A leaky humidifier is a headache for people that want a comfortable atmosphere in their homes. It may feel like you are replacing one problem with another, but a leaky humidifier is nothing to panic over. There are some common reasons for a leaky humidifier, and they have relatively simple fixes so next time you find yourself asking why is my humidifier leaking, you don’t have to worry.
Check out our guide to fixing a humidifier that is leaking. Whether the water is seeping out the top or leaking from the bottom, there is a solution for you.
Why Is My Humidifier Leaking?
Water in Drain Line
If the drain line is not on a continuous slope, water may begin to flow the other way, causing a leak. Improper flow can also occur if something blocks the drain line. To fix this, remove the drain lines and clear them out. If that was the culprit when you replace them, the humidifier should stop leaking.
Solenoid Valve Malfunction
Sometimes the valve that directs the water in the drain line flows the wrong way. The arrow on the valve will indicate the direction of the water flow. You can easily slip the valve to flow the other way if you realize the water goes in the wrong direction. You may need a professional’s assistance if the valve is damaged.
Open Valve
Sometimes, a small piece of debris can become stuck inside the valve, so it is in the middle of the two settings. A dislodged valve can also happen if you handle the dehumidifier too roughly when setting it up or transporting it.
Check that the valve connects securely to its opening. You can remove the valve and clear it of debris, or order a replacement from the manufacturer if it’s damaged.
Evaporator Blockage
The water evaporator, also called the scale control insert blockage, can collect a build-up of dust and debris that stops it from working. Even a minor blockage can cause residue to accumulate over time. Luckily, it is pretty easy to remove this evaporator and clean it or replace it if you want a fresh one.
Excessive Water Pressure
Water pressure over 125 PSI causes leaks, so make sure the pressure is lower than that. You will need a pressure gauge or an expert to determine the pressure level and if it needs to be adjusted.
Over-filled Water Tank
This one is rather obvious but still needs to be mentioned. If you overfill your water tank, it will result in excess water spilling out over the sides and leaking.
Most people find it annoying to refill their humidifier’s water tank every day and, in some cases, more than once a day. But that doesn’t mean you can overfill it. Make sure you stop adding water when you reach the line on the side of the tank.
Overfilling your water tank can cause water to seep into the internal mechanisms of the appliance. An overflowing tank could result in a complete malfunction, and your humidifier could stop working altogether. So make sure you are following the filling instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Consequences of a Leaky Humidifier
Wood Floor Damage
If you have wood floors, a leaky humidifier can be impossibly destructive to them. Wood floors can handle water, but a slow leak that seeps into the floor, can warp and damage the wood. It is very difficult to fix warped wood and typically needs to be replaced completely.
Replacing an entire wood floor is much more expensive than fixing and maintaining your humidifier, so don’t let this happen to your home.
Broken Humidifier
Humidifiers need water to function, but that doesn’t mean every part of the appliance is waterproof. If the leak allows water to find its way into the inner workings of the humidifier, it could be irreparably damaged. Like any home appliance, humidifiers use electricity, and a leak could be dangerous.
Mold Growth
If the humidifier is in a carpeted room, the leak can result in a moldy carpet. Mold is extremely dangerous to your health.
When a humidifier leaks onto a carpet, it can take you a little while to even notice. All the while, it seeps through the carpet and creates the perfect damp environment for toxic molds and mildew to grow.
Wet Mess
Even if your humidifier is on tiles or cement that won’t be affected by water, it is still a hassle to constantly clean up water. It can also create a slipping hazard if the humidifier is in a high-traffic area of your home.
How to Prevent a Leaky Humidifier
The best way to ensure your humidifier doesn’t leak is to regularly clean the appliance and make sure you don’t overfill it. Many of the reasons for a clogged valve or blocked drain line is a lack of humidifier maintenance
The water should be changed daily, and the appliance thoroughly cleaned at least once a week. You need to keep up with standard humidifier maintenance if you want the unit to work effectively and last a long time.
Bottom Line
Don’t subject yourself to constantly mopping up the floor around your humidifier when there are solutions. If you’ve been wondering why your humidifier is leaking from the bottom, hopefully, this guide has given you an answer.
Humidifiers are a valuable addition to any home, so don’t let a little leak break up you and your humidifier.
FAQs
Should I throw away my leaky humidifier?
If your humidifier is leaking, that doesn’t mean it needs to be tossed. Try finding the problem and use this guide to fix it if it is a minor problem. Most of the time the humidifier can be fixed easily with a little elbow grease. So before you walk it out to the trash, open it up and see what you notice.
When should I call a professional for my leaky humidifier?
If you tried locating the problem using this guide and were unable to determine where the leak originated from, it may be time to call in an expert. If you realize one or more pieces of the humidifier are permanently broken, you may want to call an expert to determine if it’s better to replace the parts or replace the unit as a whole.
Is the humidifier still working if it leaks?
A leaky humidifier is likely still spraying moisture into your air, therefore still working. However, if water is leaking out it will not be able to continuously spray water because it will run out faster than normal. Most leaky humidifiers will still spray water into the air, but it depends on the size and location of the leak.