Affordable Humidifier Dehumidifier Combo Options

Are you struggling to maintain a comfortable level of humidity in your home or office? Have you considered a humidifier-dehumidifier combo?

When it comes to dealing with moisture in the air, a humidifier-dehumidifier combo would be the perfect solution – if such a thing existed… or does it?

While some may believe that such a product is impossible, the truth is that there are a few options available on the market today. But are they the right choice for you? Let’s explore the world of humidifier dehumidifier combos and discuss their features and benefits, so you can decide if they’re worth the investment for your unique needs.

The Truth About Humidifier Dehumidifier Combo Units

Dedicated humidifier-dehumidifier combo units that perform both functions within a single device are not widely available on the market. Humidifiers and dehumidifiers are designed with distinct technologies and mechanisms to either add moisture to the air (humidifiers) or remove moisture from the air (dehumidifiers).

However, some devices may offer both humidification and dehumidification capabilities within the same unit, but they typically work as standalone devices rather than simultaneously. For instance, some advanced HVAC systems might integrate humidification and dehumidification features to regulate indoor humidity levels. These systems can switch between humidification and dehumidification modes based on the detected humidity levels.

If you’re looking to achieve both humidification and dehumidification in the same space, you might need to consider using separate humidifier and dehumidifier units. However, technology and product offerings can evolve, so it’s worth checking every now and then to see if there have been any new products released.

Understanding Humidity Control

Humidity and Its Effects on Indoor Environments

Humidity refers to the amount of moisture present in the air. It plays a crucial role in maintaining indoor comfort and overall well-being. When the air is too humid, it can feel muggy and uncomfortable. On the other hand, low humidity levels can lead to dry skin, irritated respiratory passages, and an increased susceptibility to respiratory infections. Additionally, improper humidity levels can impact indoor spaces by encouraging mold growth, damaging wooden furniture, and causing paint to peel.

Differentiating Between Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers

Humidifiers and dehumidifiers are devices designed to regulate indoor humidity levels, but they serve opposite purposes. Humidifiers add moisture to the air, increasing humidity levels in environments where the air is too dry. This is particularly beneficial during cold winter months when indoor heating systems can lead to dry air. Dehumidifiers, on the other hand, reduce moisture in the air, making them essential in spaces where humidity levels are excessively high, leading to discomfort and potential mold growth.

Benefits of Using a Combination Device

While dedicated humidifier-dehumidifier combo units are not commonly available, the concept of combining these two devices into one is intriguing. Such a combination device could potentially offer the best of both worlds by allowing users to adjust humidity levels according to their needs. For instance, during transitional seasons, when humidity levels can fluctuate, a combination device might automatically switch between humidification and dehumidification modes to maintain optimal indoor conditions.

However, it’s important to note that creating an effective and efficient combo unit presents technical challenges due to the contrasting mechanisms of adding and removing moisture from the air. Manufacturers would need to balance these functions without compromising performance or causing operational issues. In the absence of dedicated combo units, homeowners seeking both humidity control functions may need to consider using separate humidifiers and dehumidifiers strategically placed in different areas of their living spaces.

In the following sections, we will delve into the specific factors to consider when selecting individual humidifiers and dehumidifiers, along with affordable options available in the market for each. While a combination device might be an exciting idea, it’s crucial to make informed decisions to achieve the desired indoor comfort and health benefits.

Humidity Control Options

There are four main appliances available to combat the ongoing battle with humidity control. They each serve a primary function and are essential for living in any climate that is not at the optimum humidity level, especially for any home that is humid. They are:

• Humidifiers
• Air Purifier Humidifiers
• Dehumidifiers
• Extractor Fans

Here we will talk about each of these types of appliances, and how they can help you to control the moisture and humidity in your home.

Humidifiers

A humidifier makes a room or living space “more humid” by increasing or adding moisture to the air. The primary time of year when you would use a humidifier is in the winter months. Air is typically much drier in winter than it is for the rest of the year.

Dry air can result in various health issues ranging from:

• coughing,
• sneezing,
• dryness of the throat, and
• dry, flaky skin.

If you suffer from any of these symptoms it may be because the air in your room or home has low humidity. Read more about how low humidity can affect your health and comfort levels here.

Humidifiers come in a few different styles, as listed below:

1. Evaporative Humidifiers: These humidifiers use a fan to blow air through a wet wick or filter. The air absorbs moisture from the wick and circulates it into the room. They provide cool mist and are generally safe for all ages. They are often more budget-friendly and don’t require as much maintenance as some other types.
2. Ultrasonic Humidifiers: Ultrasonic humidifiers produce mist through ultrasonic vibrations that break water into tiny droplets. They can provide either cool or warm mist, depending on the model. Ultrasonic humidifiers are generally quieter and use less energy, but they may require more frequent cleaning to prevent bacterial growth.
3. Steam Vaporizers: Steam vaporizers heat water to produce steam, which is then cooled slightly before being released into the air. They provide warm mist and are particularly useful for relieving respiratory symptoms. However, they consume more energy and can be hot to the touch, making them more suitable for use around older children and adults.
4. Cool Mist Humidifiers: These include both evaporative and ultrasonic humidifiers that produce a cool mist. They are great for adding moisture to the air without raising the room temperature. Cool mist humidifiers are generally safe for use around children and pets.
5. Warm Mist Humidifiers: Warm mist humidifiers, such as steam vaporizers, produce a warm mist by heating water. The warmth can help ease congestion and respiratory issues. However, they can be a bit riskier around children due to the hot water and steam they produce.

For more information on humidifiers, check out the following in-depth posts:

• For whole-home humidifiers, which involves hooking up a humidifier to your furnace, click here, or
• For filterless humidifier options, which are great for smaller areas such as individual rooms, click here.

Air Purifier Humidifiers

An air purifier humidifier has one extra feature when compared to the average humidifier. It removes many particles trapped in the air including pollen, dust, pet dander, mold, and odor.

The way in which this works is through a simple filtering system. By using a removable and washable filter, the unit traps and contains these particles for disposal.

As for the humidifier functions, there is no difference between a regular humidifier and an air purifier humidifier.

Dehumidifiers

If a humidifier adds moisture to the air, what do you think top-rated dehumidifiers do? If you guessed that it reduces the moisture content in the air around us, you would be correct.

Conditions where too much water content in the air can result in the creation of corrosion and that generally leads to rust formation. Excess moisture can also lead to the formation of mold and mildew which can be bad for your health.

If you are a collector of:

• antiques (especially metal and leather) of any kind
• classic automobiles, or
• have a gun collection

you will want to control the moisture content to reduce the risk of corrosion and mold which can reduce the value of your collection. With this in mind, one of the best small dehumidifier options is the tool for the job.

There are many different types, but they fall into 3 main categories:

1. Refrigerative (Compressor) Dehumidifiers: These dehumidifiers work similarly to air conditioners. They use a refrigeration cycle to condense moisture from the air. Here’s how they work:
   • A fan draws in moist air.
   • The air passes over cold coils, causing the moisture to condense into water droplets.
   • The water droplets collect in a reservoir, while the drier air is reheated and released back into the room.
   • Some models also include a humidistat to regulate the humidity level.
2. Desiccant Dehumidifiers: These dehumidifiers use a desiccant material (a substance that absorbs moisture) to remove humidity from the air. The process involves:
   • The fan draws in air.
   • The air passes over the desiccant material, which absorbs moisture.
   • The moist air is then expelled outdoors or passed through a reheating process before being released back into the room.
   • Desiccant dehumidifiers are particularly effective in low-temperature environments and often operate quietly.
3. Whole-House Dehumidifiers: These dehumidifiers are integrated into HVAC systems and are designed to control humidity levels throughout an entire house. They work by:
   • Drawing in air from various parts of the house.
   • Passing the air over cooling coils to condense moisture.
   • Reheating the air to its original temperature before distributing it back through the HVAC system.
   • This approach ensures consistent and balanced humidity levels throughout the home.

It’s important to note that different dehumidifiers are better suited for specific situations. Refrigerative dehumidifiers are commonly used for general household use, while desiccant dehumidifiers excel in colder conditions. Whole-house dehumidifiers are ideal for maintaining consistent humidity levels across larger spaces.

There are also many different applications that dehumidifiers are designed for, including:

• RV dehumidifiers,
• Gun-safe dehumidifiers,
• Garage dehumidifiers,
• Basement dehumidifiers,
• Whole house dehumidifiers,
• etc.

Each design fits a specific use and works to keep humidity below 60 percent – the level where corrosion can start to form.

Extractor Fans

Extractor fans simply suck out the humid air so that it does not have a chance to cause problems with condensation, mold, and mildew buildup. These are particularly useful in areas with concentrated humidity problems, such as bathrooms and stovetops.

Here are the main types of extractor fans:

1. Wall-Mounted Extractor Fans: These fans are installed in external walls and are commonly used in bathrooms and kitchens. They expel air directly to the outside.
2. Ceiling-Mounted Extractor Fans: These fans are installed in the ceiling and are suitable for spaces where wall installation is not feasible. They are often used in bathrooms and large kitchens.
3. Window Extractor Fans: These fans are designed to fit in windows and provide ventilation in areas where other types of installation might be challenging.

Each type of extractor fan serves the purpose of expelling stale air, odors, and excess moisture from indoor spaces, contributing to better indoor air quality and humidity control.

We have written an in-depth post on Automatic Humidity Control Systems. Make sure that you check it out here.

Factors For Humidifier or Dehumidifier Selection

Size and Capacity According to Room Dimensions

Selecting the right size and capacity for your humidifier or dehumidifier is crucial for effective performance. The unit’s capacity is often measured in terms of the volume of moisture it can add or remove from the air in a specific period, usually in gallons per day (GPD) or pints per day (PPD). Choosing a unit that is too small for your space may result in inadequate humidity control, while an overly large unit can lead to excessive moisture or energy consumption. Measure the square footage of the area you intend to use the device in and refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for the appropriate capacity.

Humidification or Dehumidification Technology Suitable for Your Needs

Different technologies are employed in humidifiers and dehumidifiers to achieve their respective functions. For humidifiers, common technologies include evaporative humidification, ultrasonic humidification, and steam vaporization. Each technology has its advantages and considerations, such as noise level, maintenance requirements, and the size of water tanks.

For dehumidifiers, technologies like refrigerative (compressor) dehumidification and desiccant dehumidification are used. Refrigerative dehumidifiers are ideal for larger spaces and higher humidity levels, while desiccant dehumidifiers excel in lower temperatures and are often quieter.

Understanding the technology that suits your specific needs will help you make an informed decision about which type of device to choose.

Additional Features and Settings

• Humidistat and Hygrometer: A humidistat is a built-in device that measures humidity levels and automatically adjusts the operation of the humidifier or dehumidifier to maintain a set humidity range. A hygrometer, on the other hand, is an external device that displays the current humidity levels. Units with built-in humidistats provide a convenient way to achieve consistent and comfortable indoor conditions.
• Programmable Controls: Some advanced units come with programmable controls that allow you to set specific humidity levels for different times of the day. This feature is particularly useful for achieving optimal comfort while saving energy during periods when you might not need as much humidity control.
• Auto-Shutoff and Timer Functions: An auto-shutoff feature turns off the unit when a desired humidity level is reached or when the water reservoir is empty, preventing over-humidification or over-dehumidification. Timer functions let you schedule when the device operates, helping you manage energy usage and humidity levels according to your daily routine.

Considering these additional features and settings can greatly enhance the convenience and effectiveness of your chosen humidifier or dehumidifier. As you compare different products, pay attention to the availability of these features and how they align with your preferences and lifestyle.

Humidifier and Dehumidifier Options

Unfortunately, humidifier-dehumidifier combo options that are combined into one unit are rare. But this may be for a few (good) reasons:

• Typically, most people only want one or the other
• It increases the size of the unit, as well as the cost and complexity
• For the combo units that do exist, the manufacturers have typically just combined the 2 individual units into one. So if one unit stops working, it means that you still have to keep the broken unit so that you can use the part that still works, or throw out the lot and replace it all (remember the combo VCR / DVD players – if one player broke, you had to either keep the whole unit and buy just the unit that stopped working, or throw out the whole lot which meant throwing out the 1/2 that did work, and replace it all)
• It can be better to purchase 2 individual units because the capacity requirements are different for each application

With all that in mind, here are some of the different Humidifier and Dehumidifier options on the market at the moment:

Hoomace 3 In 1 Small Humidifier Dehumidifier Combo With Air Filtration

Let’s face it; the humidifier dehumidifier combo is a difficult product to find, yet Hoomace has one item they like to promote as a “3-in-1” appliance.

This 3-in-1 Small Humidifier Dehumidifier Combo unit seamlessly combines the capabilities of a humidifier, dehumidifier, and air purifier, providing versatile moisture control and air filtration for your home or office. Whether it’s humidifying your space during dry winter months, dehumidifying in the rainy season, or maintaining your ideal humidity levels year-round, this compact and efficient unit has you covered.

With four distinct modes to choose from, including automatic, humidification, dehumidification, and forced humidity removal, you can easily tailor the device to suit your specific needs. The generous 1000ml water tank can be removed for convenient filling and, when connected to the included 40cm drain hose, ensures continuous operation without the hassle of frequent drainage.

The timer function allows you to schedule the unit’s operation to fit your lifestyle, and the default humidity display keeps you informed about the current environment. Plus, the seven-color LED lights provide a soothing ambiance that you can customize to your preference. Experience a comfortable and healthy indoor atmosphere with the Hoomace 3-in-1 Small Humidifier Dehumidifier Combo.

To see more info on the Hoomace 3 In 1 Small Humidifier Dehumidifier Combo, click the button below.

Boveda Cube Humidifier/Dehumidifier

One solution to manage humidity for very specialized applications is the Boveda Cube Humidifier/Dehumidifier combo.

You can use these packs to keep cigars, herbal medicine, and other smoking material at precise relative humidity levels. These levels are clearly indicated on the front of the packaging, which are at 58, 62, 65, 72, 75, and 84% RH.

Each pack has a 2-year shelf-life, so storage should not be a problem as long as they are kept well sealed before usage.

Even though they are only for very specialized usage, they work very well and have received very good reviews from customers. Most people place a pack or 2 in a humidor instead of using crystals to maintain a constant humidity level, keeping their cigars fresh with minimal hassle.

Some people have found they work well in other applications, including guitar storage.

Honeywell HUL535W Cool Mist Humidifier

This humidifier has a 1-gallon tank which will allow it to run up to 24 hours on a single filling. It is not a humidifier dehumidifier combo but is a great unit to use along with one of the best small dehumidifiers available.

It is a filter-free humidifier, so does not use filters.

Although made in China, this product is easy to operate and it provides efficient humidity control.

One thing to keep in mind… while this is a cool-mist humidifier, it does not change room temperature – it changes room humidity. It is rated to increase humidity in rooms up to 600 square feet.

Click the Amazon button below for more information on the Honeywell Cool Mist Humidifier. And make sure to have a quick look at the short video below of a similar Honeywell model…

Frigidaire 50-Pint Top-Rated Dehumidifiers

This is one of the top-rated dehumidifiers on the market and for good reason. If you are considering purchasing a humidifier-dehumidifier combo, this one will definitely fill in half of that equation.

It is Energy Star rated meaning it is energy efficient and is able to draw up to 50 pints of water per day from the air.

It has a SpaceWise design which includes:

• a top handle,
• side handles integrated into the unit, and
• caster wheels

for easy and fast movement from room to room or wherever you need it to operate.

There’s also an antibacterial mesh filter and an easy-to-access collection container with an indicator to tell you when it is full.

On top of this, there is a built-in pump that connects to a hose for continual discharge of water, even in an upward direction to a sink or through a window.

Otherwise, this is a great product to be part of a humidifier-dehumidifier combo.

Click here to see our full review of the Frigidaire 50-Pint Dehumidifier. And also have a look at the video below for more information and to see it in operation…

Tips To Help In Making the Right Choice

Comparing Humidifier Options

When comparing humidifier options, consider factors such as the size of the area you want to humidify, the type of technology you prefer, and any additional features that align with your requirements. Evaporative humidifiers are budget-friendly and suitable for larger areas, while ultrasonic humidifiers are quieter and work well in bedrooms. Steam vaporizers are effective for respiratory issues, but they consume more energy.

Pay attention to the water tank size, as a larger tank requires less frequent refilling. Also, consider the ease of maintenance and cleaning, as well-maintained humidifiers ensure healthy air quality. Reading user reviews can provide insights into real-world performance and any potential issues you might encounter.

Comparing Dehumidifier Options

Dehumidifier options vary based on technology, capacity, and specific use cases. If you’re dealing with high humidity levels in large spaces, a refrigerative (compressor) dehumidifier might be your best bet. For colder environments, such as basements, a desiccant dehumidifier could be more effective.

Look for energy efficiency ratings, as this will impact long-term operating costs. Consider noise levels, especially if the unit will be placed in a frequently occupied area. If you’re interested in whole-house dehumidification, explore options that can be integrated into your HVAC system.

Reading professional and user reviews can give you a better understanding of how different dehumidifiers perform under various conditions.

Considering Your Specific Needs and Priorities

Ultimately, the right choice between a humidifier and a dehumidifier, as well as the specific model, depends on your unique needs and priorities. Think about the following:

• Health Concerns: If you or your family members have respiratory issues, allergies, or dry skin, a humidifier can offer relief. Conversely, excess humidity can encourage mold growth and aggravate respiratory problems, in which case a dehumidifier is essential.
• Climate and Seasons: Consider your local climate and how the seasons affect indoor humidity. You might need a humidifier during dry winters and a dehumidifier in humid summers.
• Room Usage: Identify the rooms where humidity control is most crucial. Bedrooms, living rooms, and basements often require special attention.
• Budget: While affordability is a key factor, it’s essential to find a balance between upfront cost and long-term performance. Energy-efficient models might have a higher initial cost but can lead to savings over time.
• Maintenance: Some models require more regular cleaning and maintenance than others. Factor in the effort you’re willing to put into upkeep.
• Features: Choose features that align with your lifestyle, such as programmable settings, timers, and auto-shutoff functions.

By evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision that ensures your indoor environment remains comfortable, healthy, and conducive to your well-being.

Humidifier Dehumidifier Combo FAQs

When it comes to maintaining ideal humidity levels in your home, a humidifier-dehumidifier combination is a practical and effective option. This all-in-one unit combines the functions of both a humidifier and a dehumidifier, making it a popular choice for many households.

Here, we answer some frequently asked questions about humidifier-dehumidifier combos to help you choose the best option for your needs.

What Is The Best Humidifier Dehumidifier Combo?

If you are unable to locate an actual all-in-one product that combines the features of a humidifier and dehumidifier, your only option may be to buy one of each.

There is a good chance that you won’t need both of them operating at the same time. But depending on your climate and the condition of the air in your home, you may need both units to keep a constant comfortable environment in your home.

With this in mind, we have presented some of the top-rated dehumidifiers & humidifier suggestions here. Make sure that you check out the options above. These can make the best humidifier dehumidifier combo options based on price, quality, and performance.

We hope you enjoyed our article about the best humidifier dehumidifier combo products. We know that it can be tough to find the best all-in-one products, but if you know what to look for, you should be able to find a solution that works for you.