What to Know Before Buying a Humidifier

HomeDepot.com, $1,499 Features: Circulates air at up to 5000 CFM Cools up to 1650 sq. ft. for whole-house cooling Comes with a ¾ hp, 2 speed, 115V motor, pump, rigid media, pulley, purge system, and deluxe thermostat Uses high performance 12 in. rigid media Exterior surfaces electrostatically coated for weather and impact resistance Unique perforated air inlet screen provides more air flow than the competition Thermoplastic water reservoir prevents corrosion Up to 75% energy savings over traditional air conditioning Single inlet design for maximum cooling Engineered for easy access and maintenance UL Classified for safe operation Ideal for dry, arid climates (HomeDepot.com)

BedBathandBeyond.com, $49.99 Features: Cool mist humidifier features variable mist output control and a variable humidity control feature. It has whisper-quiet operation and an auto-off function when water tank is empty. The removable water tank holds 0.9 gallons, and the running time is 11 hours. Suitable for room size measuring approximately 250 square feet. (BedBathandBeyond.com)

Target.com, $179.99 Features: Ultrasonic technology uses high-frequency vibrations to generate a micro-fine mist Fan blows mist into the room where it immediately evaporates adding to overall comfort Automatic shutoff Comes with a Hydro Stick installed For rooms up to 650 sq. ft. (Target.com)

Amazon.com, $66.58 Features: Tank and tray are dishwasher safe EasyFill tank for fast easy refills Humidifier runs on three settings Up to 24 hours of operation and covers 1200 square feet Approximately 2.5 gallon tank with 4 gallon output per day (Amazon.com)

Amazon.com, $31.49 Features: Automatic Shut-off 1-gallon capacity; operates up to 12 hours on a single filling Quiet operation. Soft glowing nightlight. 2 Comfort settings Medicine cup allows the use of Vicks Vaposteam or Kaz Inhalent to produce a medicated vapor that sooths (Amazon.com)