As kids head back to school this fall, one of the main concerns is the COVID-19 virus spreading amongst students and teachers. While some schools have opted to begin the year virtually, many others are attempting to make in-person learning work. These schools are doing everything they can to create and maintain the cleanest learning environment possible. From hiring extra custodial staff to stocking up on Clorox wipes, they are ready to clean every inch of the school as much as possible to prevent the spread of the virus. Another way schools can reduce germs is through the use of industrial humidifiers. Maintaining optimal humidity levels can help reduce the transmission of airborne viruses by impeding the spread of viral particles in indoor air. These help keep schools clean and the air comfortable for students to learn. Schools can install in-duct humidifiers or place mobile ones throughout the campus.
Introduction to Humidification
Humidification is the process of adding moisture to the air to help maintain healthy indoor air quality, especially during the fall and winter months when heating systems can make the air dry and uncomfortable. Dry indoor air can lead to a range of issues, from dry skin and irritated sinuses to increased susceptibility to respiratory problems. By using a humidifier, schools can add a gentle mist—either cool mist or warm mist—back into the air, creating a more comfortable and supportive environment for students and staff. Ultrasonic cool mist humidifiers are especially popular for their quiet operation and ability to efficiently improve air quality. Maintaining the right level of humidity is essential for both comfort and health, making humidification a smart choice for any school looking to support wellness during the colder months. To understand more about the benefits of using commercial humidifiers, explore a complete guide to why optimal humidity matters.
Reduces Dust, Mold, Bacteria, and Viruses to Improve Indoor Air Quality
A Smart Fog industrial humidifier uses micron droplets to keep environments clean and healthy. Each dispensed droplet is injected with oxygen. The droplet then goes through a reverse correlation process. This reverses cohesion and maximizes adhesion. The adhesive property attracts dust, mold, bacteria, and virus particles and oxidizes them. Since the droplets are so small (4.2 microns) they can achieve 100% dust suppression.
The reduction of dust is key in school environments. Many students have preexisting conditions like asthma and allergies. These issues are further aggravated by dust. An industrial humidifier is one way to reduce dust in the environment. It is better than a good dusting routine by staff because it will prevent dust in those hard to reach areas as well.
Mold is another thing that is greatly reduced with the help of a humidifier. Mold spores in a school environment are far from ideal. This can cause illness from respiratory issues to skin conditions. Older schools are more likely than newer schools to have mold issues, so the addition of a humidifier is extremely helpful in reducing the mold spore count.
In addition, bacteria and viruses can make students very sick. This year, the biggest concern is the spread of COVID-19. Even during a non-pandemic year, things like colds and the flu can spread quickly through the school building. This year, install humidifiers that can greatly help reduce viruses. Maintaining optimal relative humidity, ideally between 40% and 60%, supports the immune system by keeping mucous membranes moist, which helps defend against airborne pathogens and reduces the spread of illnesses. Monitoring and maintaining proper humidity levels is important for both health and comfort. While humidity is a key factor, other factors such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and environmental conditions also contribute to overall indoor air quality and occupant well-being.
Non-Wetting Technology
Humidifiers are effective because they create a comfortable, clean environment. However, sometimes they leave behind wet surfaces. All Smart Fog humidifiers contain non-wetting technology which is made possible by the size of the droplets. At 4.2 microns, they are the smallest humidifier droplets on the market. This means that the droplets are fully evaporated before they ever reach any surface in the room. Unlike some humidifiers that leave surfaces covered in condensation, these models keep all areas dry. Can you imagine a classroom where the desks, paper, rug, and floor are wet from the humidifier? Not only would that be miserable, but it would also be dangerous. This is why schools must invest in humidifiers that have 100% evaporation rates. They leave the air comfortable while leaving the surfaces dry.
In-Duct and Mobile
For a school, it is a good idea to get in-duct and mobile humidifiers. The in-duct humidifiers will do a great job providing moisture to the air and reducing viruses in the school as a whole. The mobile humidifiers can be moved around the school to areas where a little more humidity or virus control is needed. When choosing a mobile humidifier, consider the size of the space—larger spaces like the gym or auditorium may require more powerful units with higher capacity. For example, it would be a good idea to place a humidifier in a nurse’s office because this is a place that potentially has a higher concentration of viruses and bacteria. If a certain classroom is having issues with a cold or flu passing around among the students, it is a good idea to temporarily place a mobile humidifier inside that classroom. Ultrasonic humidifiers, including ultrasonic cool mist humidifiers, are popular options for classrooms due to their quiet operation and efficiency. Mobile humidifiers can also be used in highly frequented areas where germs are more likely to spread like the music room, gym, library, or auditorium.
Humidifier Size and Capacity
Selecting the right size and capacity for your humidifier is key to ensuring effective coverage throughout your school. Console humidifiers are ideal for larger spaces, such as libraries or multipurpose rooms, and can humidify areas up to 1,000 square feet. For smaller rooms like classrooms or offices, a compact room humidifier may be more appropriate. The size of the water tank is another important consideration—a larger tank means less frequent refilling, which is especially convenient in busy school environments. Look for models with a wide opening or a top fill tank, such as the Blueair InvisibleMist Humidifier, to make refilling and cleaning quick and easy. Choosing the right tank design not only saves time but also helps maintain a clean and healthy environment for everyone.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is an important factor when choosing a humidifier for your school, as it can help reduce both energy consumption and operating costs. Some humidifiers, like the Dreo model, are designed to use less power while still providing effective humidification. Features such as low wattage, automatic shut-off, and energy-saving sleep mode can make a big difference in long-term energy use. Many humidifiers also offer a night light option, which can be a nice bonus for classrooms or nurse’s offices that require low lighting at night. By selecting an energy-efficient humidifier, schools can maintain healthy air quality without increasing their utility bills.
Humidifier Placement
Proper placement of your humidifier is essential for effective humidification and to prevent unwanted condensation. To ensure the mist is distributed evenly, place the humidifier at least three feet away from walls, furniture, and electronic equipment. This allows for better air circulation and helps the moisture disperse throughout the room. Avoid placing the humidifier near heating vents or radiators, as the added heat can cause the moisture to evaporate too quickly, reducing the effectiveness of the humidification. It’s also important to keep the humidifier out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidents and ensure safe operation. With the right placement, your humidifier can add moisture to the air efficiently and safely.
Humidifier Safety
Safety is a top priority when it comes to using humidifiers in schools. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold, which can thrive in a humidifier’s water tank if not properly maintained. Using filtered water instead of tap water can help reduce mineral buildup and prevent the tank from becoming a breeding ground for harmful microorganisms. Many smart humidifiers, such as the Levoit OasisMist Smart Humidifier, feature built-in humidistats that monitor and maintain the desired humidity level, automatically turning off the unit when the set level is reached. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance, and replace the filter as recommended to ensure optimal performance. By practicing regular cleaning and using the right water, schools can enjoy the benefits of improved humidity while keeping the air safe and healthy for students and staff.
Easy to Install and Low Maintenance
When schools are searching for the best humidifiers, it is important to pick one that is easy to install and low maintenance.
The Smart Fog in-duct humidifiers feature a quick and easy, plug and play installation. All the piping and fittings required to install the system are provided. They are easy to attach and quick to assemble. An additional PC communication package can be installed if the school is interested in data collection and remote system control features. In addition, the system’s CPLC Controller program can be customized to fit your school’s needs. It is also able to communicate with most Building Automation Systems and offers smart features such as remote control and scheduling, similar to most humidifiers with the same features.
The mobile humidifiers are portable and can easily be moved around the school building. Just like the in-duct system, installation is as easy as plug and go! Need to move it to another classroom or area of the school? Simply unplug, move, and plug back in.
Since these humidifiers contain no moving parts, they rarely need maintenance. These systems don’t have drains, pumps, or fans, which also results in lower noise output compared to other models. Typically the most maintenance required is to replace filters every couple of years, and replacement parts are readily available for long-term use. For routine cleaning, regular washing and rinsing of the humidifier tank is recommended. The design makes it easy to reach inside the tank for thorough cleaning, and some tanks are even dishwasher safe for added convenience. Refilling the tanks is simple, and can often be done directly at the sink, making the refill process quick and easy. Using filtered water is advised, especially in areas with hard water, to prevent mineral buildup and extend the life of the system. Investing in a quality humidifier like Smart Fog pays off in the long run due to its durability and low maintenance requirements.
Compared to other models and most humidifiers, the Smart Fog system stands out for its ease of maintenance, reliable performance, and smart features. It has undergone long term testing to ensure reliability and consistent operation. While some humidifiers allow the use of essential oils for aromatherapy or offer a warm mist setting that produces steam, Smart Fog focuses on safe, efficient humidification without the risks associated with steam or heating elements, making it suitable for use in spaces with a heating system. The system performs efficiently at both the highest setting and lowest setting, maintaining quiet operation and energy efficiency. Designed for year round use, Smart Fog provides consistent humidity control regardless of the season.
Now more than ever, schools need to be doing everything possible to reduce viruses and bacteria in the building. The COVID-19 pandemic has many parents, teachers, and school administrators worried about what in-person learning will look like this fall. An industrial humidifier is one tool that can help reduce viruses in the school environment. The adhesion technology attracts viruses, bacteria, mold, and dust, oxidizing them before they ever reach a surface or a person. For more information about Smart Fog humidifiers and how they work in the school environment, contact us today.
