Nothing strikes fear into the heart of a Homedics humidifier owner like seeing that ominous red glow emanating from their trusty appliance.
While the alarm bell it sets off can be annoying, the light serves a helpful purpose.
By understanding what triggers the indicator and learning some simple maintenance tips, you can swiftly decode issues and get your humidifier performing like new again.
Consider the red light your humidifier’s way of letting you know it just needs a little TLC – it’s an aide, not an enemy.
This guide will walk through the root causes of the Homedics red light, easy troubleshooting steps, and proactive care to banish that menacing beam for good.
Homedics Humidifier Red Light: What is it?
Most Homedics humidifiers come with a built-in LED light indicator that turns red to let users know that there’s a problem that needs attention.
The power indicator light on your Homedics humidifier can turn red when there’s no water in the tank.
While the clean button flashes red when the system needs to be cleaned.
Also, an incorrectly seated reservoir, water inside the unit or a poorly placed float can also cause the light on your Homedics humidifier to turn red.
Now you have an understanding of the red light, let’s look at its causes in more detail. Continue reading to find out more.
Why is my Homedics Air Purifier Blinking Red?
Before we talk about all the major reasons behind the red light on your Homedics humidifier, it’s important for you to know that Homedics has several types of humidifiers. Homedics humidifiers have:
Warm Mist Humidifiers: Warm mist humidifiers come with a heating element that converts the water in your tank to steam.
Cool Mist Humidifiers: Cool mist humidifiers on the other hand have a fan that humidifies the air by converting tank water into a cool mist.
Ultrasonic Humidifiers: While Ultrasonic humidifiers are different from the others because they use ultrasonic frequency to create mist from water.
There are also different models of the Homedics humidifier (which is a no-brainer) and the fixes you’ll find in this guide caters to all of them including:
- TotalComfort 2-in-1 humidifier
- TotalComfort UV-C ultrasonic humidifier
- TotalComfort deluxe warm and cool mist ultrasonic humidifier
- TotalComfort warm and cool mist ultrasonic humidifier
- TotalComfort portable ultrasonic humidifier
- TotalComfort portable humidifier
- TotalComfort humidifier
- TotalComfort cool mist ultrasonic humidifier
- TotalComfort personal ultrasonic humidifier
- TotalComfort plus ultrasonic humidifier
- TotalComfort ultrasonic medium-room humidifier
- Personal ultrasonic humidifier
- TotalComfort deluxe large room humidifier
- TotalComfort Adjustable Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier
- TotalComfort Deluxe ultrasonic humidifier
Now we have that preliminary information out of the way, let’s look at the reasons for the red light on your device in more detail:
1. Tank Running Low on Water
Is there a red light on your Homedics humidifier?
One of the major reasons is a low water level in your tank.
All Homedics humidifiers are water based and as such, they store the water used to generate mist in a tank.
Although they have different models and each model has a different tank capacity and run time (ie., the operating time it takes before a refill is needed) – the running or operating time is typically around 7-8 hours.
Humidifiers need water to carry out humidification and if it has run out of water (no water in the tank) the humidifier will not be able to humidify the air.
However, since the humidifier is still plugged in, it’ll continue to consume electricity and in some cases after a long while it’ll overheat the nebulizer.
Homedics manufacturers are quite aware of that and that’s why their humidifiers have a built-in feature that automatically powers down the device when the tank is empty or low on water to conserve energy and prevent any damage to the device.
But before the device shuts down, the humidifier indicates that the system needs to be refilled by turning the power indicator red.
While it’s good to always ensure that your humidifier doesn’t run out of water, overfilling the tank isn’t good either.
If the tank gets overfilled, it can cause the water sensor to malfunction. In this case, taking out some water should make the red light turn into a green light.
2. Floating Pedal is Not in Place
Homedics humidifiers come with a floating pedal or float which plays a role in maintaining the water levels.
If the float is not in place, it can trigger a light and prevent the humidifier from turning on.
This issue commonly occurs when the pedal is not properly positioned or secured after cleaning the part of the humidifier.
3. Water in the Machine
Water can be used to clean the water tank or wipe the unit itself and sometimes if we are not careful enough, we can get water into the actual unit.
Homedics humidifiers cannot operate properly if water seeps into the device.
So, when that happens, the humidifier will see it as a problem and the light will turn red.
Also, sometimes water can move out of the water reservoir and that can also trigger the red light.
However, this is a very simple problem to solve. All you have to do is tilt the machine upwards until the stuck water finds its way into the correct reservoir.
How can you tell if it’s in the right place? One indicator is that you’ll hear the water moving inside the humidifier. This tells you that the water is getting into its proper reservoir.
4. Your Humidifier Needs Cleaning
Homedics humidifiers come with a clean button light that flashes red whenever it needs to be cleaned.
Since humidifiers are usually placed in the open, it comes as no surprise that dust can accumulate on the device.
Asides the dust, the contaminants and debris in the air can also find their way into the system when the fan draws in air.
The debris and contaminants accumulate inside the humidifier and if it’s not cleaned it can affect or interfere with the normal working of your system.
In addition, if you use mineralized, tap or hard water in the tank, it can form blockages inside the humidifier.
Ideally, it’s best for you to always use distilled water or a demineralized cartridge on your Homedics humidifier when operating them.
Due to the higher levels and chances of contamination in the air, the red light gets triggered often. More especially when your system is not a humidifier and air purifier combo.
While it’s really not necessary to run an air purifier in the same room as a humidifier, it can help reduce the frequency of this problem by removing airborne contaminants before they can negatively impact the humidifier.
5. Filter Change Needed
Humidifiers have filters that need periodic replacement, similar to an air purifier. Over time, these filters can become saturated with minerals and debris.
When a Homedics filter has exceeded its life span, the red light will come on indicating it’s time for a change (this should be done every 6-8 weeks).
Replacing the old filter with a new one will remove any airflow obstruction and turn off the light.
Adhering to the recommended filter replacement schedule is key to avoiding premature red lights.
6. Nightlight Feature is On
Homedics humidifiers are malfunctional. Some models combine both the warm and cool mist types and some even come with a cool feature called the nightlight feature.
The Nightlight feature on models that support it cycle 7 different colors, but you can get it to use a fixed color by pressing the button again.
So, this means that it could cycle and get red and this time not because there’s a problem but just the nightlight showing.
7. Software/Connectivity Issues
Homedics humidifiers have electronic internal components, firmware, and wireless connectivity that can sometimes malfunction. Buggy software, faulty sensors, Wi-Fi dropouts, and other glitches may erroneously trigger the ominous red glow.
Updating firmware, resetting sensors, and troubleshooting connectivity problems should resolve any false red-light alarms stemming from technical gremlins.
How to Fix Homedics Humidifier Red Light
Tired of the menacing red glow on your Homedics humidifier? Follow these detailed step-by-step instructions to fix the red light on your device.
1. Refill the Water Tank
Refilling the water tank in your humidifier is not difficult. Infact, it’s one of the easiest fixes to carry out. To refill the water tank, follow these steps:
- Start by turning off the device and disconnecting it from its wall outlet.
- Hold the tank handle and lift it from the humidifier’s base. Then turn the tank upside down.
- Next, twist the tank cap counterclockwise and remove it.
- Now fill the tank with clean, room temperature (preferably distilled) water. Next secure the tank cap.
- Now, install the tank back in its original position on the base.
- Inspect and ensure that the tank is well-seated (you may need to wipe out the housing area before it can sit properly) before turning on the appliance.
There you have it! That’s how you fill the tank. If you filled it correctly, the light should turn green indicating that you now have enough water to produce mist.
If the light stays on after refilling it, don’t let it bother you, your humidifier just needs a reset. Reset it by holding the power button for 3-5 seconds before turning the device back on.
Alternatively, you can reset your unit by disconnecting the power cord from its power source.
Simply unplug the device from the outlet. Remove its batteries and let it rest for a few minutes before plugging it back in or putting the batteries back, in place.
It’s advisable not to overfill the tank; it’s better to stop when it reaches the mark or slightly below it. Some humidifiers tend to work when filled this way.
2. Replace Air Filter
In some Homedics humidifiers there are filters included. If you have a water tank and the red light is still on it could mean that your air filter is saturated and needs replacement.
To replace the air filter in your Homedics Humidifier start by turning off the device and unplugging it from its power source.
Then take out the water tank. Locate where the air filter is housed. Check if the filter appears discolored or clogged and if so swap it with an one.
Finally put back the water tank with water plug in your device again and turn it on. This should resolve the issue with the red light.
3. Clean the Humidifier
Sometimes it might not be the water, in your humidifier tank that’s causing issues. It’s possible that your reliable Homedics humidifier simply requires a bit of cleaning to resolve the red-light problem. Keep reading below for detailed instructions on how to clean the humidifier.
4. Fix or Replace the Water Level Sensor
If your humidifier’s water level indicator turns red due to inaccurate readings from the sensor it indicates a failure in the water level sensor.
To replace it it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional or contact the manufacturer directly.
5. Dry Off the Machine
Sometimes water may enter into the humidifier and cause problems that trigger a red light warning even if it’s clean and there is sufficient water in it.
If you think, there’s a possibility that water has entered your device and is causing the light you can resolve it by following these steps:
- Firstly, switch off your device. Disconnect it from the power outlet.
- Allow the device to dry completely before proceeding.
- Once it is completely dry, turn on your device again. This should resolve the issue with the light.
6. Update Software
Malfunctioning internal software can mistakenly activate the red alert.
To fix this issue, connect the humidifier to the Homedics app or website and install any pending firmware updates.
Updated software optimizes performance and repairs bugs that can cause false warning lights.
7. Call Homedics Support
For recurring red light issues even after troubleshooting, call Homedics customer support at (800) 466-3342. Provide your model number and specifics on the repair attempts made.
Once you do that, their technicians will be able to diagnose the issue and recommend the best solution, whether it is a reset, cleaning procedure, part replacement, or warranty repair.
How to Clean Homedics Humidifier
To ensure cleaning of your humidifier carefully follow the step, by step instructions provided below:
Step 1: Cleaning the Tank
Before cleaning the tank or any other part of your device, make sure that the unit is turned off and unplugged from its power source.
Once that’s out of the way, remove the tank from its base by lifting it from the central unit. Now unscrew the tank cap or twist it counterclockwise to remove it.
Drain the water present inside the tank and rinse it using clean water. Allow the tank to dry before reinstalling into your unit.
It’s recommended to empty and raise the tank daily to prevent the red light from popping up in future.
If you don’t have the time to rinse it daily, then you can do it weekly by using a vinegar solution – prepared with white vinegar and water in a 50/50 ratio – and allow it to sit in the tank for 20 minutes before draining it.
Rinsing the tank with vinegar solution will help in descaling any build-ups formed due to mineral deposits suspended or dissolved in the water. After draining using the vinegar solution wipe the tank clean using a dry cloth to get rid of hardened clogs.
Step 2: Clean the Ultrasonic Membrane
For Homedics ultrasonic humidifiers like the Personal Ultrasonic Humidifier, the membrane plate produces high frequency sound waves when it vibrates. The sound waves disperse water from the tank in the form of millions of tiny particles that are released into the air as cool mist.
The membrane plate in your device can get dirty and when it does, it reduces the effectiveness of your device. And just like the water tank it requires daily cleaning.
You can clean the membrane plate daily by rinsing it with clean room temperature water. However, if you will not be able to clean it daily then you can follow these steps to clean it weekly:
- First turn off the device, unplug it from its power outlet and remove the transducer plate cover.
- Soak the membrane in a white vinegar solution (water and vinegar in a 50/50 ratio) for 5 minutes.
- Next brush the membrane gently using a soft bristle brush. After brushing it, rinse the membrane with clean room temperature water.
- Allow everything to dry and once it gets dry, replace the plate cover.
Note: Do not touch the ultrasonic membrane with your bare hands as your natural skin oils can damage the membrane.
Once you are done cleaning the device, press and hold the clean transducer or ultrasonic membrane button until the clean indicator turns off.
Step 3: Clean the Float
You can clean the float hinge on your device using a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and water. Using this solution when cleaning the float removes hard or calcified deposits.
It’s often better to use a cotton bud when cleaning the float – just dip the cotton bud into the vinegar solution and apply it on the float.
Step 4: Clean the Oil Tray
Some Homedics humidifier models have an oil tray which lets users add essential oils. To clean the oil tray, turn off the device, unplug from its power outlet, open the oil tray, and remove the pad.
If you intend to use the same scent, then you should keep the pad aside and reuse it after cleaning but if you’d like to use a new scent then you can replace the pad after cleaning.
After removing the pad, wipe down the inside of the oil tray using a soft cloth. Once you are done, replace the essential oil pad back into the tray and close the unit.
Step 5: Clean the Exterior
The external body of your humidifier can accumulate dust, so it’s important to clean it as well. Cleaning the external body is easy. To remove the accumulated dust simply use a cloth to wipe it off.
Step 6: Reset the “Clean” Reminder
At times after cleaning the entire device the red light may not turn green. In such cases you might need to reset the reminder.
To do this. Hold the reset button for a second (usually 3-5 seconds depending on your model) until the light turns off.
Different models have ways of resetting the device. Some may even have a power dial, with a reset function. It’s always advisable to consult your user manual for instructions on how to reset your device.
Final Thoughts
When that menacing red light appears on your trusted Homedics humidifier, take a deep breath and relax.
The glow on your Homedics humidifier simply indicates your hardworking unit needs a bit of easy maintenance.
With some basic troubleshooting, you can quickly diagnose the cause and banish the bothersome beam.
Just replenish water, swap a filter, update software or reset sensors to restore optimal performance.
Implementing diligent preventive care is key as well. Change filters regularly, clean thoroughly, fill with purified water and reset periodically to avoid issues.
Remember occasional maintenance is a small price to pay for years of healthy humidity from your Homedics companion.
While frustrating in the moment, remember the red light is an aide, not an enemy. By providing helpful alerts when attention is needed, it helps keep your humidifier running smoothly long-term.
Related Article: Homedics Humidifier Not Working
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.
