Content
A piece of climate technology known as a humidifier is found in almost every home. It is indispensable during the heating season by maintaining an optimal level of humidity in the room. The appliance needs proper use and proper care. These features depend on its variety. For example, the ultrasonic version requires timely removal of limescale. You can descale your humidifier using the available products.
Why plaque forms
The device is used to increase the moisture content in the air, which can decrease due to:
- operation of heating devices;
- incorrect design of the location of doors and windows in the house;
- the presence of the so-called sunny side in the room;
- high or low temperatures in winter and summer.
The device allows you to maintain good health. Low moisture levels can lead to weakness, general discomfort, and dizziness. An electrical appliance is also needed to clean the room from microscopic dirt and dust. A humidifier is necessary for people with chronic respiratory diseases.
The mechanism of operation of the device depends on its type:
- devices for cold or hot humidification (use cold or hot steam, respectively);
- ultrasonic devices.
A humidifier requires systematic maintenance, in particular cleaning. The device is powered by water, which is poured into the tank. It is often the reason for the appearance of mineral deposits on the walls. That is why the use of tap water is considered undesirable.
Scale formation is a natural process. Hard water contains calcium, magnesium and other biological substances. When water evaporates, limescale forms on the parts of the apparatus and its inner walls. Plaque will shorten the life of the appliance and negatively affect air quality.
How to descale your humidifier
To remove limescale deposits from the humidifier, remove the container for water and remove other removable parts. Empty the remaining liquid from the tank before filling in the cleaner. The reservoir is thoroughly rinsed under the tap, and the body is wiped using a soft cloth. It is moistened in a concentrated solution of vinegar essence. This procedure prevents dust from settling on the surface.
How to descale a humidifier with citric acid
To remove mineral deposits, you do not need to purchase household chemicals. You can descale the humidifier with citric acid. Natural substance removes impurities and unpleasant odors.
Descaling a humidifier with citric acid is a simple procedure. The reservoir is filled with water and 60 g of powder is added. The device must be turned on for 1 hour. Then the dirt must be cleaned with a sponge.
Vinegar
The essence allows you to wash off scale in a humidifier by softening it. The composition includes concentrated vinegar (100 ml) and boiled (filtered) water, corresponding to the maximum volume of the tank. The prepared solution is poured into the cleaning tank and the device is turned on. The device lasts 30 minutes.
Soda
Sodium bicarbonate fumes are not hazardous, which makes it possible to clean indoor climate equipment. Pour water into the tank, add baking soda (60 g) and stir thoroughly. The device should be turned on for 1 hour. Then the tank is thoroughly rinsed.
By special means
The water tank should be washed using a soft cloth. Hard bristled brushes cannot be used. These products can compromise the integrity of internal parts and lead to intense accumulation of dirt. It is allowed to clean the device with a solution of laundry soap. After the procedure, the device is wiped dry.
You can remove fresh limescale in the humidifier without the use of special cleaning compounds. For this purpose, it is recommended to use a toothbrush that has soft bristles.
You can get rid of hard limescale in the humidifier using special cleaning agents. The composition is applied to surfaces following the manufacturer's recommendations.
How to descale an ultrasonic humidifier
To remove deposits, you can use solutions with the addition of vinegar essence, citric acid and sodium bicarbonate. To descale the ultrasonic humidifier, do not turn on the device. The selected composition is poured into the tank and left to soften the plaque. The duration of exposure for cleaning is several hours. Then the reservoir is rinsed under running water.
How to descale the membrane of a humidifier
The element is used in ultrasonic devices. To remove scale from the membrane of the humidifier, you need to use a special brush. It is included with the device. If not, you can use a small sponge or fleece cloth.
Descaling the steam humidifier
Popular models are those that work with cold or hot steam. To remove limescale deposits in the humidifier, turn off the appliance and drain the remaining liquid from the tank. Dirt is removed with a soft cloth, which is moistened with soapy water.
You can use a toothbrush to remove deposits in hard-to-reach areas. Cleaning must be done carefully so as not to damage the surface. Contamination from the nozzle is removed with a solution of soda, vinegar or citric acid.
Preventive measures
Adequate care is required to maintain adequate performance. The contamination is caused by the design of the device.
Steam devices resemble electric kettles. During the boil, the water is converted to steam. When combined with air, it significantly increases humidity.However, this process leads to the formation of mineral deposits and necessitates appropriate cleaning.
During the operation of ultrasonic devices, the membrane, through vibrations, develops droplets of moisture into small particles. They mix with air. Salts in the water are deposited on the surrounding surfaces and internal elements.
During the operation of a traditional electrical appliance, mineral salts are present in the cartridge. This contributes to a reduction in its service life.
If the machine is operated regularly, descale the ultrasonic or steam humidifier weekly. However, this process is highly dependent on the device model.
Conclusion
Descaling your humidifier is easy. Mineral deposits and dirt are recommended to be removed weekly. Both purchased and self-made descaling agents in a humidifier are suitable for the procedure. Regular cleaning helps prevent shortening of the machine's life and improves air quality.
