidification devices.

Such units will be useful for private houses and apartments, office centers, and conference rooms. They will be relevant for all rooms in which the humidity level needs to be raised.

Complex systems operate on the basis of different filters:

1. Photocatalytic.
2. Plasma.
3. HEPA filter.
4. Carbon filter.

The presence of an ultraviolet element has a bactericidal effect, and the ionizer helps charge mechanical particles with negative ions. The humidification procedure is performed by an evaporator.

Climate control systems are highly efficient devices that quickly recreate a comfortable microclimate in a room and at the same time have many advantages. Most devices support a lot of useful functions, they have an ergonomic design, and also ideally combine the functions of humidifiers and air purifiers.

When trying to understand the difference between an air washer and a humidifier, it is important to carefully evaluate the characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of each type. Perhaps the difference is really significant, and it makes sense to focus on a specific model with specific operating properties.

An air washer is a simple device consisting of a fan and a container of water through which air is passed. But the air purifier in its set has several filters for sequential cleaning, which can remove odors, allergens and other small particles. Which is better, an air washer or a purifier?

Air washing

What it can do:

trap large particles and dirt
humidify the air

What it can't do:

trap small particles, including allergens
ozonize, carry out antibacterial treatment

The sink purifies and humidifies the air by passing it through a container of water or several wet discs that serve as filters. Thanks to this, dust particles remain in the water, and the air is humidified and released back. This creates a microclimate in the room with normal humidity.

Air washing operation diagram.

The benefits of air washing include:

ease of operation and maintenance;
lack of special filters that need to be changed;
almost silent operation.

The only filter in air washers is water. Accordingly, this design is powerless against microbes, allergens and so-called 2.5 particles (dangerous particles for our body ranging in size from 10 nm to 2.5 microns). For some, this disadvantage is significant, but this can also be an advantage: you do not need to periodically change filters, only water.

An air washer is perfect for:

for home if you live in a region with a dry, dusty climate, or your central heating radiators are very hot;
for office with a lot of technology, which dries the air during operation;
for a greenhouse or museum, where you need to maintain normal humidity, and also for a home where there are a lot of fresh flowers.

CHIP recommends: popular air washers

Air purifier

A much more complex device that can simultaneously humidify the air and clean it from large and small particles, and remove odors. To do this, the air is passed through several special filters that affect it differently.

Scheme of operation of a three-stage air purifier.

What it can do:

trap even small particles and allergens, odors
independently control the level of pollution

What it can't do:

well, except to make coffee and scrambled eggs :)

The advantages of full-fledged air purifiers are obvious:

a multi-stage air purification system that eliminates everything unnecessary from it;
possibility of air humidification;
possibility of air aromatization;
the possibility of ozonation and ultraviolet air treatment to combat bacteria and mold.

Purifiers can be simple or complex - in fact, it all depends on the number and type of filters used. The most basic ones, like washers, cope only with large particles - they retain them mechanically. The most expensive ones are able to independently control the air quality in the apartment and start working only when necessary. This saves energy.

The disadvantages of purifiers stem from their own advantages: filters and flavors need to be changed periodically, and they are quite expensive - especially high-tech HEPA filters.

However, a multi-stage air purifier will come in handy if...