ArcaMax

In the winter months a furnace humidifier works overtime to improve the air quality in your home and create a comfortable environment. As part of a home's heating system, a humidifier regulates the moisture level to prevent dry conditions so your family will not be susceptible to infections or dry, cracked skin. Also, a furnace-mounted humidifier has controls that monitor moisture that may cause mold and fungi to grow and rot wood.

These units fill themselves with the house's water supply, so except for occasional cleaning they are maintenance-free. In addition, a humidifier can lower your heating costs. You will find that moist air tends to feel warmer, so there's a good chance you can lower the thermostat setting and still be comfortable.

Here's a job cost comparison of hiring a contractor and doing it yourself. A heating specialist will install a bypass, flow-through humidifier for $1,327, which includes labor and material. If you have experience working with sheet metal, electricity and plumbing, you can do the job for $275, the cost of a furnace humidifier, and pocket a 79% saving.

This is a job that requires a rather intricate installation of the unit, cutting sheet metal and heating ducts and adjusting the unit to work properly. Unless you have the experience, tools and skills, leave this job to a professional heating contractor.

TIP: If you live in a very cold climate, you can prevent excessive condensation by setting the humidistat, which turns the humidifier on and off, to a lower setting.

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To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com and m.diyornot.com on smartphones.

Pro Cost — DIY Cost — Pro time — DIY Time — DIY Savings — Percent Saved

$1,327 — $275 — 6.5 — 7.5 — $1,052 — 79%

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