How to Install a Humidistat
Like a thermostat, a humidistat helps you control the atmosphere inside the home. Instead of measuring and controlling temperature, a humidistat controls the level of moisture added to the air by a whole-house humidifier. The humidifier helps maintain a comfortable humidity level in the home by adding water to the air stream created by the HVAC system. The humidistat lets you set your preferred level of humidity, and then it controls the humidifier located on the HVAC duct.
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Choose a mounting location on the downstream duct in accordance with the humidistat manufacturer's instructions.
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Place the included template on the duct in the chosen mounting location. Place a level on the template to ensure that it is straight. Mark the hole for the probe and mounting screws with a pencil.
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Drill the hole for the probe with a 1 3/4" hole saw. Drill the holes for the mounting screws with a 3/32" drill bit.
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Remove the screw holding the cover on the humidistat. Adjust the humidistat to the desired moisture level with a flat screwdriver. Place the included three-inch washer over the probe on the back of the humidistat.
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Squeeze a 1/8" bead of silicon sealant around the probe hole in the duct. Slide the probe into the hole, aligning the mounting holes in the humidistat base with the holes drilled in the duct.
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Insert sheet metal screws into the mounting holes and tighten them securely. Route the wires in the humidistat through the hole in the bottom of the humidistat base. Place the cover on the humidistat and install the retaining screw.
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Run low-voltage wire from the humidistat to the humidifier unit. Connect the humidistat wires to the humidifier according to the humidifier manufacturer's instructions.
References
Tips
- Seal any holes around the mounting screws with silicon to prevent air leaks and increase the accuracy of the humidistat.
Warnings
- The ductwork will be sharp when cut. Wear gloves or avoid contact with the edges of the metal to avoid cuts.
Writer Bio
David Young has written for the website for the Save Darfur Coalition and is currently writing articles for various other websites. Young holds a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy from Western Carolina University.
Photo Credits
- Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
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