Installing a whole-house humidifier can help decrease cold-weather problems in Los Angeles including scratchy skin, a dry nose and peeling lips. Because it works with your heating system, you don’t need to carry a portable humidifier around your home, splashing water as you go.

Since this system connects to your HVAC system, ductwork and plumbing, you’ll want to book skilled whole-house humidifier installation from an HVAC company like AZ Air Conditioning and Heating. Whole-house humidifier cost varies due to the model of humidifier you select and how long we need to install it.

To help you choose the best whole-house humidifier for your needs, let’s review the different models and their estimated price.

Drum Whole-House Humidifier

Drum humidifiers are the most requested type because they’re the most reasonably priced. They typically cost between $150–$250 plus installation, according to national averages compiled by HomeAdvisor. They add humidity to your home with a padded moving wheel, which raises and dissolves water.

You can choose from bypass, which operates when your heating system does, or fan-powered, which runs on its own. However, the lower price tag also includes an increased need for upkeep to avoid mold.

A drum humidifier has an evaporative pad to move moisture across your home. Depending on how regularly you turn on the humidifier, you’ll need to replace the pad at least annually.

Flow-Through Whole-House Humidifier

As the name suggests, flow-through humidifiers move water through an evaporator pad to make humidity. They are around $200–$300, plus installation, according to national averages from HomeAdvisor.

They need more water than a drum humidifier, but the potential for mold is decreased because the water drains once the humidification cycle is finished. You can have your choice of bypass and fan models, but you’ll still have to install a new pad at least every year.

Steam Whole-House Humidifier

A steam humidifier is considered the greatest efficiency and needs a minimal amount of service, because it doesn’t require standing water or an evaporative pad. Depending on the features you are looking for, they can range from $300 to more than $1,000, plus installation, according to national averages put together by HomeAdvisor.

Because they can work independently of your furnace, they could require slightly more utilities than drum and flow-through types. However, the trade-off is that they ordinarily don’t involve mold growth.

Make Wintertime More Enjoyable with a Whole-House Humidifier from AZ Air Conditioning and Heating

Although a whole-house humidifier costs more than a portable model, it gives many pluses a single-room model can’t. A few of those pluses include:

  • Keeping wood flooring, cabinets and furniture from wearing out
  • Making a healthier space for household members who suffer from respiratory ailments, like asthma
  • Reducing frequent wintertime complaints, including scratchy skin or peeling lips
  • Decreasing static electricity

Want to enjoy a more pleasant heating season while at your home? Our AZ Air Conditioning and Heating professionals can help you choose the right whole-house humidifier for your budget. Reach us at 800-296-5088 right away to start the process.