Setting up an Aprilaire Humidifier

Quck answer

To set an Aprilaire humidifier, follow these steps:

1. Check the water supply: Ensure that the water supply to the humidifier is turned on and there is sufficient water in the reservoir.

2. Adjust the humidity level: Use the control panel or dial on the humidifier to set the desired humidity level. It is recommended to keep the humidity level between 30-50% for optimal comfort.

3. Set the fan speed: Some Aprilaire humidifiers have adjustable fan speeds. Choose the appropriate speed based on your preference and the size of your home.

4. Monitor and maintain: Regularly check the humidifier’s water level and clean or replace the water panel as needed. This helps ensure efficient operation and prevents the buildup of mineral deposits.

Remember to consult the user manual for specific instructions on your Aprilaire humidifier model.


If you experience congestion or dry skin during the winter months, having a humidifier can be beneficial. This is because the heating system in your home can remove moisture from the air as it operates. Aprilaire is one of the top brands when it comes to humidifiers. While most people are aware that a basic humidifier needs to be filled with water and turned on, Aprilaire humidifiers are more complex as they work in conjunction with your furnace.

Step 1

Adjust the settings of your humidifier to suit your home. Depending on the current humidity level, you may want to increase or decrease the moisturizing effect. Set the knob to 5 or “normal” and wait for a day or two. If your home becomes too humid (such as seeing water on the windows), decrease the setting. If your home feels too dry, increase the setting. Repeat this step until you find your desired comfort level.

Step 2

Manually control your system. Once you have set up your system, it will automatically adjust the relative humidity whenever the furnace is in use. The humidifier will adjust the indoor humidity by half a percent for every one degree increase in the outside temperature. If you are not satisfied with this automatic adjustment, you can make changes. Start by turning the knob to “off” and then turning it counter-clockwise until you hear a click. Next, select your preferred humidity level (ranging from one to seven) using the dial. This will be the new level for the current outside temperature.

Step 3

Regularly test your system. Activate the test mode by setting the knob to “test.” Ensure that the furnace is turned on (there is typically a switch on the side of the appliance) and that the furnace blower is functioning correctly. Additionally, make sure that your thermostat is set to heat, meaning it is programmed to a temperature higher than the current indoor temperature. Once the furnace is properly set up, the humidifier should run for 60 seconds in this mode. If it does not, contact a heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) professional.

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