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Microbial prevalence in domestic humidifiers

H A Burge, W R Solomon, J R Boise

Applied and Environmental Microbiology

|April 1, 1980

Summary

Domestic humidifiers commonly harbor thermophilic bacteria and mesophilic fungi. Antifoulants and airborne sampling did not accurately reflect contamination levels in these microbial reservoirs.

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Area of Science:

Microbiology
Environmental Health
Indoor Air Quality

Background:

Domestic humidifiers are potential reservoirs for microbial growth.
Understanding the microbial ecology of humidifiers is crucial for public health.
Previous studies have indicated the presence of microorganisms in humidifiers, but comprehensive data on thermophilic and mesophilic species is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the prevalence of viable thermophilic bacteria, actinomycetes, and mesophilic fungi in domestic humidifiers.
To assess the effectiveness of antifoulants in controlling microbial growth.
To compare indoor airborne microbial levels with humidifier contamination patterns.

Main Methods:

Analysis of 145 samples from 110 domestic humidifiers (furnace and console types).
Culturing techniques to identify and quantify thermophilic bacteria, actinomycetes, and mesophilic fungi.
Detection of thermophilic actinomycete antigens in humidifier fluid.
Volumetric air sampling in 20 homes during humidifier operation.

Main Results:

72% of furnace and 43% of console humidifiers contained viable thermophilic bacteria.
60% of furnace and 72% of console humidifiers showed mesophilic fungal growth.
Thermophilic actinomycetes were found in 7 samples; antigens were not detected.
Antifoulants did not significantly affect microbial frequency.
Airborne microbial counts did not correlate with humidifier contamination.

Conclusions:

Domestic humidifiers frequently harbor significant levels of thermophilic bacteria and mesophilic fungi.
Current antifoulant treatments appear ineffective in reducing microbial load.
Air sampling during operation does not accurately represent the microbial contamination within humidifiers.
Humidifiers may act as a source of indoor microbial exposure, necessitating further investigation.

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