I Tested And Reviewed 10 Best Evaporative Cooler For Whole House (2023)

I have been married for 55 years, and I believe it's nothing short of a miracle. My spouse and I are complete opposites in many ways, but somehow we have managed to make it work. I must admit, I am usually an easy-going and calm person, although I do have oily skin. Now, you might be wondering why I mention my skin, but it actually plays a role in our story.

You see, my spouse has always struggled with irritable skin and has tried countless lotions, vitamins, and remedies to no avail. The only thing that seems to provide her some relief is high humidity. So, we decided to invest in not just one, but two humidifiers – a personal one for her bedside and a larger one for the house.

The personal humidifier sits by her side, spraying a gentle mist over her beautiful face, while the larger one sits in the middle of our house, holding a gallon and a half of water and running almost constantly. However, recently, the larger humidifier stopped working. My wife tried to fix it, but had no luck. In a desperate attempt to recreate the humidity, she resorted to boiling pans of water on the stove.

At first, I didn't pay much attention to her efforts. But soon enough, I started noticing condensation on the windows and mirrors. It became clear that the humidity was getting out of control. When I saw the water running down the mirrored closet doors and fogged-up bathroom mirrors, I knew I had to intervene.

With frustration building up, I stormed into the kitchen, only to find moisture on the floor. I quickly turned off the pans on the stove before the situation turned into a full-blown swamp. Determined to fix the humidifier, I disassembled and cleaned every part, put it back together, and filled it with water. I gave it one last menacing look and pressed the button. To my satisfaction, it started working flawlessly, releasing mist like a champ. I felt a sense of triumph and proudly declared, "Don't mess with me!"

Little did I know, my victory was short-lived. As I settled back into my comfortable chair, I received a notification from Amazon that my wife had ordered a new and more powerful whole-house humidifier. Now, I envision two humidifiers billowing out mist, and all I can think about is that it better not mess with my toilet seat.

When the new humidifier arrived, I eyed it suspiciously, but said nothing as my wife unboxed and filled it with a whopping six gallons of water. She turned it on, and to my surprise, there was no noise or visible mist. I started to wonder if it was even working. However, after a few days, I noticed my wife refilling it, and I realized that it must be functioning properly. I must say, it's a significant improvement over the old one, which my wife has now retired.

The new humidifier, which I affectionately refer to as the gentle giant, quietly does its job without causing any inconvenience. It doesn't mess with my toilet seat or fog up the windows and mirrors. As a self-proclaimed fussbudget, I can confidently say that I am a happy camper with this new addition to our home.

I recently purchased this humidifier and was initially hesitant about the water spraying where I couldn't see. However, upon further consideration, I realized that this was more of a personal preference and not an issue with the unit itself. The humidifier looks and feels good, and I couldn't find any obvious issues with it. Despite my concerns, I still gave it a 5-star rating because the problem was with me and not the product.

One of the standout features of this humidifier is its water-saving capabilities. Compared to my old humidifier, it uses significantly less water. I did have some questions about the setup, so I reached out to customer service for assistance. They were extremely helpful and patient, guiding me through the installation process. The included installation booklet was also helpful, and I realized that my initial problem was due to my own mistake.

I did experiment with using cold water initially, but I couldn't achieve the desired level of humidity. However, once I switched to hot water, the problem was resolved. It's worth noting that this humidifier does require some maintenance and adjustments to achieve optimal performance. It's not a "plug-it-in-and-forget-it" type of humidifier, but this is true for most humidifiers on the market.

In the past, I had stopped using my old whole-house humidifier due to issues with black mold. It was actually exacerbating my allergy problems. Instead, I resorted to using large ultrasonic humidifiers in each room, which was quite inconvenient as I had to constantly refill them with water. When I came across this device, it seemed like the perfect solution. The concept of producing a fine mist near the heat source of the furnace to add moisture into the air made sense to me.

Setting up the device required some additional steps, such as obtaining a piece of sheet metal and adjusting the misting heads based on my duct dimensions. I also needed a 24VAC power adapter to drive the mister, which I easily connected to an existing power source on my furnace. Supplying water to the mister was a bit more complicated, but with the help of a compression to PEX fitting, I was able to connect the existing water line to the mister using plastic tubing.

Once everything was set up, the humidifier worked perfectly. Within a day, I noticed a significant improvement in the humidity level in my space. The only drawback I found was the built-in vibrator for the misting heads, which creates some noise when the unit turns on. However, you do get used to it over time.

I recently purchased this humidifier and I have to say, I am thoroughly impressed. As someone who designs balanced central air conditioning systems, I have a good understanding of air quality, and I knew this machine would be beneficial for my recent case of bronchitis. After reading some reviews, I decided to give it a try, and I'm so glad I did.

There are numerous benefits to this humidifier that I can't even begin to list them all. Firstly, it has an automatic humidity level feature that allows me to select my desired humidity level and the machine maintains it perfectly. This is a huge plus for me as it ensures a comfortable and healthy environment.

The 3.6-gallon water capacity is also impressive, especially for a mobile unit. It allows me to easily transfer the humidifier to any room I want without the need for constant refilling. Speaking of refilling, the unit has a convenient automatic water refill system that keeps the main water storage area full. Although it makes a slight gurgling noise, it's a minor inconvenience compared to the overall performance of the unit.

One of the standout features for me is the impressive output rate. I set the humidity level to 50% and the humidifier effortlessly maintains it. It operates quietly and effectively, creating a wholesome atmosphere that is truly amazing. I can't help but wish I had purchased this machine years ago.

In terms of aesthetics, the unit is sleek and visually appealing. It blends seamlessly into any room without being an eyesore. The digital display continuously shows the room humidity, which is a nice addition. It's always reassuring to see the machine working and maintaining the desired humidity level.

Setting up the humidifier was a breeze, and it's worth every penny. The health benefits it provides are invaluable and cannot be measured in dollars. I used to go through 1 1/2 gallons of water overnight due to the dryness caused by forced hot air in my room. However, with this humidifier, the air quality has significantly improved, making it a comfortable and pleasant environment to be in.

To sum up my review, I have to say that this company really got it right with this humidifier. It ticks all the boxes for me – automatic humidity control, impressive water capacity, efficient output rate, and overall functionality. I highly recommend this machine to anyone in need of a high-end humidifier that delivers exceptional performance.

Living in North Carolina during a cold front can be a challenging experience, especially when it comes to maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. I recently faced a similar situation, and after much research, I decided to try out the H12-400HB humidifier for our 2,000 sq. ft. space. I must say, I was pleasantly surprised by its performance.

One common concern raised by other users is the effectiveness of the humidifier. However, I found that setting the humidity level at 60% and using my Nest thermostat as a guide proved to be the "sweet spot." The Nest recorded a consistent humidity level of 45%-50%, which is exactly where I wanted it. It's important to note that relying solely on the humidity reading on the unit itself may not accurately reflect the overall humidity in different areas of the house.

In terms of performance, the H12-400HB worked like a charm. Within 8 or 9 hours of use, I noticed a significant increase in humidity, with the Nest reading going from 34% to a consistent 48%. Even my usually humid basement stayed at around 41% without any treatment. So, there's no doubt that this humidifier does its job effectively.

Refilling the unit was not a hassle either. I had to refill it twice in 12 hours, and the plastic tank easily fits under our kitchen sink tap. Although it's slightly challenging to judge the water level in the tank, shining a flashlight through the plastic helped me determine the amount of water left. The box claims that it holds five gallons, but the tank itself can hold only two and a half gallons. I haven't attempted to fill the entire base of the humidifier with water, as it's not recommended.

While the unit does come with an industrial strength fan, the noise level was manageable. I opted for the lowest of the four settings, which was less noisy than my dishwasher and barely noticeable unless I actively listened for it. The higher settings do increase the noise level but are still within an acceptable range.

Maintenance is a necessary part of owning a humidifier, and the H12-400HB is no exception. Regular cleaning is required, but I didn't find it to be a problem. However, it's important to note that you will need to purchase Humidifier Bacteriostatic Treatment separately, as it's not clearly stated on the sample bottle included.

I have been using this humidifier for over 18 years, and it is still in perfect working condition. I initially purchased it from Sears, and I highly recommend buying reputable replacement wicks to ensure longevity. I made the mistake of buying some online a few years ago, and they fell apart quickly. Sears has a website where you can purchase replacement parts, and a set of four wicks costs around $32.

To maximize the lifespan of the wicks, I suggest adding anti-bacterial solution and anti-scale a couple of times a week, and ensuring that the humidifier never runs dry. With proper care, one set of wicks can last through a winter season, unless you have hard water.

Recently, I purchased the new digital version of this humidifier, and so far, it has been working well. As long as you keep it filled (I recommend adding a gallon in the morning and 1-2 gallons at night), your house can maintain a good humidity level. Despite its seemingly flimsy appearance, this humidifier is durable if you take care of it. On high settings, it can be quite noisy, but after setting it up and letting it run for a day or two, the medium setting is sufficient. I cannot comment on the longevity of the electronic display compared to the manual one, but based on my positive experience with the first humidifier, I was willing to take the chance. Overall, I highly recommend this humidifier.

I was specifically looking for a unit that can hold a large amount of water, and this humidifier does not disappoint. The best part is that it does not have a bothersome tank; you can simply dump a bucket of water right into it. The smart engineering behind this design makes it incredibly easy to fill and operate. Additionally, I appreciate the humidity readout on the top, allowing me to monitor the humidity levels. As long as this humidifier continues to run smoothly, I will continue to love it.

Living in the mountains with a humidity level of only 25%, my partner and I purchased two of these humidifiers for our open space home with no heater. We rely on wood heat, which creates an extremely dry environment. One humidifier is placed upstairs, and the other downstairs. I must warn you that they can be quite loud, but they definitely do their job in adding humidity to the air. On the first day of using them, we ran both units and woke up to ice forming on the inside of our windows. It was quite amusing! However, we found a suitable setting to prevent the ice issue from recurring. Surprisingly, we only need to run one humidifier to effectively humidify our 1750 square foot home, which is mostly open except for the bathrooms.

The fact that we have hard well water is not a concern with this humidifier's design. It simply functions by sucking up a bucket of water with a fan, so there is no worry about mineral build-up on parts. This simplicity and efficiency make it a cool product. Additionally, it emits a little cool air, which can be refreshing during the summer months when we do not have or really need air conditioning. It helps circulate the air and slightly cool down the space. All in all, this is a great product, and I highly recommend it to anyone living in a dry area.

I recently purchased this humidifier for our arid, cold climate, and I must say, it has exceeded my expectations. Previously, we had been using a small tabletop humidifier that required daily refilling and constant cleaning. The white powder that covered everything in the house was also a nuisance. However, this humidifier has proven to be a much better alternative.

First and foremost, the cost of this unit is reasonable when compared to others on the market. It offers excellent value for the price. Additionally, the noise level, even on the lowest setting, is not bothersome at all. We can comfortably use it without any disturbances.

One of the standout features of this humidifier is its long-lasting functionality. It only turns on when necessary, which helps conserve water and energy. This is especially beneficial for us, as we heat our home with wood. My husband initially had concerns about the humidity levels becoming too high, but after reading about healthy humidity levels, he is now convinced of its benefits. He hasn't experienced any nosebleeds this winter, which is a significant improvement.

I must address some of the negative reviews I came across while researching this product. Many of them seem to be a result of users not reading the operation instructions properly. We live in a 1900 sq. ft. open concept home, and this humidifier is able to maintain a comfortable humidity level even on the low setting. We haven't faced any issues with overfilling, as there is a fill line. In fact, we drew a small permanent marker line to make it more visible. The unit is also easy to move around, thanks to the wheels, even when filled with water.

Regarding electrical consumption, I measured the wattage using a watt meter. When the fan was off, it consumed only 1 watt, and on the low fan speed (F1), it used 37 watts. This information may be useful for those concerned about energy usage.

Another user mentioned concerns about potential water leakage damaging their wood floor. To avoid any mishaps, they placed a cookie sheet underneath the humidifier. This is a proactive measure that can provide peace of mind.

Lastly, I came across another review from a user with a smaller home (1600 sq ft). They mentioned that this humidifier worked well for them, but it may not be the quietest option, especially on higher fan speeds. However, they found a workaround by adjusting the fan speed based on the time of day. They also emphasized the importance of being cautious while pouring water into the unit, as pouring it into the fan can cause damage. They recommended cleaning the wick regularly to maintain its effectiveness.

I have been using the Unisys Technologies humidifier units in my home for over a month now, and I must say they have exceeded my expectations. These units are typically used in large commercial systems, so it's surprising that a smaller version for home use wasn't available until now. I have installed two of them in my home, and they work flawlessly.

The installation process was straightforward, especially if you carefully read and follow the User's Manual. I highly recommend using hot water instead of cold water for optimal performance. The physics behind it is simple – hot water produces better results. If you have a whole home water filter, you won't encounter any issues. However, if you have hard water without a filter, you might need to clean the nozzles more frequently.

Finding the perfect temperature setting may require some trial and error. The factory default is 110 degrees, but I found that adjusting it to 97 degrees on my smaller furnace and 103 degrees on my larger furnace achieved the desired humidity level. The manufacturer, Unisys Technologies, provides excellent support through email and phone. When I called, I was connected to a knowledgeable representative who assisted me promptly.

One of the significant advantages of these humidifier units is their water usage efficiency. Unlike traditional whole-home humidifiers, where water is wasted, these units minimize water wastage. In my case, I now use an average of 9 to 12 gallons of water daily for both units, compared to 80 to 110 gallons with my old humidifiers. This significant reduction in water usage translates into substantial savings on my sewer bill, almost enough to pay for both units in the first year.

I rarely write reviews, but I feel compelled to share my positive experience with this humidifier. I cannot emphasize enough the importance of using hot water for better results. It was well worth the time I spent fine-tuning the temperature settings to maximize cost savings on my sewer bill.

It's worth noting that this humidifier, like any other whole-home humidifier, requires some maintenance. I found that cleaning the nozzles with a stiff bristle toothbrush once a month is sufficient. Additionally, it is crucial to change your furnace air filters regularly, especially if you have the standard 1" or 2" filters. Changing them monthly will ensure proper airflow and save you money in the long run.

I recently purchased this product thinking it was a dehumidifier, but it turned out to be a swamp cooler. Despite my initial skepticism, I must say that I am extremely impressed with its performance. It blows cool air just as effectively as my window unit in the shop, and even more forcefully. The concept is simple – you fill the top with cold water, which soaks the panels, and the fan blows out cool air. It also comes with ice packs that can be used for even colder air.

One of the standout features of this swamp cooler is its portability. I was able to connect it to a battery backup that we use for camping, and it ran for a solid hour. This is particularly helpful during power outages or in areas with frequent power interruptions. In fact, it has become a peace of mind item for us, especially during hurricane season. We are considering purchasing a larger battery backup to extend its runtime.

I primarily used this swamp cooler in our carport, which has partial walls and is open on one side. We were sorting items from the shop for hours in 91-degree temperatures and 60% humidity. With only two water reservoir refills and alternating between the battery backup and wall plug, it kept us comfortably cool throughout the entire session.

This product has exceeded my expectations and has opened up a lot of possibilities for us. It would be perfect for a back porch, sunroom, shop, or even a tiny home. Its cooling capacity is impressive, and it can be powered by a battery connected to solar panels, making it a great option for off-grid living. It is also portable and easy to move from room to room. Additionally, it can be used in interior job sites where installing a window unit may not be feasible.

The swamp cooler itself is tall and comes with cupholders on the top lid, which is a nice touch. It rolls smoothly and is ready to use right out of the box. Simply unroll the cord, chill the ice packs, fill the water reservoir, and turn it on. It offers different levels of airflow, allowing you to adjust the cooling intensity to your preference.

I recently purchased this humidifier for my 2300 sqft house in Arizona, which has a hot and dry climate. I have tried various types of humidifiers before, but none of them were effective in increasing the humidity in my entire house. However, this humidifier has proven to be a game-changer.

One of the common complaints about this humidifier is the loud sound it produces. However, I personally did not find it to be overly loud. With nine different speed settings, even the highest speed was tolerable for me. Surprisingly, even the lowest speed was sufficient to humidify my entire house.

Another complaint I came across was regarding the small pouring area, which makes it difficult to pour water without spilling and to see the water level. In my opinion, this complaint is unfounded. Instead of pouring water directly into the small area, I found it much easier to remove the top body part and pour water into the tray with a larger pan. This method not only prevents any spillage but also makes it easier to check the water level.

One aspect of this humidifier that I absolutely love is the ease of maintenance. Cleaning is a breeze as you simply need to remove the filter part from the tray and wipe it with a dry towel. I also use a homemade detergent made of white vinegar and water to ensure thorough cleaning. It is quick, hassle-free, and keeps the humidifier in great condition.

The humidifier in question has received mixed reviews, with some users having unrealistic expectations and others being satisfied with its performance. It is important to consider certain factors before purchasing a humidifier and understand what it can realistically achieve.

One common complaint is the noise level of the unit. While it is true that any humidifier with moving parts will produce some noise, it is unfair to expect absolute silence. The reviewed humidifier offers three fan speeds, with the lowest setting being almost silent when placed on a carpeted floor at a distance of 5 feet from the bed. The medium setting is slightly audible but does not disrupt sleep, while the high setting is noticeably louder and not suitable for sleeping. It is worth noting that the lowest speed may not significantly raise the humidity level, so the high speed is recommended for daytime use when quick humidification is desired. Additionally, occasional gurgling sounds may be heard as the water refills the reservoir. If these sounds bother you, it is important to be aware of them before making a purchase.

It is crucial to manage expectations and understand that no humidifier can meet unrealistic demands. Some negative reviews stem from users expecting a level of performance that is not feasible for any humidifier currently on the market. It is unfair to blame the product for not meeting these unattainable expectations. Manufacturers should also provide more comprehensive information about the limitations and capabilities of their products to avoid misunderstandings.