Bypass humidifier

[ToolsRMe]

My HVAC guy says that he "never installs bypass humidifiers" because it introduces moisture into an area that shouldn't get moisture.

"It might work for fifteen years but why take the chance?"

Any thoughts.

[jadnashua]

If it is an evaporative type, I don't see a problem. If it injected mist, maybe. Then, I'm not a pro that sees these things every day, either.

[Gencon]

Thats great to get fifteen years out of a humidifier!
Everyone else in the HVAC industry has accepted them without issue.
They work just fine.

[ToolsRMe]

Thats great to get fifteen years out of a humidifier!
Everyone else in the HVAC industry has accepted them without issue.
They work just fine.

I contacted the manufacturer (Goodman) of my furnace by eMail. They wrote


Dear Ralph,

Thank you for contacting Goodman Consumer Affairs Division.

Our Technical Support Department says there should be no problem installing
a bypass humidifier if it is done properly. He is not familiar with Desert
Spring.


I also contacted Desert Spring by eMail. They wrote



Hi Ralph,

Thank you for contacting Desert Spring Products. I am not sure what kind of
experience this installer has had, but this is an opinion not based on fact.
He may have a valid concern if you were considering a misting or steam
system, which are 'active' humidifiers. This means they can force vapor into
the air stream which can condense out if the air is close to dew point. A
by-pass system is completely passive, which means the humidifier's vapor
will only be picked up if the air can accept the vapor. Furthermore, the air
path going through the furnace and filter is never in contact with the
furnace control board, this is safely mounted outside the air stream, so
this is complete nonsense.

Thank you,

Peter


I think it would be fair to say that it is probable that my HVAC guy is wrong and that you are right.

[hj]

Sometimes service people get an idea, and then indulge in hyperbole to convince others that it is a valid point.