Automatic Humidifiers

Owner’s Manual
For Models 400, 550, 600 & 700

Includes Safety & Operating Instructions

and Warranty Information

READ AND SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Principle of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Operating Instructions – Model 400, 600 & 700
• Automatic Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
• Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Operating Instructions – Model 550 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Effect of Water Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Annual Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Annual Summer Shutdown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Periodic Preventative Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
Model 400 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Model 600 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Model 700 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Model 550 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Limited Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

120 volts may cause injury from electrical shock.

WARNING Disconnect power and shut off water supply before servicing.

Sudden operation may cause personal injury or property damage. Turn the
CAUTION Aprilaire Humidifier Control to “OFF” or lowest setting before servicing.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for your recent Aprilaire Humidifier purchase. We appreciate your
®

business. You have invested in the highest quality equipment available.

Aprilaire manufacturers whole-house indoor air quality products and is a
recognized leader in the heating and air conditioning industry.
Your unit will require periodic maintenance to assure continued fine
performance. See page 8 to obtain service parts and/or replacement Water
Panel evaporators.
®

This booklet will familiarize you with the benefits you will receive from the
equipment you just purchased and help you understand the routine
maintenance required. Be sure to register your Humidifier warranty online at:
www.aprilaire.com/warranty.
Genuine Aprilaire Replacement Water
Panel evaporators are available from your
®

installing contractor or from most other

heating and air conditioning contractors in
your area. Use the dealer locator in our
web site (www.aprilaire.com) or look in
the Yellow Pages under Humidifying
Apparatus or Heating & Air Conditioning
Contractors. Purchase only genuine
Aprilaire Water Panels to maintain peak
performance.
 I.TABLE
PRINCIPLE
OF CONTENTS
OF OPERATION
With your purchase of a humidification system, you have invested in a
humidifier that operates on the evaporative principle – nature’s own way
of adding moisture – providing proper relative humidity throughout the
heating season. It is very possible that you have questions concerning
your new humidifier – questions on what it can do for you, and what you
should do to receive maximum benefits from it. This booklet is intended to
provide the answers you need.
Nature, in producing an invigorating comfortable April day, combines just
the right temperature and the right amount of moisture. Aprilaire
Humidifiers employ the same principle, with refinements, to give you the
optimum relative humidity for maximum allowable comfort all winter long.
The important considerations in the evaluation of a humidifier are precise
control, sufficient capacity, trouble-free performance and minimum
maintenance. The operating principle of your Aprilaire humidifier provides
all of these advantages. Here, briefly, is the method:
The Aprilaire Humidifier is installed to operate in conjunction with the
furnace blower. When the Aprilaire Humidifier Control calls for humidity
and the blower is operating, water flows to the distribution tray located at
the top of the unit. The water is uniformly distributed across the width of
the tray and through a scientifically designed system of outlets. It flows
by gravity over the Water Panel evaporator, the heart of the unit. Dry, hot
®

air is moved through the moisture-laden Water Panel evaporator where

natural evaporation takes place. The now humidified air carrying moisture
in vapor form (nature’s own way) is circulated throughout the home.
The correct water flow is determined by an orifice equipped with
each drain type unit. When the unit is operating, there will be a small,
steady stream of water to drain, which flushes away most of the
trouble-causing minerals. Do not use the saddle valve to regulate the
water flow. It is designed to be completely opened or closed. The minerals
and solid residue not trapped by the replaceable Water Panel evaporator are
flushed down the drain in the Models 550, 600 and 700. This is the most
effective and least expensive method to dispose of trouble-causing minerals.
The drain also eliminates the problems caused by stagnant water.
There are some homes where drain facilities are not accessible or
available. For these situations, or where high water hardness is not a
problem, the newest Aprilaire, Model 400, is designed to satisfy these
applications.

-1-
Capacity is high because an average-size home (10,000 cu. ft.) requires
the addition of approximately 9 gallons of water per day to maintain 35%
relative humidity when the outside temperature is 20°. The smallest
Aprilaire Humidifier under most operating conditions, has this humidifying
capacity. Trouble-free performance and minimum maintenance are
assured by the design features of the Aprilaire Humidifier. All unit
housing parts that come in contact with water are non-metal and will
never rust or corrode. Neither heat nor water will affect them under
normal operating conditions.
The Water Panel evaporator, designed especially for uniform, high
®

evaporation, and the Scale Control Insert efficiently traps mineral deposits
which are often the cause of damage to working parts in ordinary
humidifiers. No “white dust” can be distributed throughout the living
quarters. The Water Panel evaporator is the heart of the unit and must be
in good condition to assure high capacity trouble-free performance. It
should be changed once a year with the exception of the Model 400
which should be changed twice a heating season.
Older design water distribution trays have a granular coating in the
bottom of the distribution tray to provide even water flow to each of the
openings and over the Water Panel evaporator. Do not clean the
mineral scale off the bottom of the water distribution tray at the
end of the humidification season. If the granular coating is removed, it
is not necessary to purchase a new distribution tray, simply apply a small
amount of liquid dishwashing soap over the entire inside surface of the
water distribution tray. This will allow the water to flow evenly to the
water panel, provided the unit is level in order to achieve maximum
capacity.
The current distribution tray incorporates a synthetic fabric liner that
replaces the granular coating and is designed to deliver water uniformly
over the entire top surface of the Water Panel evaporator. It is normal for
some mineral deposits to form in the distribution tray as it dries out
between humidification cycles. These deposits can actually help distribute
water in the tray, but if they block the openings, they should be removed
as described in the “Periodic Preventative Maintenance” section of this
manual.
There are many humidifiers on the market. They all add moisture… with
varying degrees of efficiency. None, however, can provide the features,
design, and performance incorporated into your Aprilaire Humidifier.

-2-
 TABLE
II. OPERATING
OF CONTENTS
INSTRUCTIONS – 400, 600 & 700
There are 2 possible modes of operation of your Aprilaire Humidifier
Control – Automatic and Manual. An explanation of both modes follows:
Automatic Mode: (Manual Mode-see pg 5)
Your Aprilaire Humidifier Control is installed in the cold air return duct.
During the first heating season, your Humidifier Control needs to be set
initially to match your home’s condition. Please follow these steps when
adjusting your control (refer to Figure A).
1. Turn the dial setting knob to “5,” which is within the normal range.
During the next 24-48 hours it may be necessary to adjust the dial for
more or less humidity, depending on your personal comfort and home’s
requirements. Refer to the “Operation Guide” (Table 1).
2. During the coldest portion of the first heating season, minor adjustments
may be necessary. This is dependent upon your home’s construction.
Refer to the “Operation Guide” (Table 1).

TABLE 1 – Operation Guide

Condition Solution
Condensation on windows Reduce the setting on the control dial
by 1 increment.
Lack of humidity Increase the setting on the control dial
by 1 increment.
Humidifier does not operate Turn dial to “Test/Reset.” Make certain
furnace is operating in heat mode.
If unit still doesn’t operate, contact your
heating contractor.
Humidifier won’t shut off Turn dial to “Off.” If unit continues to
operate, contact your heating
contractor.
Test mode System operation is checked by setting
the knob to “Test/Reset.” Make certain
furnace blower is operating and furnace
is calling for heat. Humidifier will
operate for one minute. Be sure to turn
the control knob back to the prior setting
after checking humidifier operation.
Reset Water Panel change Turn the control knob to the
indicator “Test/Reset” position until the “Change
Water Panel” light blinks to reset the
water panel change indicator timer.
(Blower must be operating and furnace
calling for heat.) Be sure to turn the
control knob back to the prior setting
after resetting the timer.

-3-
The relative humidity in your home FIGURE A
will now be accurately controlled to
meet your needs and should not 7
6

L
MA
need further adjustment during T
RE ES
S
5

NOR

T/ T
future heating seasons. Make note

E
of the dial setting in the event you
temporarily move the knob when 4
performing annual maintenance of
your Aprilaire Humidifier. 3

F
F
O
2
1
AUTOMATIC MODE

Your Aprilaire Automatic Humidifier, is a high precision system that will

accurately maintain the relative humidity in your home to a maximum of
45% RH and a minimum of 10% RH. For every 1° change in outdoor
temperature, the control will automatically adjust the indoor relative
humidity (RH) by 1/2%. If you would like to determine the RH in your
home, follow these steps:
1. Determine the outdoor temperature.
2. Activate the furnace blower by setting your thermostat to a higher
temperature.
3. Turn the humidifier control dial setting to the “Off” position. Then, slowly
turn the dial clockwise until you hear the solenoid valve on the humidifier
“click on.” Next, slowly turn the dial counter clockwise until you hear the
solenoid valve “click off”. At this point, make note of the dial setting.
4. Locate your dial setting on Table 2. Follow the dial setting to the right
until it intersects with the current outdoor temperature. This is the
relative humidity in your home under existing conditions.
5. Return the thermostat and the Humidifier Control to their original
settings.
The values of outdoor temperature and dial settings may fall in between
or outside of the listed values in Table 2. In these cases, you can only
approximate your home’s actual indoor RH.

-4-
 TABLE 2 – % Relative Humidity Guide

Outdoor Temperature (°F)

-10 0 10 20 30 40
1 10 10 10 15 20 25
2 10 10 15 20 25 30
3 10 15 20 25 30 35
Dial Setting

4 15 20 25 30 35 40
5 20 25 30 35 40 45
6 25 30 35 40 45 45
7 30 35 40 45 45 45
As an example, if the outdoor temperature is 20°F, and, following step 3,
the humidifier turns off at “5” on the dial range, then the RH in your home is 35%.

Manual Mode: (Automatic Mode – see pg 3)

Your Aprilaire Humidifier Control is installed in the cold air return. It is
important to anticipate a drop in outdoor temperature and reduce the setting
accordingly to avoid excessive condensation. For example, with an outdoor
temperature of 20° the correct setting will be 35% relative humidity. If the
temperature is expected to fall to 0° that evening, then merely reduce the
setting to 25% several hours prior to the temperature change.
The recommended settings on the Humidifier Control are based on years
of research and experience (see Table 3). These settings represent a
compromise between RH levels that would be most desirable for comfort
reasons and humidity levels that are suitable for protection of your home
and to avoid condensation on your windows. For example, a wintertime
indoor RH of 50% may be considered ideal, but unfortunately, it probably
would result in damage to your home. Observance of the recommended
RH levels on your Humidifier Control, therefore, is an important safeguard.
Condensation of water on inside windows in the form of fogging or frost
is usually an indication of too much relative humidity. This same
condensation can take place in other areas in your home with the
possibility of damage resulting.

-5-
 TABLE 3 – Outdoor-Indoor Relative Humidity
Outside Temperature Recommended RH
+40°F 45%
+30°F 40%
+20°F 35%
+10°F 30%
0°F 25%
–10°F 20%
–20°F 15%

Your Aprilaire Humidifier Control FIGURE B

is a precision instrument that can
4 0°F
be used to determine the RH
45%
accurately in your home during
2 0 RE

T
RE ES
°F
U

the winter. S

T/ T
OR TEMPERAT

35%

E
HUMIDIT Y

To do this, follow these steps:

1. Activate the furnace blower by
%

setting your thermostat to a

25
DO
F

F
%
0°

F
higher temperature.
T

O
OU

2. Turn the control dial setting to 15 %

the “Off” position. Then, slowly MANUAL MODE

turn the dial clockwise until you
hear the solenoid valve on the humidifier “click on.” Next, slowly turn the
dial counter clockwise until you hear the solenoid valve “click off.” At this
point, read the RH on the dial. This will be very close to the actual RH
in your home. (See Figure B)
To check the humidifier operation, set the knob to “Test/Reset”, make
sure that the water saddle valve is open and that there is electricity to the
unit. The furnace blower motor must be operating and the furnace calling
for heat for the Aprilaire Humidifier to function. Note: Turning the knob to
“Test/Reset” resets the “Change Water Panel” internal timer. After the
humidifier has operated for one minute and water is entering the unit and
coming out at the drain, reduce the humidistat setting to the
recommended inside relative humidity, depending on the outside
temperature. DO NOT LEAVE IN TEST MODE AS HUMIDIFIER WILL NOT
OPERATE. Follow the suggested settings prior to a drop in the outside
temperature.

-6-
 TABLE
III. OPERATING
OF CONTENTS
INSTRUCTIONS – 550
Your new Aprilaire Humidifier is controlled by a manual humidistat
installed either in the living area or in the cold air return. It is important to
anticipate a drop in temperature and reduce the setting accordingly to
avoid excessive condensation. For example, with an outside temperature
of 20° the correct setting will be 35% relative humidity. If the
temperature is expected to fall to 0° that evening, then merely reduce the
setting to 25% several hours prior to the temperature change.

TABLE
IV. ADDITIONAL
OF CONTENTS
INFORMATION FOR ALL MODELS
Be sure to keep fireplace dampers closed when not in use. They provide
an excellent escape route for heat, as well as humidity.
On occasion, indoor moisture producing activities such as clothes drying,
cooking, showers, etc., may raise the relative humidity level higher than it
should be, even though the Aprilaire Humidifier is not operating. Telltale
indications, again, are condensation or frost on cold surfaces such as
windows, doors, walls, etc. If such condensation persists for several
hours, your home should be ventilated to dissipate the potential damaging
excess moisture levels.

TABLE
V. EFFECT
OF OF
CONTENTS
WATER CHARACTERISTICS
Your humidifier will operate effectively using either hot, cold, hard or
mechanically softened water. Whether to use available tap water, even
though it may be quite hard, or chemically softened water, is a common
question of homeowners when installing a humidifier.
Water used in homes contains varying amounts of minerals. The residue
remaining as a result of hard water evaporation is primarily calcium and
magnesium components and is usually quite hard, scaly, and dense.
Residue from softened water tends to be soft and fluffy and has a greater
volume than hard water scale. In either case, the service life of a Water Panel
evaporator will be virtually the same. The Water Panel evaporator should be
changed once a year with the exception of the Model 400 which should be
changed twice a heating season. In the drain-equipped models, most of
these solids are effectively controlled by flushing them down the drain.

-7-
Service hot water, 140° maximum, is recommended with drain type units for
increasing capacity and for heat pump applications.

TABLE
VI. ANNUAL
OF CONTENTS
MAINTENANCE
For best performance, we recommend that you replace the Water Panel
evaporator in your Aprilaire Humidifier annually with the exception of
Model 400 which should be changed twice a season. If you have a
Humidifier Control equipped with a “Change Water Panel” indicator light, it will
be lit (during operation only) when it is time to change your Water Panel. See
individual model instructions for additional maintenance.
To purchase a new Water Panel:
• Call the installer of your Aprilaire Humidifier. This information is often
found on your equipment.
• Call your heating and air conditioning dealer.
• Use our “Dealer Locator” at: www.aprilaire.com
• Look in the Yellow Pages under Humidifying Apparatus or
Heating & Air Conditioner Contractors.
• If none of the above is successful and you still need information, please
feel free to write us.
• Purchase only Genuine Aprilaire Water Panels to maintain performance.
If your humidifier is equipped with an automatic control, after replacing the Water
Panel, turn the control knob to the “Test/Reset” position until the “Change Water
Panel” light blinks to reset the Water Panel change indicator timer. (Blower must
be operating and furnace calling for heat.) Be sure to turn the control knob back to
it’s original setting.

TABLE
VII. ANNUAL
OF CONTENTS
SUMMER SHUTDOWN
1. For Models 400, 550, and 600 close the bypass damper, which is a part
of the unit, with the use of the small damper handle. For older Model
550s without a built in damper, closer the bypass which is installed in
the bypass pipe.
2. Shut off the water supply to the humidifier by closing the saddle valve.
Humidifier Control:
There is no adjustment to the Humidifier Control required for summer
shutdown. (Applies to both Automatic and Manual Mode.)

-8-
 TABLE
VIII. PERIODIC
OF CONTENTS
PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
NOTE: Periodic inspection and preventative maintenance of your total
heating system is important for efficient and safe operation. Your heating
contractor should include humidifier service at the same time.
All models are equipped with an in-line water strainer and orifice as
shown below. These parts should be inspected and cleaned periodically to
assure continued proper unit performance.

INSPECTION AND SERVICE INSTRUCTIONS

1. Disconnect electrical power
WATER FEED to the furnace and shut off water
TUBE
supply.
OUTLET
COMPRESSION 2. Disconnect the water line at the
NUT inlet compression nut.
3. Remove the in-line strainer from
inside the inlet side of the valve
ORIFICE
by using a small
nail or wire.
SOLENOID
VALVE 4. Flush the in-line strainer
clean or replace with a new
strainer, Service Department, Part
INLET
No. 4004.

IN-LINE
5. Reconnect the inlet water line.
STRAINER (Double Wrench To Prevent
INLET
Leaking.)
COMPRESSION
NUT
6. Disconnect the water feed tube
at the outlet compression nut.
7. Inspect the water feed tube by
gently flexing it and looking for
cracks or signs of wear. Replace
tube if it is cracked, brittle, or
has been damaged.
8. Remove the orifice from the copper or plastic water feed tube and make
sure this small opening is unplugged.
9. Replace the orifice and reconnect the water feed tube.
(Double Wrench To Prevent Leaking.)
10. Remove the drain hose from the bottom of the unit and flex it to loosen
any mineral deposits or blockage. Then flush it with water under
pressure and slip it back onto the drain fitting. Make sure the drain hose
has a constant downward slope and is not flattened or blocked.
11. Turn on water supply and reconnect electrical power to
the furnace.

-9-
 MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS FOR
APRILAIRE HUMIDIFIER MODEL 400
MODEL 400

CAUTION! Sudden operation may cause personal injury or

property damage. Turn Humidifier Control to “off” or
lowest setting before servicing.
1. Front Cover
2. Feed Tube
3. Integral Bypass Damper
4. Water Panel Evaporator
Assembly
5. Distribution Tray
6. “V” Notches
7. Water Panel
8. Scale Control Insert/Float
Chamber
9. Overflow Hose
10. Float Cover
11. Float MODEL
12. Water Level Sensor Assembly 400

1. Note Humidifier Control setting and turn dial to the “Off” position.
2. Turn off water supply. Turn the integral bypass damper (3) to the SUMMER position.
3. Press the tabs in the latches on the top and bottom of front cover (1) and pull cover off base with both
hands.
4. Carefully pull the plastic feed tube (2) out of the distribution tray (5) at the top of the Water Panel
evaporator assembly (4). Tip the Water Panel evaporator assembly forward and lift it out of the
humidifier. Do not tip the Water Panel evaporator assembly more than needed to clear the housing to
avoid over-bending the water level sensor assembly (12).
5. Unsnap the distribution tray (5) from the scale control insert (8). Follow the instructions below
depending upon the type of distribution tray in your humidifier:
For trays with a synthetic fabric liner: Lightly scrape out or brush off any mineral deposits, being
careful not to stretch or loosen the synthetic fabric liner. Soaking the tray in vinegar or a lime-
removing agent is helpful when trying to remove stubborn mineral deposits.
For trays with granular coating: Do not scrape off the granular coating, but lightly scrape out any
mineral deposits and clean the “V” notches (6). This textured surface helps ensure even water flow
for maximum performance. See page 3 if removed.
6. Slide the used water panel (7) out of the scale control insert/float chamber and dispose of the water
panel.
7. Remove the float cover (10) and inspect the floats (11) and float chamber for mineral build-up. Remove
deposits as needed from floats, float chamber and scale control insert. Wash the parts with a
disinfecting cleaner. Reassemble the floats and float cover. Make sure stems of both floats extend
through openings in float cover and that floats move freely up and down.
8. Inspect the plastic feed tube (2) by gently flexing it and looking for cracks or signs of wear. Replace
tube if it is cracked, brittle, or has been damaged.
9. Slide a new Aprilaire No. 45 water panel (7) into the scale control insert/float chamber (8). Snap the
distribution tray (5) back on the scale control insert (8).
10. Re-install the Water Panel evaporator assembly (4) into the humidifier. Take care not to over-bend the
water level sensor assembly. Push the top of the Water Panel evaporator assembly firmly back until it
snaps into place.
11. Push the end of the feed tube back firmly into the distribution tray. Replace the front cover.
12. Remove the overflow hose (9) from the bottom of the unit and flex it to loosen any mineral deposits or
blockage. Then flush with water under pressure and slip it back onto the drain fitting. Make sure the
drain hose has a constant downward slope and is not flattened or blocked.
13. Turn on the water supply. Return integral bypass damper to appropriate position.
14. Check system operation:
Humidifier Control: (Automatic or Manual) Check system operation and reset change water panel
indicator by setting the knob to “Test/Reset”. With furnace blower operating and furnace calling for
heat, humidifier will operate for one minute. DO NOT LEAVE IN TEST MODE AS HUMIDIFIER WILL
NOT OPERATE.
15. Reset Humidifier Control to its original position.
- 10 -
MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS FOR
APRILAIRE HUMIDIFIER MODEL 600

MODEL 600
CAUTION! Sudden operation may cause personal injury or
property damage. Turn Humidifier Control to “off” or
lowest setting before servicing.

1. Front Cover
2. Feed Tube
3. Integral Bypass
Damper
4. Water Panel
Evaporator
Assembly
5. Distribution Tray
6. “V” Notches
7. Water Panel
8. Scale Control
Insert
9. Drain Hose

1. Note Humidifier Control setting and turn dial to the “OFF” position.
2. Turn off water supply. Turn the integral bypass damper (3) to the SUMMER position.
3. Press the tabs in the latches on the top and bottom of front cover (1) and pull cover off base
with both hands. Set aside.
4. Carefully pull the plastic feed tube (2) out of the distribution tray (5) at the top of the Water
Panel evaporator assembly (4). Pull this assembly out by grasping at top and tipping out.
5. Unsnap the distribution tray (5) from the scale control insert (8). Follow the instructions below
depending upon the type of distribution tray in your humidifier:
For trays with a synthetic fabric liner: Lightly scrape out or brush off any mineral deposits, being
careful not to stretch or loosen the synthetic fabric liner. Soaking the tray in vinegar or a lime-
removing agent is helpful when trying to remove stubborn mineral deposits.
For trays with granular coating: Do not scrape off the granular coating, but lightly scrape out
any mineral deposits and clean the “V” notches (6). This textured surface helps ensure even
water flow for maximum performance. See page 3 if removed.
6. Slide the Water Panel evaporator (7) out from the Scale Control Insert (8). Clean the insert
frame of calcium deposits. Replace the Water Panel evaporator (Stock No. 35) and with a new
Genuine Aprilaire Water Panel. Slide the Water Panel back into the scale control insert with the
colored spot up and snap the distribution tray back into place.
7. Inspect the plastic feed tube (2) by gently flexing it and looking for cracks or signs of wear.
Replace tube if it is cracked, brittle, or has been damaged.
8. Re-install the Water Panel evaporator assembly (4) into the unit by fitting its drain into the round
receptacle at the base of the unit. Push the assembly in at the top against the beveled tabs that
will hold it in place. Push the end of the feed tube back firmly into the distribution tray and
replace the front cover.
9. Remove the drain hose (9) from the bottom of the unit and flex it to loosen any mineral deposits
or blockage. Then flush it with water under pressure and slip it back onto the drain fitting. Make
sure the drain hose has a constant downward slope and is not flattened or blocked.
10. Turn on the water supply. Return integral bypass damper to appropriate position.
11. Check system operation:
Humidifier Control: (Automatic or Manual) Check system operation and reset change water
panel indicator by setting the knob to “Test/Reset”. With furnace blower operating and furnace
calling for heat, humidifier will operate for one minute. DO NOT LEAVE IN TEST MODE AS
HUMIDIFIER WILL NOT OPERATE.
12. Set Humidifier Control to its original position.

- 11 -
 MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS FOR
APRILAIRE HUMIDIFIER MODEL 700
MODEL 700

WARNING! 120 volts may cause serious injury from electrical shock.
Disconnect power and shut off water supply before servicing.

5
2
1. Front Cover Assembly 3 4
2. Base
3. Water Panel
1 6
Evaporator Assembly
4. Distribution Tray
7
5. ”V” Notches
6. Water Panel
7. Scale Control Insert
8. Drain Hose
9. Power Cord

8
9

1. Note Humidifier Control setting and turn dial to the “OFF” position.
2. Disconnect electrical power and turn off water supply.
3. Unlatch humidifier front cover assembly (1) from base assembly (2) at the bottom of the cover, lift, and
set aside.
4. Pull out the water panel evaporator assembly (3) by grasping at the top and tipping out.
5. Unsnap the distribution tray (4) from the scale control insert (7). Follow the instructions below
depending upon the type of distribution tray in your humidifier:
For trays with a synthetic fabric liner: Lightly scrape out or brush off any mineral deposits, being
careful not to stretch or loosen the synthetic fabric liner. Soaking the tray in vinegar or a lime-
removing agent is helpful when trying to remove stubborn mineral deposits.
For trays with granular coating: Do not scrape off the granular coating, but lightly scrape out any
mineral deposits and clean the “V” notches (5). This textured surface helps ensure even water flow
for maximum performance. See page 3 if removed.
6. Slide the Water Panel evaporator (6) out from the Scale Control Insert (7). Clean the Scale Control
Insert by twisting and flexing it to loosen the calcium deposits. Replace the Water Panel evaporator
(Stock No. 35) and with a new Genuine Aprilaire Water Panel. Slide the Water Panel evaporator back
into the scale control insert with the colored spot up and snap the distribution tray (4) back into place.
7. Inspect the plastic feed tube by gently flexing it and looking for cracks or signs of wear. Replace tube
if it is cracked, brittle, or has been damaged.
8. Re-install the Water Panel evaporator assembly (3) into the base assembly (2). Push it in at the top
between the retaining ribs that hold the assembly in place in a vertical position.
9. Remove the drain hose (8) from the bottom of the unit and flex it to loosen any mineral deposits or
blockage. Then flush it with water under pressure and slip it back onto the drain fitting. Make sure the
drain hose has a constant downward slope and is not flattened or blocked.
10. Re-install front cover assembly (1) by hooking at the top of the base assembly (2) and latching at the
bottom.
11. Reconnect electrical power (9) and turn on the water supply.
12. Check system operation:
Humidifier Control: (Automatic or Manual) Check system operation and reset change water panel
indicator by setting the knob to “Test/Reset”. With furnace blower operating and furnace calling for
heat, humidifier will operate for one minute. DO NOT LEAVE IN TEST MODE AS HUMIDIFIER WILL
NOT OPERATE.
13. Set Humidifier Control to its original position.
NOTE: The motor is permanently lubricated and does not need to be oiled.

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MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS FOR
APRILAIRE HUMIDIFIER MODEL 550

MODEL 550
CAUTION! Sudden operation may cause personal injury or
property damage. Turn Humidistat to “off” or lowest setting
before servicing.
3 5
6 4
1 10 8
1. Front Cover
2. Feed Tube
3. Nozzle
7 4. Water Panel
Evaporator Assembly
5. Distribution Tray
6. ”V” Notches
7. Water Panel
8. Scale Control Insert
2 9 9. Drain Hose
10. Integral Bypass
Damper

1. Note Humidistat setting and turn dial to the “OFF” position.

2. Turn offf water supply. Turn the integral bypass damper (10) to the SUMMER position.
3. At the side of the unit opposite the airflow duct pull front cover (1) off holding with both
hands and set aside.
4. Carefully pull the plastic feed tube (2) out of the nozzle (3) at the top of the Water Panel
evaporator assembly (4). Pull this assembly out by grasping at top and tipping out.
5. Unsnap the distribution tray from the scale control insert (8). Follow the instructions below
depending upon the type of distribution tray in your humidifier:
For trays with a synthetic fabric liner: Lightly scrape out or brush off any mineral deposits,
being careful not to stretch or loosen the synthetic fabric liner. Soaking the tray in vinegar
or a lime-removing agent is helpful when trying to remove stubborn mineral deposits.
For trays with granular coating: Do not scrape off the granular coating, but lightly scrape
out any mineral deposits and clean the “V” notches (6). This textured surface helps ensure
even water flow for maximum performance. See page 3 if removed.
6. Slide the Water Panel evaporator (7) out from the Scale Control Insert (8). Clean the insert
frame by twisting and flexing it to loosen the calcium deposits. Replace the Water Panel
evaporator (Stock No. 10) and with a new Genuine Aprilaire Water Panel. Slide the pad
back into the insert frame with color mark up and snap the distributon tray back into place.
7. Inspect the plastic feed tube (2) by gently flexing it and looking for cracks or signs of wear.
Replace tube if it is cracked, brittle, or has been damaged.
8. Re-install the Water Panel evaporator assembly (4) into the unit by fitting its drain into the
round receptacle at the base of the unit. Push the assembly in at the top against the
beveled tabs that will hold it in place. Push the end of the feed tube (2) back firmly into the
nozzle and replace the front cover.
9. Remove the drain hose (9) from the bottom of the unit and flex it to loosen any mineral
deposits or blockage. Then flush it with water under pressure and slip it back onto the
drain fitting. Make sure the drain hose has a constant downward slope and is not flattened
or blocked.
10. Turn on the water supply.
11. Check system operation:
Humidistat: With the furnace blower operating and the furnace calling for heat, turn up
Humidistat and check system operation .
12. Set Humidistat to its original position.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS
LIMITED WARRANTY
Your Research Products Corporation Aprilaire Humidifier unit is expressly warranted for one (1)
®

year from date of installation to be free from defects except, however, for the disposable Water
Panel which will have to be replaced from time to time depending upon the amount of use.
Research Products Corporation’s exclusive obligation under this warranty shall be to supply,
without charge, a replacement for any part of the humidifier which is found to be defective within
one (1) year period and which is returned not later than thirty (30) days after said one (1) year
period by you to either your original supplier or to Research Products Corporation, Madison,
Wisconsin 53701, together with the model number, manufacturing code number and installation
date of the humidifier.
THIS WARRANTY SHALL NOT OBLIGATE RESEARCH PRODUCTS CORPORATION FOR ANY LABOR
COSTS AND SHALL NOT APPLY TO DEFECTS IN WORKMANSHIP OR MATERIALS FURNISHED BY
YOUR INSTALLER AS CONTRASTED TO DEFECTS IN THE HUMIDIFIER ITSELF.
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE SHALL
BE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE AFORESAID ONE YEAR PERIOD. RESEARCH PRODUCTS
CORPORATION’S LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, OTHER THAN
DAMAGES FOR PERSONAL INJURIES, RESULTING FROM ANY BREACH OF THE AFORESAID
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR THE ABOVE LIMITED WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY EXCLUDED. THIS
LIMITED WARRANTY IS VOID IF DEFECT(S) RESULT FROM FAILURE TO HAVE THIS UNIT
INSTALLED BY A QUALIFIED HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING CONTRACTOR. IF THE LIMITED
WARRANTY IS VOID DUE TO FAILURE TO USE A QUALIFIED CONTRACTOR, ALL DISCLAIMERS OF
IMPLIED WARRANTIES SHALL BE EFFECTIVE UPON INSTALLATION.
Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts or the exclusion or
limitation of incidental or consequential damages so the above exclusion or limitations may not
apply to you.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights which vary from
state to state.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
WARRANTY REGISTRATION
Visit us on-line at www.aprilaire.com to register your Aprilaire product.
If you do not have on-line access, please mail a postcard with your name, address,
phone number, product purchased and date of purchase to:
Research Products Corporation, P.O. BOX 1828, Madison, WI 53701

Your Warranty Registration information will not be sold or shared outside of this company.

Thank you!

Intelligent Solutions for Indoor Environments

An entire line of indoor air quality products that are the best in
their categories. Together they set a new standard for intuitive
use, performance and reliability. Aprilaire products enhance
your comfort, health and energy efficiency:
• Zoned Comfort Control • Automatic Humidifiers
• Electronic Thermostats • Ventilation • UV Germicidal Lamps
• High Efficiency Air Cleaners • Whole-Home Dehumidifiers

PO BOX 1467 • MADISON, WI 53701-1467

DP 10006405 01.05
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B2203619C