Humidifier selection/install questions

[jrseven]

I am looking to install a humidifier in my home.
My home is 3,000 sq. ft. and was built in 2004.

1) What size of humidifier should I purchase, small (12-16gpd)or large (18gpd)?

2) Should I purchase a fan powered unit or bypass unit, currently, the home has Carrier furnace model 58STA & Carrier central air unit model 38CKC

3) Regarding installation, should the humidifier be mounted on the return-side or the supply-side?

4) Is installation relatively easy for a do-it-yourselfer?

[Jay11J]

Originally Posted by jrseven

1) What size of humidifier should I purchase, small (12-16gpd)or large (18gpd)?

With that new of a home, i'd say the 12-16 gpd should be enough.

2) Should I purchase a fan powered unit or bypass unit,

I perfer the bypass unit, less things to go wrong.

3) Regarding installation, should the humidifier be mounted on the return-side or the supply-side?

Bypass unit is best on return side, if you don't have room on the return side, and have room on the supply you can do that.

4) Is installation relatively easy for a do-it-yourselfer?

Guess on how good you are.. It can be easy if you are good with working and cutting metal.

Wire should be easy for your furnace since it has 24v hook up for the humidifier.

[jrseven]

Thanks for the response, Jay

Now, for the million dollar question: where can I get one online? The only website that I've come so far is GoGeisel.com

Also, I was thinking about sticking with Carrier branded product, are Carrier humidifiers reliable or should I look at others such as Aprilaire, Honeywell, etc...

Thanks in advance

[Jay11J]

Carrier is just a rebranded Aprilaire humidifier, and paying more for the Carrier name stuck on the cover.

They are all the same. I never came across any issues with any brands. I have the Honeywell, my parents got the Aprilaire/Trane.. You can get the Honeywell at Home Depot or other Home Centers.

[jrseven]

Would I have any issues connecting a Carrier Thermidistat control to an Aprilaire 500A or Honeywell HE220 and a Carrier 58STA furnace?

[Jay11J]

Nope. Anything will work.