Knowledge

Why tank size does not equal runtime

Capacity and output describe different parts of ownership.

Why tank size does not equal runtime
Nenad Stojković / Shixart1985 · Humidifier photograph Photo credits · CC BY

Separate the measurements

Tank capacity is an amount of water. Output is a rate. Dividing capacity by a constant output provides a theoretical runtime; it does not model every operating mode.

Record your own pattern

Start with a known fill amount, record the selected output and note when the device cycles off. Avoid counting a spill or tank rinse as water used for humidification.

Compare like with like

Use the same units and settings when comparing products. Maximum runtime often reflects a low-output setting, while a quoted maximum output may describe a very different operating condition.

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