Using a humidifier
 

I want to start to use a humidifier in my home to bring a little humidity to my group of phalaenopsis orchids. I'm going to put it on a timer and will probably only change the water once a week. Could someone recommend an additive to put in the water to keep it from building up mould or algae. Sometimes this occurs in humidifiers.

I would change the water more frequently. My humidifier's instructions state that I should do this daily and most humidifiers go through their entire reservoir about every day to two days and it's recommended that you drain the unit once a week and wipe it out with vinegar by the manufacturer.

If you follow the directions on your machine, you won't have to worry about fungal or algae problems (and you should be using distilled water in your machine, not tap, which will eliminate 90% of your fungal/algal issues) Any machine that you only have to do weekly maintenance on, well... if you're going to spend that much, why wouldn't you just have a whole house unit installed? The cost is about the same and it's a whole lot less maintenance.

Hello again. My place came with a reverse osmosis water filter. I put a t-joint in the supply line to the tank, and fill up a 35 gallon barrel with 'ro' water for my orchids. I also use it in the humidifier under the theory of not getting the mineral buildup. As stated above, the reservoir empties almost every day so you shouldn't be worried about bacteria. As for algae, the reservoir is usually dark enough, and empties quick enough so that none can start growing. It is quite a hassle keeping it filled.

You should not need a timer, as they come with adjustment knobs that shut off when your desired level of humidity is reached.

I you haven't bought the humidifier yet, I'd suggest going o line. When I did, I called the 800 number and was informed that they were having a 2 for 1 sale so I got two, with free shipping, for about $40.

Bacteriostat/Algicide
 

There are a number of bacteriostatic products made specifically for humidifiers on the market. Check online for sources. I have used one teaspoon per gallon of Essick Air Products Humidifier Bacteriostatic Treatment with excellent results. Sears also sells a similar product but I cannot recall the name.

I have a 2 gallon cool mist one I change every 2-3 days and it has a germ fighting component to it. I think it is for a babies room, also it is dishwasher safe!

Pilot has a drum full of water that he controls with a timer...I use a two gallon that I put on low and changes water every 36 hrs....I buy the white tablets at home depot and drop it in the water

Almost correct....it's actually on a humidistat. I set it to 80% and it'll cycle on and off keeping it usually between 75 and 82.


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