The most energy-efficient humidifiers can cure your home of Dry-air syndrome without inflicting much damage to your financials.
During the cold season, cool and dry indoor air can dramatically unsettle your sinuses and skin. Fortunately, you can end your suffering quickly and affordably with an off-the-shelf, energy-efficient humidifier.
Why should you buy an energy-efficient humidifier?
According to EnergyStar.gov, humidifiers account for about 0.11 percent of the average American household’s electricity usage. This number may not seem like much, but when running your unit for months on end, the cost might accumulate to a significant amount.
Like most other home appliances, humidifiers take different forms and technologies. Therefore, while two devices can serve the same purpose, their energy consumption rate can differ.
An energy-efficient humidifier gives you all the air-quality improvement benefits of a humidifier while keeping your energy bill low. Using an Energy Star rated unit means you are consuming up to 40 percent less power than the average humidifier owner. It saves you money while lowering your carbon footprint.
Moreover, energy-efficient devices tend to last longer than their less efficient counterparts because they experience less wear and tear. You can therefore count on your model to give you reliable long-term service.
Which humidifiers are the most efficient?
If you are reading this post, saving on energy bills is probably your top priority. However, buying energy-efficient humidifiers is not as straightforward as you may think. If you go with the first unit with “energy-efficient” written on the box, you might end up with regrets down the road.
Thankfully, we have done the challenging part for you. Below is our list of energy star humidifiers available today.
1. Pure Enrichment MistAire Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier – (best for small spaces)
Last update on 2021-01-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Pure Enrichment MistAire is an ultrasonic cool-mist humidifier for small rooms. Admittedly, it is not the most feature-packed option on the market. Nevertheless, it is practical, reasonably-priced, and of course, exceptionally energy-efficient.
It will not take you more than a few minutes to set up the MistAire. Its small form-factor and battery-powered operation make it easy to place. It is also more aesthetically pleasing than many of its competitors.
Despite its small tank, the MistAire can stay on for up to 16 hours. The manufacturer recommends this model for rooms up to 250 square feet. Performance up to this room-size is decent, but it will go down significantly with larger rooms.
For control, the Pure Enrichment MistAire has only one button near the base. A click turns it on or off, while several successive clicks increase the speed settings. As expected, many users have found this simplistic approach a little underwhelming.
On the bright side, this unit offers some commendable smart features. For instance, automatic shut-off gives you the peace of mind of never worrying about the device running on an empty tank. You also get the option of turning the water tank into a soothing blue night light.
Overall, the MistAire is an excellent humidifier for the energy-conscious shopper. However, if you want a unit with various functions and convenience settings, you might want to keep reading.
Pros
- Stylish look and feel
- Small, space-efficient design
- Decent performance for small rooms
- Soothing night light
- Affordable price
Cons
- Settings are not straightforward
2. Honeywell HCM350W Germ-Free Cool Mist Humidifier
Last update on 2021-01-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Pure Enrichment MistAire humidifier is a decent option for small rooms. For shoppers looking for a unit with a larger water tank and longer operating time, the Honeywell HCM350W is a worthy alternative.
With a one-gallon tank, the HCM350W is considerably larger than the MistAire. Placement options are further diminished by the fact that it plugs into a power outlet. Nonetheless, once you find a good spot for it, operating it becomes a breeze. Unlike the MistAire, you will not need to guess whether you are increasing or decreasing the humidifying intensity. The dial clearly switches between low and high settings.
Because it plugs into a wall socket, this Honeywell model can run for 24 hours straight. It provides commendable performance for spaces up to 550 square feet. While most humidifiers come with a nozzle that releases a visible stream of mist, this device uses a fan to circulate the cool mist invisibly. The fan makes a low buzzing sound, but you will likely find it more soothing than distracting.
Honeywell units are famed for their extra features, and the HCM350W is no exception. For starters, it comes with an inbuilt purification system that eliminates 99.9 percent of water-borne bacteria before moisturizing your indoor air. Also featured is a wicking filter for more rapid steam evaporation.
The Honeywell HCM350W trades aesthetics for performance. If humidifying a larger room ranks higher on your priorities list than looks, you will be pleased with this choice.
Pros
- Straightforward, intuitive settings
- Excellent performance for small and medium-sized rooms
- A built-in fan enhances air circulation
- Competitively priced
Cons
- Relatively bulky design
3. Levoit 6-Liter Warm and Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier – (Top Pick)
Last update on 2021-01-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
When it comes to value for the money, few humidifiers can match the 6-liter Levoit LV550HH Hybrid. It ranks highly in all the important sectors, including looks, performance, efficiency, and user-friendliness, while maintaining a reasonable price tag.
This unit is just about as large as the Honeywell HCM350W. However, its stylish design makes it easier to place without worrying about messing up your decor. The only placement limitation is the three-foot power cord.
Aside from the protective film that you must peel off the remote, this 6-liter Levoit model is ready to go right from the box. It can comfortably humidify spaces up to 750 square feet and run continuously for up to 36 hours. As the name implies, it offers the option of either a warm or cool mist. The humidifier boils the water on warm-mist mode and releases it as a steam distillate that is warmer and purer than cool mist. As expected, heating consumes more electricity than regular operation. Fortunately, the Levoit is a thoroughly efficient humidifier.
The 6-liter Levoit Ultrasonic humidifier comes with a remote that allows you to adjust settings intuitively. If you are an essential oil enthusiast, you will be pleased that this model comes with an essential oil diffuser. You can humidify your home while giving it a refreshing aroma.
Among similarly-powered and similarly-priced competitors, the 6-literLevoit humidifier stands out for its looks and the warm and cool mist among similarly-powered and similarly-priced competitors. If your top priorities are style and performance, this model is hard to beat.
Pros
- Modern aesthetics
- Outstanding performance for small and medium-sized rooms
- Quiet operation
- Intuitive controls with remote functionality
- Doubles as an essential oils diffuser
Cons
- Short AC cord
4. LEVOIT 4 Liter Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier – Best for the bedroom
Last update on 2021-01-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Levoit 4-liter Ultrasonic humidifier is the smaller, cheaper version of the 6-liter Levoit. As you have probably guessed, it comes with a few trade-offs. For instance, it does not offer warm mist, and it is only good enough for spaces up to 500 square feet. On the upside, this model is one of the quietest humidifiers you can buy. With a noise output of fewer than 30 decibels, it is the perfect unit for the bedroom.
Levoit is renowned for compact and stylish humidifiers. This unit matches the brand’s reputation without faltering. You can place it on something as open as a dresser, and it will not seem out of place. Like its larger counterpart, however, you will have to contend with the short power cord.
The 1 gallon (4-liter) water tank is sizable enough to achieve 40 hours of continuous operation in low settings. With ultrasonic technology, the humidifier atomizes water to turn it into a fine mist that spreads quickly through the air. Therefore, you can achieve the moisture level you want without worrying about water damage on your walls or furniture.
For convenience, the 4-liter Levoit comes with automatic shut-off. You can leave it unattended without worrying about an empty tank. Meanwhile, one-touch button control and three mist speed settings enhance usability. You can also use the onboard essential oils diffuser to fill the air with your favorite fragrances.
The 4-Liter Levoit Ultrasonic humidifier is a smaller, simpler, and cheaper alternative to the 6-Liter Levoit. This unit is an excellent choice if you are looking for a compact and stylish humidifier for your bedroom.
Pros
- Stylish and compact
- Decent size water tank
- Outstanding continuous operation
- Ultra-quiet
- User-friendly
- Has an essential oils diffuser
Cons
- Short power cord
5. Taotronics TT-AH001 4L Cool Mist Humidifier
Last update on 2021-01-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you are looking for a stylish, intelligent unit that will not break your bank, the Taotronics TT-AH001 is for you. Thanks to its attractive aesthetics, this unit can be comfortably placed out in the open. Meanwhile, the inbuilt automatic humidity monitoring system makes it highly adaptable and efficient.
Setting up the TT-AH001 is remarkably straightforward. Fill it with water, plug it into a power outlet, and turn it on, and it will start working in no time. If you have used humidifiers before, you will likely notice this model’s ultra-quiet operation right away. You can place it on your nightstand, and it will humidify your bedroom air without disrupting your sleep.
This Taotronics model is designed for rooms up 330 square feet. Therefore, it can be ideal for a standard living room or bedroom, office, and even a nursery. The 4-liter water tank is sizable enough to offer up to 30 hours of continuous humidification.
User-friendliness is second-nature to Taotronics devices. The TT-AH001 features an informative LED display and an inbuilt humidistat. These two work together to keep you informed of the current humidity level at all times.
Overall, the Taotronics TT-AH001 is a decent choice for an energy-efficient humidifier. It is elegant, quiet, intuitive to use, and of course, cheap to run. It is not the most powerful humidifier you can find at its price point. Nevertheless, if you use it in an appropriately-sized room, you will not be disappointed.
Pros
- Attractive design
- Ultra-quiet operation
- Sizeable water tank offering 30 hours of continuous use
- Inbuilt humidistat
- Affordable price
Cons
- Underwhelming performance for its class
6. 2.5 Liter Magictec Cool Mist Humidifier
Last update on 2021-01-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you are looking for a reliable, premium-looking humidifier with an entry-level price tag, you will love Magictec’s 2.5-liter cool mist unit. It boasts a durable thermoplastic body that provides long-lasting usability. Moreover, its elegant design will complement any type of decor you have.
The 2.5-liter Magictec comes ready to use right off the box. The first-time filling is easy from any sink. A full tank can moisturize the air continuously for up to 24 hours on medium settings. This makes it ideal for all-night humidification.
Like other night-friendly humidifiers, you can turn the tank into a glowing nightlight. However, some users have complained that the white light is a little too bright. Fortunately, the unit’s quiet operation means you will not need to worry about mist noise disturbance. It also turns off automatically when the tank runs out to ensure safety and energy conservation.
The recommended room size for this humidifier is 200 square feet. However, thanks to the 360-degree nozzle spray and adjustable mist output, it can get away with humidifying an additional 100 square feet. The nozzle enables you to direct the flow of mist to areas that need moisture and keep off those already humid enough. With the dial knob, you can set your desired humidity level with ease.
For its price, the 2.5-liter Magictec cool mist humidifier is a steal. It does not have the convenience features of the Taotronics TT-AH001, but it delivers reliable humidification for the long-term.
Pros
- Robust, long-lasting build
- Elegant design
- Decently sized water tank for 24-hour operation
- Ultra-quiet humidification
- Adjustable mist output
Cons
- Offers just the basics
7. Venta LW25 Airwasher – (*best energy-efficient humidifier*)
Last update on 2021-01-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Venta LW25 Airwasher is, by far, the best performing humidifier on our list. It is also impressively energy-efficient. However, its high price tag is only worth it if you are looking to humidify a large room with few refills and cleanings.
This Venta humidifier is heavier than all the units we have reviewed so far. That said, it is among the most portable air washers on the market. Furthermore, its symmetrical design makes it easy to place in your living room.
The Venta humidifies air by passing it over a set of slowly rotating disks. It draws about one-sixth of the power a typical evaporative humidifier uses while remaining incredibly effective. The 7.5-liter water tank is enough for three straight days of continuous operation. However, Venta still recommends daily top-us to maintain maximum efficiency.
Most evaporative humidifiers require a thorough cleaning at least once a week. With the Venta LW25, you can keep the funk down with \a simple rinse every two weeks. The unit comes with a proprietary antimicrobial additive that you can use for cleaning.
As an air washer, the Venta performs decently but not nearly as good as the average air purifier. Regardless, it is still advantageous to have both humidification and air purification in one device.
The LW25 is an exceptional performer with a practical design. It also requires less cleaning and refilling than most competitors. Moreover, despite its high price, the cost of running it is relatively low. Long-term, it is more affordable than you might think.
Pros
- Compact, symmetrical design
- Exemplary performance
- Large water tank
- Minimal maintenance required
- Inbuilt air purifier
Cons
- Underwhelming air washer performance
- Expensive
How can you choose an energy-efficient humidifier?
The most energy-efficient humidifiers come with multiple features and functions. Some of these offerings are more important than others. These tips will help you evaluate energy-efficient humidifier models and make the best choice for your home.
1. Choose an Energy Star rated humidifier.
The most energy-efficient humidifiers available come with an Energy Star rating. An Energy Star rating means that the product has met the federally mandated guidelines of energy efficiency. The humidifier you buy must have an Energy Star and a yellow EnergyGuide label on the body.
Energy Star rated humidifiers can deliver significant energy savings. Some might be more expensive than their non-rated counterparts. Nonetheless, their energy efficiency makes buying them a worthy investment.
2. Get a humidifier with variable modes.
Ideal indoor air humidity ranges between 30 and 50 percent. Therefore, your preference for the right amount of moisture at a particular time can vary widely. A unit with variable settings enables you to adjust your room’s humidity to a comfortable level for you.
Energy-efficient humidifiers like the Taotronics TT AH001 come with inbuilt humidistats. These appliances can maintain the humidity you set automatically, minimizing the number of times you check on them.
Read also: best humidifier with humidistat.
3. A low noise output will cause less disturbance at night.
Many homeowners run humidifiers at night when the air is coldest and driest. Consequently, the most popular units moisturize the air without making it difficult for you to sleep.
Interesting read: Best humidifier for sleep apnea.
When shopping, go for a humidifier with a noise output of lower than 30 decibels. The 2.5-Liter Magictec and the 4-Liter Levoit Ultrasonic humidifier are excellent options for ultra-quiet humidification.
4. A large tank will need less frequent filling.
Humidifiers use the water in their tanks to moisturize the air. When this water runs out, the tank must be refilled. Tanks with larger water tanks generally require less frequent refilling. Meanwhile, a humidifier with an easily accessible tank can make refilling and cleaning easy. For more convenience, insist on a dishwasher-safe unit.
5. Insist on safety features
The safest humidifier is a generally safe home appliance. However, extra safety features can make you worry less when you leave your model unattended. Automatic shutoff, for instance, turns off the unit when the tank runs dry to avoid overheating. An antimicrobial feature helps to prevent mold growth in your humidifier so that the spores do not get into your air.
Conclusion
The reasons to get an low energy humidifier are plenty and convincing. You get to get rid of dry air in your home while saving on electricity bills and contributing to a greener planet.
Choosing the right humidifier is not as easy as many first-time shoppers assume. With the information above, you can put the right foot forward to get the best energy efficient humidifier for your living or working space. Keep our list and tips well in hand when you are out shopping.
Also related:
Best Humidifiers for Hard Water
Best Humidifiers For 1000 Square Feet
