How Much Does a Whole-House Humidifier Cost in 2025?
Installing a whole-house humidifier costs an average of $578
On average, a whole-house humidifier costs between $392 and $765 with a national average of $578.
Simple units can cost as little as $175 while high-end or complex models can reach as high as $1,350.
Costs vary depending on humidifier type, power source, maintenance costs, and labor.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Installing a whole-house humidifier costs an average of $578, with average prices ranging from $392 to $765. The total cost depends on factors like your home's size, the type of humidifier you choose, labor rates, and installation time. Hiring a trusted HVAC pro helps ensure the unit runs efficiently and maintains the right indoor humidity from day one.
Whole-House Humidifier Cost Factors
How much you’ll pay to install a whole-house humidifier depends on a variety of factors. Here’s a closer look at how your costs break down.
Whole House Humidifier Costs by Type
Whole-house humidifiers cost between $100 and $1,100 for the unit alone, and installation costs vary based on the type you choose. The three main types are flow-through, drum, and steam humidifiers. Drum models are the most affordable, flow-through systems are mid-range, and steam humidifiers are on the higher end. Spray-mist models are rarer, but they’re on the lower end of the price range.
Tabletop humidifiers simply plug into the wall and don’t require a professional installation service. They’re suitable for a single room, not an entire home, so they’re not considered whole-house humidifiers.
| Humidifier Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Drum (bypass) | $100–$300 |
| Flow-through | $200–$600 |
| Steam-powered | $300–$1,100 |
Drum
The most affordable type, drum humidifiers cost between $100 and $300. The system involves a belt, motor, and reservoir of water. The motor spins a padded wheel so that the water lifts and evaporates. They can be either bypass or powered. They do carry a higher risk of mold growth and require frequent maintenance.
Humidifier maintenance can increase the total central humidifier cost. For instance, you can invest in a whole-home air cleaner for an average of $2,610 to help keep your humidifier clean and free from mold.
Flow-Through
Flow-through units cost between $200 and $600. These units use water to flow through an evaporator pad and create humidity. Water is released when a valve opens and flows through a pad, and then drains. Because of this, these units waste more water. The furnace heat cycle triggers the valve. These units may be bypass or fan-powered, which we explain below.
Steam Humidifier Cost
Steam humidifiers cost between $300 and $1,100. They heat water to create steam that disperses through your home's ductwork. While they have higher upfront and operating costs ($150 to $500 per year), steam humidifiers provide consistent humidity levels. Some models run independently of the heating cycle, which adds flexibility but can raise the risk of rust or mold.
Bypass vs. Fan-Powered Systems
Bypass units rely on furnace heat, so they avoid the cost of a standalone motor and can trim $100 to $300 off the price. They’re best for smaller homes because they provide less airflow.
Bypass
These systems are often the least expensive and easiest to install. They need a duct attachment so that the air from the furnace can heat and evaporate water. The trade-off is more maintenance, and they often struggle to raise humidity in larger homes.
Fan-Powered
Fan-powered systems work similarly to bypass systems, only they have an internal blower, so they don't have to rely on the heat cycle and a bypass duct to work. This means they can generate more power, making them suitable for homes with more square footage. Expect to pay more, especially for units with larger motors.
Additional Humidifier Price Factors
When budgeting for your humidifier, consider these additional factors that can affect the total cost.
Humidity Gauge (Hygrometer)
A humidity gauge costs between $10 to $70. A gauge helps you confirm humidity levels so you don’t over-moisturize the space—saving you from potential moisture damage down the road.
Humidistat (Hygrostat)
A humidistat costs between $30 to $150, with manual humidistats on the lower end of the price range and automatic or smart humidistat versions on the higher end. This device automatically checks the humidity levels in your home. Unlike hygrometers, humidistats adjust the humidity levels for you.
For units without a built-in humidistat, consider adding one. Pairing it with a separate hygrometer lets you verify humidity levels in rooms farther from the unit for greater accuracy.
Humidifier Annual Maintenance
The national average to repair a whole-house humidifier is $230. Units that connect to ductwork and humidify the whole home can cost up to $500 to repair.
If your HVAC technician finds mold, they will recommend that you test it and have it removed. Mold testing costs an average of $600. To prevent mold growth in the first place, have your ducts cleaned regularly. The price of duct cleaning is $400.
Evaporative Pads
Drum and flow-through models rely on evaporative pads: water collects on the pad, heats up, and then evaporates into the ductwork. Replacing these pads costs between $10 and $50, including installation. Spray-mist models don't use evaporative pads.
Location and Accessibility
Where your HVAC system is located can affect your choice of humidifier and the complexity of installation. If it's in a basement, there's plenty of space and easy access. In a closet or attic, space is limited, and installation may take longer. To understand how your system's location impacts cost and options, consult a local HVAC professional.
Budgeting for a Whole-House Humidifier
Consider these cost-saving strategies to make your whole-house humidifier installation more budget-friendly:
Book your installation service during HVAC pros’ off-season when labor costs may be lower.
Work with your contractor to choose the smallest-sized unit for your needs, rather than paying more for a larger unit.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC companies to ensure competitive pricing.
Stay on top of regular HVAC maintenance to avoid costly repairs.
DIY vs. Hiring an HVAC Pro
DIY installation could save up to $400, but itdemands solid HVAC, plumbing, and electrical know-how. Errors can spike energy bills, reduce performance, or damage the HVAC system—repairs that cost far more than professional labor.
An experienced HVAC professional will also help you select the best unit for your home size, humidity levels, and budget, ensuring efficient operation and preventing future issues. Connect with a local humidifier installation professional for a safe, efficient installation.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. We surveyed over 30,000 real customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Unless you have advanced HVAC, plumbing, and electrical skills, hiring a pro is worth the investment. Improper installation can strain or even damage the furnace, leading to repairs that dwarf the cost of professional labor. Certified installers deliver a precise, code-compliant setup and help the system run efficiently for years.
Your whole-house humidifier choice comes down to budget and upkeep. Drum models cost less but demand frequent pad changes and vigilant cleaning to avoid mold. Flow-through units carry a higher price tag yet need less maintenance because water drains away rather than sitting in a reservoir. Decide how much ongoing work you’re comfortable handling before you buy.
Whole-house humidifier repairs average $230 but can reach $500, based on unit type, repair complexity, and local labor rates. Systems tied into extensive ductwork or large homes tend to cost more to fix. Routine maintenance, like the occasional pad change, cleaning, and inspection, helps you avoid those higher repair bills and keeps the humidifier working longer.
If indoor humidity regularly falls below 30%, a whole-house humidifier is a smart upgrade. Dry air aggravates allergies, chapped skin, and static, while ENERGY STAR recommends 30% to 50% year-round (30% to 40% in cold climates to curb condensation). If levels climb above that range, consider a whole-house dehumidifier instead.
A well-maintained whole-house humidifier lasts for 10 to 15 years. If yours is pushing a decade and performance drops or energy use climbs, start planning for a replacement. Upgrading boosts efficiency and indoor comfort, and an HVAC pro can confirm whether repairs or a new unit make better financial sense.
A whole-house humidifier is installed directly into your HVAC system and positioned near the furnace or air handler to maximize performance. It connects securely to both the ductwork and plumbing systems, ensuring complete integration. Hiring a professional guarantees a safe, efficient, and permanent installation that protects your system from future operational issues.
