Restoring Water Flow To Your Whole-Home Humidifier
In a lot of homes, people fight to eliminate the moisture inside all summer long, but now that winter has hit, the struggle turns to adding moisture to the air. Winter air is dry and damaging, but it's not something that you should really have to worry about. A whole-home humidifying system on your HVAC system can be the solution to your problem, but when it doesn't get the water that it needs, you will need to give it some attention. Here, you'll find out what to do if the humidifier isn't getting any water.
Check the Inlet Valve
One of the most common problems that prevent water from making it to the humidifier is the water inlet valve. To find out if the inlet valve is the issue, you'll need a multimeter tester. Touch one end of the valve with a probe and the other end with the other probe. You should get a reading of continuity – if not, the valve will need to be replaced.
If the valve has passed that test, check the small filter inside the orifice attachment of the valve. Remove the piece and inspect it for damage and clogs. Soak it in a cup of white vinegar for a few hours if you see that the screen is coated with debris. The vinegar will break down the sediment and open up the screen again. Rinse the screen and put the part back in place. Test the system. If the water is flowing again, awesome – you've fixed it. If not, you'll need to keep on testing.
Humidistat Problems
The humidistat may need to be adjusted. Turn it to the highest setting and listen for it to click – if it doesn't click, the part needs to be replaced. When you hear the click, you should hear the water begin to flow. If it clicks and the water doesn't start flowing, the issue isn't with the humidistat.
Try the Saddle Valve
The last thing for you to check is the saddle valve: the brass valve located near the water supply line which connects to the humidifier. Turn off the water and disconnect it. Inspect the inside of the piece for build-ups of calcium or other deposits.
If the part is caked with debris, soak it in a cup of white vinegar for a while – this could fix it – or you can take the part to your local supply store and pick up a replacement.
If all of this fails to get the humidifier working again, you'll want to contact a plumbing contractor for assistance.