Why Is My Whole-House Humidifier Leaking?

During the summer, warm weather often brings increased humidity. Unfortunately, you can't create the same moisture in your home just by running the heater. House humidifiers let you control the humidity in your home ... until something goes wrong.

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If you're in a panic wondering why your humidifier is leaking, take a deep breath and keep reading.

What Is a Whole-House Humidifier?

A whole-house humidifier, sometimes called a central humidifier, helps make your entire home more humid rather than focusing on specific areas. A whole-house humidifier increases moisture in the air so your home feels less dry. Increasing moisture levels can have numerous benefits, such as reducing allergy symptoms and softening skin. You may also notice asthma or chronic bronchitis symptoms improve.

Unlike portable humidifiers, a whole-house humidifier is part of your HVAC system. Typically, a house humidifier gets installed near your furnace's return or supply air duct. An HVAC tech can safely install the humidifier in your ductwork.

Once installed, the humidifier collects clean water from your water supply. This water evaporates after being heated by the furnace. Evaporated water particles get distributed through your home via your HVAC system's blower fan.

Why Does My Whole-House Humidifier Leak?

Problems during any part of your HVAC system's humidification process can cause leaks or drips. You may find your house humidifier leaking water, leaving behind visible puddles. You may also suspect your humidifier is leaking, even if you don't see water, because you hear a dripping sound near your HVAC system.

If you're trying to figure out why your humidifier is leaking, consider these possibilities:

• Drain line problems: Water leaves your humidifier via the drain, so a drain with clogs, kinks or holes can make water leak out of the unit.

• Blocked water panel: Your water panel captures sediment and hard minerals before they reach the distribution tray. Without regular maintenance, sediment buildup can cause a leak-triggering blockage.

• Valve buildup: Your water supply travels to the house humidifier via the solenoid valve. Sediment can build up on the solenoid valve, resulting in leaks as water tries to pass through.

• Faulty installation: Installation errors, such as a poorly installed drainage tube, can create water flow problems. It's best to have a professional install and repair your humidifier.

• Excessive pressure: High water pressure may feel great in the shower, but the force can damage your humidifier. Sometimes, high water pressure comes from plumbing problems, such as a pipe blockage, which can impact the performance of your humidifier.

• Distribution tray issues: A damaged or incorrectly installed distribution tray can cause humidifier leaks.

Let a professional know if you notice your humidifier leaking from the bottom or sides. An AprilAire leaking may stem from any of the issues listed above, as well as a malfunctioning humidistat. Some issues may be specific to your HVAC system, so a technician might take a look at your entire system rather than just the humidifier. You can generally expect a tech to check components such as the water evaporator pad, water distribution tray, drain line, valves and filters.

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How Do I Stop My Humidifier From Leaking?

An HVAC technician can provide specific information about why your humidifier is leaking water and how to make it stop. The tech may recommend checking the drain pan and drain line for debris or clogs. You may also need connections to your water supply tightened or a solenoid valve replacement. Broken or worn seals should be replaced along with damaged humidifier housing components.

Sometimes, an issue may stem from your HVAC system or plumbing instead of the humidifier itself. In this situation, you may need HVAC equipment replaced or pipes repaired. A professional can help you determine the best course of action.

Proper whole-house humidifier maintenance can help prevent leaks. Cleaning or replacing the water panel each year helps prevent buildup that can cause blockages. A skilled HVAC tech can also check your ductwork, valves, drain line and humidistat. Installing a water softening system can help if hard water often causes buildup in your humidifier.

It's important to act quickly if you notice water dripping from humidifier components. Otherwise, you may develop mold or other fungal growth from the water leak. Your system may also become permanently damaged. Many humidifier parts can be repaired or replaced if you contact a tech as soon as issues occur.