During the cold months like in the winter, certain ailments such as allergies, sinus and chronic coughs become more pronounced. This is because the indoor air becomes extremely dry, and thus, homeowners need to find effective means of increasing the moisture levels in their indoor environment. This is where humidifiers come in handy. These devices increase a home’s humidity by converting water into vapor and subsequently dispersing it into the air.
Generally it is normal for the humidifier to make a low level noise. However, just like any other electronic appliances, humidifiers may malfunction and start producing a buzzing, clicking or cracking sound.
NOTE: Noise defects often happen due to the following. Please note that there are many different types of humidifier such as portable, whole house humidifiers therefore solutions may vary for each and not everypoint noted above will apply. For some humidifiers general maintenance as per owners manual usually solves the noise issue unless water being used is hard which contains lots of minerals then the cleaning would be required more often. Following components if cleaned and maintained usually solves this problem.
Below are solutions for fixing a noisy humidifier ( This guide applies to most brand of humidifiers such as Boneco, Aprilaire, Crane, Holmes, Honeywell, Air Innovations, Vicks cool mist).
Lubricating the Fan
Causing The Noise Probability = 95%
Applies to Humidifier Type: Portable, Whole House
The humidifier fan is bound to generate some sound as it blows non-stop to move the moisture up and out. However, some noises are the aftermath of a mechanical glitch in the unit, and thus they call for immediate repair. When the humidifier produces a low buzzing noise, the fan could be the culprit.
Here are steps for fixing this.
- Turn off the power source or unplug the device
- Remove the bottom panel to reveal the fan and subsequently remove it by loosening the screws holding it in place.
- Flip the appliance over to reveal a small hole designed for the lubricant. (Oil needs to reach rotating elements)
- Carefully apply a drop of 3 in 1 oil into the hole while also spinning the fan to ensure that it’s evenly dispersed.
- Reassemble the device and turn it on.
Typical Fan Motor Lubrication Method
Lift Sticker at the Back to Lubricate Fan Motor
Fixing Vibrating Parts
Causing The Noise Probability = 35%
Applies to Humidifier Type: Portable, Whole House
Sometimes, a humidifier will make noise due to loose components that keep vibrating.
Here is a step by step guide for fixing this issue.
- Disconnect the device from the power supply outlet
- Remove the cover and inspect the appliance for any vibrating components
- Tighten loose screws if any
- Wiggle the fan to discover whether it’s loose on its shaft. If the user affirms that the fan is loose, they should tighten the mounting fasteners.
- The fan blades can also produce a grinding sound if they catch onto some internal components of the humidifier or when they hit the sides of the fan housing. clearing the fan housing should fix the grinding sound.
Fixing Noises Emanating from the Float Assembly
Causing The Noise Probability = 65%
Applies to Humidifier Type: Whole House
Sometimes, the humidifier will produce humming sound so loud that it can users can hear it from the upstairs bedrooms. Such noises will often begin a few minutes after turning the device on, and the sound isn’t constant.
A lot of vibrations usually accompany the noises, which emanate from the copper line linking to the humidifier. Here are the steps for fixing the problem.
- As usual, this process starts by unplugging the humidifier from the power outlet.
- Disassemble the float valve from the housing
- Users should then locate a small orifice located under the humidifier’s plumbing
- Subsequently, they need to use warm water to clean the orifice, the float valve and the button that causes the float to rise when pressed. This will serve to eliminate calcium buildup or any other solid sitting on the orifice, causing the humidifier to produce noise.
Loud noises can easily cause someone to turn off their humidifier and store it away despite the risk of inhaling stale, dry air. Whether loud or simply annoying, it helps to have the right skills and directions for stopping the common sounds produced by a defective humidifier.
Loud noises when the humidifier is running are often attributable to defective water valves, obstructed fan blades (probably by the plastic housing surrounding them), or vibrations from the mechanical components of the unit. The fan motor can also produce irritating noises due to overuse of poor lubrication.
The steps above can be used to fix a humidifier that’s producing loud, irritating noises. It’s, however, imperative to follow manufacturer instructions regarding cleaning, maintenance and repair.
That’s it folks, this is almost everything for a DIY humidifier repair. If you are unable to fix it and need to get a new humidifier then check out our review for some very good humidifiers in the market.
Updates: July 04 2019, Post was reviewed and edited by certified heating and cooling technician.
after removing screws it will not come apart what to do?
Hi Irvin, can you please tell me what brand and model you have?
My Honeywell 350 manual says nothing about the motor or fan Looked on google said to put vinegar in base and wait. Motor still makes noise when I ca get it on
Hj Jean,
You will need to use All Purpose Machine Oil and not Vinegar to resolve noise.
Vinegar is use to clean the product not fix it.