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xkcd #3044: Humidifier Review (xkcd.com)

submitted 3 weeks ago by schnurrito@discuss.tchncs.de to c/xkcd@lemmy.world

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They should add a little sticker that certifies that the humidifier supports water conservation, but in the sense of energy conservation or momentum conservation.

https://explainxkcd.com/3044/

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[–] fine_sandy_bottom@discuss.tchncs.de 5 points 3 weeks ago (13 children)

I'm not an expert on thermodynamics, but we do have a humidifier.

My laypersons understanding is that it works by booking water to steam and kinda hoping some of the steam is absorbed by the air to become humidity, rather than condensing to water vapour as it cools.

It tries to maximise the humidity by having this internal chamber to mix steam with air and catch condensation but of course some steam escapes.

That I'd to say, I think it's possible for some humidifiers to produce more humidity with less water given that inefficient humidifiers produce more steam as a waste product.

[–] MagosInformaticus@sopuli.xyz 5 points 3 weeks ago

It depends a bit on what you want to optimize for, as there's drawbacks to all the major methods:

Ultrasonic sprayers are decently efficient but spread any contaminants around your home, potentially still biologically active. Dissolved trace minerals will turn into fine dust, affecting cleaning needs.
Boiling for humidification is energy intensive because of water's heat capacity.
Air forced wicks are by default great habitat for mold and similar, so they need regular care and replacement.

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