An ultrasonic humidifier is a device that uses ultrasonic sound waves to create water droplets from a built-in water reservoir. Ultrasonic humidifiers are used in many homes, businesses, and warehouses to properly humidify an area without using heat. Because ultrasonic humidifiers do not use heat, they use much less electricity (approximately 93% less) than other types of humidifiers and users do not have to wait for the water to boil. Ultrasonic humidifiers are usually portable and can be turned on and off instantly.

How does an Ultrasonic Humidifier Work?
Ultrasonic humidifiers use a metal plate that vibrates back and forth at a very high frequency in order to create an ultrasonic pitch. Although humans cannot hear ultrasonic noises, they are very effective at dislodging dirt from surfaces, transmitting information, navigating unseen areas, and much more. In the case of ultrasonic humidifiers, ultrasonic vibrations within the water cause water molecules to break apart while pressure created at the surface forces the water droplets to exit the humidifier as a cold fog.

Types of Ultrasonic Humidifiers
There are two types of ultrasonic humidifiers: portable and HVAC-compatible. Although a wide variety of humidifier designs and models are on the market, all ultrasonic humidifiers fit into one of these two categories. Portable ultrasonic humidifiers allow the user to humidify an area while traveling, humidify a single room, and easily clean the device. Some portable ultrasonic humidifiers are battery operated, but some require the user to plug the device into an outlet or car cigarette lighter. HVAC-compatible ultrasonic humidifiers are stationary and are used in conjunction with an HVAC (Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning) system in order to humidify an entire home or office. This type of ultrasonic humidifier often draws its power from the house’s main power supply. It must also be frequently cleaned with a solvent in order to avoid contaminating the water it uses.

Are Ultrasonic Humidifier Safe?
For the most part, ultrasonic humidifiers are safe. The ultrasonic frequencies that an ultrasonic humidifier generates are not dangerous to humans and pose no health risk to the user. However, because ultrasonic humidifiers do not use heat to nebulize the water, water contaminants can be projected into the air, which the user breathes in. Water contaminants may include viruses, bacteria, fungi, and minerals and are often referred to as “impurities.” Impurities in an ultrasonic humidifier can be prevented by only using purified water, using some type of filter, and cleaning the device regularly.

Crane EE-5301 Blue 2.3 Gallon Cool Mist Humidifier
The Crane EE-5301 Blue 2.3 Gallon Cool Mist Humidifier is an ultrasonic humidifier that is completely silent and has an automatic off function. The Crane EE-5301 is a relatively portable ultrasonic humidifier that can hold and dispense up to 2.3 gallons of water over an 11 hour session. The Crane EE-5301 is not only stylish, but it is practical. It includes a removable water tank and variable mist output control. The Crane EE 5301 is ideal for a 250 sq. ft room and sells for under $40.

Air-O-Swiss AOS 7135 Ultrasonic Warm Mist Humidifier
The Air-O-Swiss AOS 7135 Ultrasonic Warm Mist Humidifier is another portable ultrasonic humidifier. Its features are significantly better than the Crane EE-5301. The Air-O-Swiss is a much safer and cleaner option than other ultrasonic humidifiers because it includes a removable demineralization cartridge that collects calcium, iron, and other minerals, a stick of ionized silver that prevents microbes such as bacteria and viruses from growing, and a temperature control system that maintains a constant, ideal humidity level. The Air-O-Swiss includes a 3.5 gallon water tank, fully digital controls, and is suitable for a 650 sq. ft room. The device sells for an average of $150.