Do I Need a Humidifier in My Home?

The buildup of dust, bacteria, or mold inside the unit can cause musty or unusual odors from your humidifier. For portable units, a musty smell often indicates the need to change the tank water or clean your humidifier. If you notice smells from your whole home humidifier, the cause may be a clogged drain line, a filter that needs changing, or mold growth inside your ductwork. If the issue persists, contact an HVAC professional.

The most common reasons for a humidifier not misting include:

• No power
• Grime and mineral buildup
• Humidity settings are off
• Float valve is loose, jammed, or broken

If these issues aren’t resolved by cleaning your unit, checking power connections, or adjusting settings, contact your local Aire Serv professionals.

Replace humidifier filters at least once every 3 months to minimize dust, grime, and potential mold buildup. If you have more significant home pollutants or higher allergy sensitivities, you may need to replace your filters more frequently.

If you notice dry air symptoms, inconsistent humidity levels, or water pooling around your unit, it’s time to call for humidifier maintenance and repair services. Common home humidifier repairs include:

• Leaks or broken seals
• Loose wiring or parts
• Faulty humidistat, solenoid valve, or distribution tray
• Malfunctioning fan, motor, belt, control board, or electrical setup
• Clogs in the drain line, valves, or filters
• Lack of lubrication

Yes. A poorly maintained humidifier can cause moisture issues or strain your HVAC system. That’s why Aire Serv integrates humidifier services into your overall HVAC maintenance plan. Have your humidifier inspected at least once a year—ideally before the heating season begins—to ensure efficient operation.