CPSC ISSUES ALERT ABOUT CARE OF ROOM HUMIDIFIERS
Consumer Product Safety Commission
CPSC ISSUES ALERT ABOUT CARE OF ROOM HUMIDIFIERS: Safety Alert
Dirty Humidifiers May Cause Health Problems
CPSC Document #5046
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is alerting
consumers to possible health hazards resulting from dirty room
humidifiers. The CPSC has found that bacteria and fungi often
grow in the tanks of portable and console room humidifiers and
can be released in the mist. Breathing dirty mist may cause lung
problems ranging from flu-like symptoms to serious infection.
This information is of special concern to allergy or asthma
sufferers whose symptoms may be increased.
Film or scum appearing on the water surface, on the sides or
bottom of the tank, or on exposed motor parts may indicate that
the humidifier tank contains bacteria or fungi. A crusty deposit
or scale may also form within the tank or on parts in the water.
This scale is composed of minerals that have settled out of the
water creating a surface on which bacteria or fungi may grow.
Minerals can also be released in the mist and settle as fine
white dust. This white dust may contain particles that are small
enough to enter the lungs. The health effects from inhaling this
humidifier dust are not clear, any impact on human health will
depend upon the types and amounts of minerals found in the water
used.
To reduce the possibility of health hazards from dirty room
humidifiers, the staff of the Consumer Product Safety Commission
recommends that you take the following precautions:
- Do not allow film and scale to develop in your humidifier. If
possible, change the water in your room humidifier daily. Empty
the tank before you fill it. If the tank is not removable, clean
it often according to manufacturer's instructions.
- Use distilled or demineralized water in your room humidifier to
reduce the buildup of scale and the release of dust. Do not use
tap water because it contains more minerals. Use demineralization
cartridges or filters if supplied or recommended for use with
your humidifier.
- Drain and clean the tank of your room humidifier before you
store it. Clean it after summer storage. Remove dust on the
outside of your unit.
- Clean your room humidifier well and often during the heating
season. Be sure to unplug the humidifier before cleaning. Follow
the manufacturer's suggested cleaning methods. If chlorine bleach
or other cleaning product or disinfectant is used, make sure to
rinse the tank well to avoid breathing harmful chemicals. Use a
brush or other scrubber to clean the tank. Be careful not to
damage the motor or to scratch the inner surface. Clean or
replace sponge filters or belts when needed.
- Maintain the relative humidity in your home between 30% and 50%
if possible. Humidity levels above 60% may allow moisture to
build up indoors and condense on surfaces, where bacteria and
fungi can settle and grow. You can measure humidity with an
instrument called a hygrometer, available at your local hardware
store.
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