CH-93-18-1 -- Analysis of Furnace-Mount Humidifier for Microbiological and Particle Emissions - Part 1: Test System Development PDF

Provides the background and description of a project that was initiated to test three commonly used furnace-mount humidifiers. The object was to determine whether particles and microbiological materials, which might be deleterious to health, would find their way into ductwork and ultimately into occupied spaces. A ductwork loop was constructed that simulated a home forced-air heating system, and a test protocol was devised. The first test series measured only naturally occurring materials and the final test used a known spiked bacteriological agent. Each humidifier was operated continuously for 90 days and tests were taken of the incoming water, the water in or passing through the humidifier and the incoming air, and the air in the duct at various locations. Temperatures were maintained in ducts at 120 deg F and humidities were dependent upon the incoming air. There was no evidence that particles or viable microorganisms came from the humidifiers.

KEYWORDS: humidifiers, boilers, testing, air pollution, indoor, health, bacteria, particles, ducts, rooms, warm air heating, measuring, temperature, humidity, water.