Winter is here and temperatures are dropping — and with it, the cold, dry air can make your home’s heating even drier. If you’re tired of the dry, itchy eyes, dry skin and sore throats this season, it may be worth looking into getting a humidifier for your home.
But with so many options out there, which humidifier is right for you? To help you evaluate your options, today we’ll be reviewing the Aprilaire 700 humidifier. This steam humidifier can help improve the humidity of your entire home, though at a higher initial cost to install. Overall, it can be a great option for larger homes, or those wanting a low-maintenance solution to dry air.
What Is a Humidifier?
Unlike air purifiers that clean and filter your home’s indoor air, a humidifier controls and increases the relative humidity in your space. These devices release water vapor into the air, which you may or may not be able to see as it happens. From there, this fine water vapor is distributed by air currents until the general humidity reaches a comfortable level. We’ve broken down more of the differences between air purifiers, humidifiers, conditioners and more so you can find the perfect fit for your home.
Aprilaire Humidifier 700 Review
This Aprilaire steam humidifier is a solid option we have recommended before. In fact, it ranks on our list as one of the best furnace humidifiers as a popular, trusted choice for buyers.
As far as trusted brands go, it is hard to beat Aprilaire’s quality. Established in 1954, they invented and installed the very first whole-house humidifier. With that kind of history, you can be assured that this brand has put a lot of time and effort into developing top-of-the-line products.
How Does the Aprilaire 700 Work?
The Aprilaire 700 is a furnace humidifier, sometimes called a whole-house humidifier. That means it is installed into your home’s HVAC system, and uses your furnace ductwork to distribute humidified air throughout your entire home.
The Aprilaire 700 humidifier is an evaporative humidifier. Once installed into your home, the Aprilaire pumps water into the top of the device, onto a distribution tray. From there, the water flows through an array of evenly spaced outlets, where gravity feeds it through the water evaporator panel.
When the Aprilaire 700’s sensors detect relative humidity outside your preset range, a signal is sent to your home’s furnace. Dry, hot air from the HVAC system is pulled through the now-damp water evaporator, with the Aprilaire 700’s built-in fan. The water is transformed into vapor, and the now humidified air is circulated through your home.
What’s Included With the Aprilaire 700 Humidifier
Installation Instructions and Template
Whether for a DIY project, or for turning to a professional, the Aprilaire 700 humidifier includes step-by-step instructions for a seamless installation.
Aprilaire Steam Humidifier with Built-In Fan
At 15.5 pounds, and measuring 10.34 x 15.91 x 18 inches, you might be surprised that this relatively small humidifier can cover your entire home. However, with a 4,200 square foot rating, it’s a great option for almost any home.
24 VAC Transformer
Meeting NEMA standards, this transformer safely and efficiently brings power to your Aprilaire humidifier system.
Automatic Digital Humidifier Control
This convenient at-a-glance control is the command center for your humidifier. The digital window shows percent humidity, and indicator lights show when the humidifier is running. The control also indicates when to change the water panel, and if service is required. The control panel also includes a blower activation switch — you can set the humidifier to run continuously, or only when the furnace is running.
Outdoor Temperature Sensor
Working together with your Aprilaire’s indoor humidity sensor, this outdoor sensor monitors outdoor weather conditions to help fine-tune your steam humidifier’s performance. This is a real “set it and forget it” design. Your humidifier will be monitored 24/7 to deliver optimum humidity, whatever the weather is like outside.
Saddle Valve
A DIY installer’s best friend, this brass fitting ‘saddles’ up to your existing water line, and clamps on with included bolts. When tightened down, the pin pierces the pipe, starting the low, steady water flow your humidifier will need. Perfect for those without pipefitting experience.
Solenoid Valve
The partner to your humidifier’s saddle valve, the solenoid is electronically controlled to safely manage the flow of water over the water panel.
Aprilaire Model 35 Water Panel
Designed to fit your Aprilaire 700 humidifier perfectly, this low-maintenance panel needs to be changed only once during the entire humidification season.
Pros and Cons: Is the Aprilaire 700 Right for You?
With so many humidifiers on the market, there are great options available for everyone. But these products are definitely not a one-size-fits-all solution. Here are some factors to consider when evaluating the Aprilaire 700, and other humidifiers you may be considering.
Pros of the Aprilaire 700 Humidifier
- USA-made and designed
- 5-year limited warranty
- Whole house coverage
- Low maintenance
- Automatic humidity control
- Quiet
Cons of the Aprilaire 700 Humidifier
- Challenging installation
- Space consideration
- Higher expense than others on the marke
Bottom Line
Depending on your needs, the Aprilaire 700 can be an incredible option for improving indoor humidity. If you live in a dry climate, have a larger space, or your smaller humidifier just isn’t cutting it, it may be time to evaluate upgrading to a whole-house system. We feel confident recommending Aprilaire for your home, knowing they’ll be standing behind their products season after season.
