Wondering why your Homedics humidifier is not working properly? From insufficient water to faulty electrical components, there are various reasons these popular appliances fail.
When your humidifier stops misting or turns off unexpectedly, it kills the healthy humidity levels in your home. Luckily, most issues can be fixed with some simple troubleshooting and maintenance.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top causes of Homedics humidifiers not working and provide actionable solutions to get your unit back up and running. Whether you purchased your humidifier from retailers like Costco or directly from the manufacturer, these practical tips will restore functionality.
We’ll cover common problems like low water, clogged nozzles, bad humidistat sensors, and more. With a bit of easy DIY repair, you can breathe life back into your Homedics Humidifier and enjoy steady mist output and balanced humidity again.
Why is my Homedics Humidifier Not Working? Troubleshooting Guide
Wondering why your trusty Homedics humidifier is not working? There are a lot of reasons behind your Homedics humidifier not working and in this comprehensive guide, we’ll be looking at all of them in detail.
1. Insufficient Water in the Tank
One of the most common reasons a Homedics humidifier won’t turn on is insufficient water in the tank.
Homedics humidifiers have a water level sensor that prevents operation when the water level drops too low. This safety mechanism protects the humidifier from damage.
Check the tank and refill with cool filtered or distilled water to the max fill line. Ensure the tank is installed properly on the base. The unit should turn on once the correct water level is reached.
To refill your humidifier reservoir tank, follow the instructions outlined below:
1. Lift the water tank off the base of the humidifier.
2. Check the water level inside the tank. If it is empty or very low move on to the step.
3. Fill the tank with distilled or filtered water until it reaches the fill line. Make sure not to exceed this line.
4. Securely tighten the cap of the tank ensuring that it forms a seal.
5. Carefully position the tank back, onto the base. Press down firmly until you hear a sound indicating that it is properly aligned.
2. Power Problems
Like any electronic gadget, the Homedics humidifier requires consistent electrical power to operate. So, if the power cord is not properly inserted into the wall outlet, the device won’t turn on.
Also, if the wall outlet (power source) is not functioning it will prevent your unit from turning on or working. Tripped circuit breakers and faulty GFCI outlets are also culprits to look out for.
The fuse connected to the power plug should be inspected. If blown, it will need to be replaced so the current can flow. Fuses help protect against power surges.
If you suspect a power problem is the reason behind your humidifier not working, follow these steps to troubleshoot it:
1. Ensure that the power cord is fully inserted into the power outlet.
2. Examine the power cord for damage – do not use it if frayed or melted. A damaged cord poses a fire hazard and needs replacement.
3. Verify if the outlet is functioning by plugging in another device. If the outlet is dead, plug the humidifier into another outlet.
4. Reset any tripped breakers or faulty GFCI outlets. Check the circuit breaker box and flip tripped switches all the way OFF for 30 seconds, then back ON.
5. Unplug the humidifier power cord completely from the wall for 10+ minutes before plugging it back in. This power cycles the unit and clears up software glitches preventing operation.
Related: Low Voltage at Outlet
3. Water in Electrical Components
During cleaning, refilling, or moving, water from the tank can spill or leak into the base. If water reaches the internal electrical components like the circuit board, it can cause erratic operation or failure to turn on.
So, when cleaning, be very careful not to tilt or tip the filled tank. Always place it on a flat, level surface.
If water mistakenly spills into the base, immediately unplug and dry it out, before using again. The humidifier’s electrical system needs to be 100% dry for proper functioning.
If you suspect that your device is not working properly because there’s water in it, here’s what you should do:
1. If water spills or leaks into the base, immediately unplug the humidifier power cord.
2. Wipe out any standing water from the base interior. Allow the base to completely air dry for several hours before using it again.
Note: When refilling the tank, only do so while placed on a flat, dry surface away from the humidifier base. Hold the tank with both hands while carrying it full to avoid tilting and spilling into the base.
4. Faulty Float Switch
Most Homedics humidifiers have a float switch that triggers unit shutdown when the water level drops too low. If dirty, sticky, or damaged, this float switch can malfunction. It may improperly turn off the humidifier even if the tank has sufficient water.
If you notice that the float switch, in your device is dirty or sticky it may not function properly. This can lead to incorrect water level detection and cause the humidifier to turn off.
To clean the float switch, follow these steps:
1. Remove the tank. Inspect the float switch for any dirt, debris, or grime that may be hindering its movement.
2. If you find any substances gently wipe them off using a cloth or cotton swab dampened with vinegar.
3. Once you have thoroughly cleaned the float switch, place the tank in its original position.
If cleaning doesn’t resolve the issue and your humidifier still fails to turn on or work correctly it is possible that the float switch is damaged and needs replacement. Refer to your manual for guidance, on obtaining replacement part numbers.
5. Child Lock Enabled
Some Homedics humidifiers have a child lock or safety feature that disables the unit. This prevents unsupervised operation. If the child lock is mistakenly activated it will make the humidifier unresponsive.
If the child lock feature has been activated, you’ll not be able to control the device until it has been disabled. To disable it, follow the instructions outlined below:
1. Check the user instruction manual of your specific model to find out how to disengage the child lock function.
2. There is often a button or series of buttons to press and hold for 5+ seconds to disable the child lock.
Once disabled, the power button and other functional buttons should work normally again once the child lock is disabled.
6. Water Tank Not Installed Properly
The removable water tank needs to be securely attached to the base for water to flow properly which will reduce the amount of moisture in the air. An incorrectly installed water reservoir prevents the unit from working optimally.
Also, if not correctly seated and tightened, leaks can occur at the tank connection. So, when removing and refilling the tank, take care to firmly push it into place so the valve assembly aligns correctly with the base. Rotate and tighten the tank cap by turning it clockwise. Listen for an audible click or refer to the user guide for proper installation.
Also, inspect the valve and cap for any cracks or damage causing misalignment and leaking. Ensure no debris or foreign objects obstruct a tight seal.
If you suspect that your water tank is incorrectly installed, follow the steps below to properly install it:
1. Switch off and unplug the humidifier before removing the water tank.
2. Lift the tank straight up to detach it from the humidifier base.
3. Examine the tank and base for any cracks or damage to the valve assembly that connects them. Replace the tank or valve if cracked.
4. Lower the tank back onto the base, pressing down firmly until it clicks audibly into place, indicating a tight seal.
7. Clogged/Dirty Misting Nozzle
The small nozzle where mist disperses can become partially or fully blocked over time. Minerals from tap water or other debris can obstruct the nozzle. This prevents proper mist distribution.
Cleaning the nozzle opening will make your device start working optimally again. To clean the nozzle opening, do the following:
1. Dampen a cotton swab with a 50/50 mixture of distilled white vinegar and water.
2. Locate the misting nozzle on the humidifier. Gently clean the nozzle opening by inserting the cotton swab.
3. For tough buildup, fill the tank with equal vinegar and water. Let soak for 30 minutes.
4. After soaking, scrub the nozzle opening carefully with the swab or a soft bristle brush.
Related Article: Humidifier Not Misting
8. Faulty or Dirty Humidistat
The humidistat is the sensor that monitors and regulates room humidity based on the target mist settings.
If the humidistat malfunctions or gets dirty, it can inaccurately measure existing humidity. This will prevent the humidifier from misting properly to achieve the set humidity level. A faulty Humidistat can also make the unit repeatedly turn on and off.
Try adjusting the humidity setting – if no change, the humidistat likely needs replacement.
Not sure if your humidistat is faulty? Do the following to troubleshoot and replace it:
1. Adjust the humidity setting on the humidistat up and down. Observe if any change in misting occurs.
2. If no change after adjusting, the humidistat is likely faulty and needs to be replaced. Consult the manual or manufacturer for detailed instructions on how to replace it.
You may have to purchase a replacement humidifier since most humidistats are not sold separately.
9. Worn Out or Damaged Diaphragm
Homedics cool mist humidifiers have a small diaphragm that vibrates ultrasonically to produce water vapor. With excessive use over time, this diaphragm can become worn out or damaged.
When the diaphragm becomes worn out or damaged, mist output is reduced or halted completely. Replacing the worn or damaged diaphragm is required to resolve the issue. Consult Homedics support for replacement parts.
To clean a worm out diaphragm in your humidifier unit, follow the detailed steps outlined below:
1. Consult the user manual or the Homedics website to find the exact replacement diaphragm part number specific to your humidifier model.
2. If unsure, contact Homedics customer support with your model number. Ask for the correct diaphragm part number and order it.
3. Switch off and unplug the humidifier before disassembling.
4. Follow the user manual instructions to properly access and remove the old diaphragm. This usually involves removing the tank, mist chamber cover, loosening retaining screws, unplugging diaphragm connectors, etc.
5. Gently but firmly pull the worn-out diaphragm straight up and out of its housing. Avoid twisting or torque to prevent damage to connectors.
6. Inspect the diaphragm housing and connectors for any cracks or issues. Clean out any debris.
7. Check that the new replacement diaphragm is the right part for your model.
8. Carefully insert the new diaphragm straight down into the housing. You may need to rotate it slightly to fit properly.
9. Plug the electrical connectors back into the diaphragm. Refer to the manual for the correct connector order and orientation.
10. Secure the diaphragm in place with the retaining screws or clamps as per the instructions. Do not over-tighten.
11. Replace the mist chamber cover, tank, and any other parts removed during disassembly. Check that all screws are tightened, and parts securely latched.
12. Plug in the humidifier power cord and turn it on to verify normal misting operation.
10. Dirty Transducer or Heating Element
The transducer in ultrasonic humidifiers and heating elements in warm mist units can accumulate hard water mineral deposits as well as be susceptible to mold and bacteria growth over time.
For dirty transducers or heating elements, descale and clean them with an acidic white vinegar solution. To prevent mineral buildup from happening in the future use distilled or filtered water.
Do you have a dirty Transducer/Heating Element? Clean it by following these steps:
1. Fill the tank with equal parts vinegar and water. Let soak for 30 minutes to descale deposits. If heavily soiled, you can leave it for longer than 30 minutes.
2. After that 30-minute time frame, remove the tank and scrub the transducer/heating element with a Q-Tip or cloth dipped in vinegar solution.
11. Incorrect Humidity Setting
If the humidifier is set to a high humidity setting, the humidifier may not be able to add any more moisture.
To fix this problem and get your device to work normally again, adjust the humidistat to a lower setting between 40-50% relative humidity. This prevents excess moisture buildup. You can use a hygrometer to monitor the ideal humidity range for your environment before adjusting.
While you are adjusting, if you notice any condensation on the surfaces near the humidifier, wipe them clean to prevent dripping and leaks.
High humidity settings aren’t the only things to look out for. If your humidity setting is too low (i.e., lower than the current room humidity) your humidifier will not work (give out mist).
To troubleshoot and adjust a low humidity setting, do the following:
1. Check the hygrometer and determine the current room humidity percentage.
2. Adjust the humidistat setting to 5-10% higher than the existing humidity.
3. Allow time for the humidistat sensor to adapt to the new setting.
12. Wick Filter Needs Replacing
Some Homedics humidifiers have a wick filter that absorbs water for distribution into the air.
When the wick becomes dirty, clogged, or worn out, it restricts water flow. As a result, no mist occurs since the filter is unable to channel water.
Replace the used wick with a new one of the same type to restore misting capabilities.
To clean or replace the wick filter in your humidifier, follow these steps:
1. Remove the wick filter following instructions in the user manual.
2. Soak the wick in distilled white vinegar for 30 minutes to clean it. After soaking, rinse the wick filter and let it air dry.
3. Insert the cleaned or new replacement wick filter back into the humidifier.
Related: Replacement Filters
13. Unit Too Old and Needs Replacing
With regular use over many years, internal components like the humidistat, heating element, float, and electronics will eventually wear out and malfunction.
An older Homedics humidifier that repeatedly shuts off on its own likely needs replacing, especially if other troubleshooting has not helped. Purchasing a new humidifier restores reliable operation.
New Costco Homedics Humidifier
Final Thoughts
A non-functioning Homedics humidifier can create dry, uncomfortable air in your home. However, with some simple troubleshooting and maintenance, you can often get these popular appliances working properly again.
Low water levels, power problems, faulty parts, and mineral buildup are some of the most common issues covered in this guide. By refilling the tank, checking electrical connections, cleaning or replacing parts like the float and nozzle, and descaling dirty components, you can restore normal operation in many cases.
While you may need to invest in a replacement humidifier if problems persist, following the step-by-step instructions provided will get your Homedics misting consistently again in no time.
With the right care and maintenance, your Homedics humidifier can continue humidifying your air for years to come. So don’t hesitate to tackle any problems head-on and breathe new life into your unit!
Related Article: Homedics Humidifier Red Light
Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.
