Are you tired of dry air making your home uncomfortable during the colder months? Installing an Aprilaire 700 Humidifier could be the simple solution you need.
This device helps keep the right moisture level in your home, improving your comfort and even protecting your wood floors and furniture. But how do you get started with the installation? In this guide, you’ll find clear, step-by-step instructions that make setting up your Aprilaire 700 easy and hassle-free.
Preparing For Installation
Preparing for the Aprilaire 700 humidifier installation is an important first step. It helps ensure a smooth setup and better performance. Taking time to get ready saves effort later and avoids common mistakes. This section guides you through key preparations before installation begins.
Gathering Necessary Tools And Materials
Collect all tools and materials before starting. Having everything at hand speeds up the process and prevents interruptions.
- Drill with bits for making holes
- Screwdriver set for mounting screws
- Pipe cutter for water line adjustments
- Teflon tape for sealing pipe threads
- Measuring tape to mark placement
- Aprilaire 700 humidifier kit including all parts
- Safety glasses and gloves
Choosing The Best Location
Select a spot near your HVAC system. The humidifier must connect to the furnace or air handler. Check for enough space to access the unit for future maintenance.
- Look for a flat surface on the furnace or nearby wall
- Ensure water supply access is close
- Avoid areas with extreme heat or cold
- Confirm electrical outlet availability
Shutting Off Power And Water Supply
Turn off the furnace power to avoid electric shock. Also, shut off the water supply before connecting the humidifier. This prevents leaks and accidents during installation.
- Switch off furnace power at the breaker panel
- Close the main water valve or water line valve
- Drain any water from pipes if needed
Reading The Installation Manual Thoroughly
Study the Aprilaire 700 installation manual carefully. It contains specific instructions and safety tips. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines strictly to avoid damage or voiding warranty.
Shutting Off Power And Water
Before starting the Aprilaire 700 humidifier installation, shutting off power and water is a critical safety step. This step prevents electrical shocks and water damage during the installation. Taking time to properly turn off these utilities protects both you and your home.
Shutting Off The Power
Locate the circuit breaker panel in your home. Find the switch that controls the HVAC system or the area where you will install the humidifier. Flip the breaker switch to the OFF position. This step ensures no electricity flows to the humidifier wiring.
- Check that the HVAC system is off after shutting the breaker.
- Use a voltage tester to confirm power is off at the installation site.
- Do not skip this step to avoid electric shock.
Turning Off The Water Supply
Identify the water supply valve connected to your HVAC system or humidifier line. Turn the valve clockwise until it stops. This action stops water from flowing to the humidifier during installation.
- Locate the main water shutoff or the humidifier water line valve.
- Turn the valve fully off by rotating it clockwise.
- Drain any water remaining in the pipes by opening a nearby faucet.
Safety Tips For Power And Water Shutdown
Recommended: How to Wire Aprilaire 700 Humidifier
| Step | Action | Reason |
| 1 | Turn off circuit breaker | Prevents electrical shock |
| 2 | Confirm power is off | Ensures safe wiring work |
| 3 | Shut off water valve | Avoids water leaks |
| 4 | Drain pipes | Removes standing water |
Mounting The Humidifier
Mounting the Aprilaire 700 Humidifier is a critical step in its installation. Proper mounting ensures the unit works efficiently and lasts longer. It involves attaching the humidifier to your home’s ductwork and securing it firmly. This process requires accuracy and care to avoid leaks and maintain safety. Follow clear steps to mount the humidifier well.
Attaching To The Ductwork
Connecting the Aprilaire 700 Humidifier to the ductwork allows steam or moisture to spread through the house. Start by locating the right spot on the supply or return duct. The humidifier must fit without blocking airflow. Here are key steps:
- Mark the position: Use the template provided to mark holes on the duct.
- Cut openings: Cut the duct carefully using tin snips or a metal saw.
- Install mounting plate: Attach the mounting plate to the duct with screws.
- Connect water line: Attach the water supply line to the humidifier inlet.
- Seal gaps: Use foil tape or duct sealant to close any openings around the humidifier.
Use the following table to check your duct size and humidifier compatibility:
| Duct Size (inches) | Humidifier Mounting Plate Size (inches) |
| 14 x 14 | 14 x 14 |
| 16 x 16 | 16 x 16 |
| 18 x 18 | 18 x 18 |
Make sure the water line is tight to avoid leaks. Double-check the mounting plate is flat and flush with the duct surface. This step is important to prevent humidifier damage and maintain efficient airflow.
Securing The Unit Properly
After attaching the humidifier to the ductwork, secure the unit firmly. This stops movement and prevents noise during operation. Use the screws and brackets included in the package. Follow these tips:
- Align the humidifier: Place the unit on the mounting plate so all holes match.
- Insert screws: Use a screwdriver to fix the humidifier to the plate using the correct screws.
- Check stability: Gently shake the humidifier to confirm it is secure and does not wobble.
- Seal edges: Apply foil tape around the humidifier edges to seal gaps from air leaks.
Proper securing reduces vibration and noise. It also helps the humidifier last longer without damage. Here is a checklist to follow:
- All screws tightened firmly
- Mounting plate flush with duct
- No gaps around humidifier edges
- Water line connected securely
- Humidifier stable and immobile
Use a level tool to check if the unit is straight. An uneven humidifier can cause water to spill or not distribute moisture well. Taking time to secure the unit properly improves performance and safety.
Connecting The Water Supply
Connecting the water supply is a crucial step in installing the Aprilaire 700 Humidifier. This process ensures the humidifier receives a steady flow of water needed to add moisture to your home’s air. Proper connection prevents leaks and guarantees efficient operation. Understanding how to locate the water line and install the water adapter will make the installation smooth and safe.
Locating The Water Line
Start by finding a cold water line near your HVAC system. The water line must be accessible and close enough to connect to the humidifier. Common places to find water lines include:
- Near the furnace or air handler
- Under a nearby sink
- Close to the main water supply pipe
Look for a copper or plastic pipe that carries cold water. Avoid hot water lines because hot water can damage the humidifier. Use a flashlight if the area is dark.
Check the water pressure before connecting. The Aprilaire 700 needs water pressure between 20 and 125 psi. You can use a pressure gauge to measure this. If the pressure is too high, a pressure regulator may be necessary.
| Step | Action | Tip |
| 1 | Identify cold water pipe near HVAC | Use flashlight for better visibility |
| 2 | Check water pressure | Use pressure gauge for accuracy |
| 3 | Ensure water shutoff valve is nearby | Allows easy maintenance and safety |
Turn off the main water valve before making any cuts or connections. This step prevents water spills and damage.
Installing The Water Adapter
The water adapter connects the humidifier to the water line securely. Use the adapter included with the Aprilaire 700 or a compatible one. Follow these steps:
- Turn off the water supply completely.
- Cut the water pipe cleanly using a pipe cutter.
- Attach the water adapter to the cut pipe.
- Secure the adapter with compression fittings or solder, depending on pipe type.
- Connect the water tubing from the humidifier to the adapter.
Use plumber’s tape on threaded connections to avoid leaks. Tighten fittings firmly but do not overtighten, which can cause damage.
Here are some tips for a smooth adapter installation:
- Wear gloves to protect your hands.
- Clean the pipe ends before attaching the adapter.
- Check for leaks after turning the water back on.
- Use a bucket or towel to catch water during connection.
Test the connection by running water through the humidifier line. Look for drips or wet spots. Fix any leaks before finishing the installation.
Wiring The Control
Wiring the control is a crucial step in the Aprilaire 700 Humidifier installation. Proper wiring ensures the humidifier works smoothly with your home’s heating system. It controls when the humidifier turns on and off based on the home’s humidity levels and furnace operation. Incorrect wiring can cause the system to fail or damage the furnace or humidifier. The main parts you will connect are the furnace control board and the humidistat. Both parts communicate to keep your home comfortable and healthy during dry seasons.
Connecting To The Furnace Control Board
Start by turning off the power to your furnace to avoid electrical shock. Locate the furnace control board, usually found inside the furnace cabinet. The board has labeled terminals for different connections. You will connect the humidifier wires to the proper terminals to control when it runs.
Follow these steps to connect to the furnace control board:
- Identify the 24-volt terminals marked as R (power) and C (common).
- Connect the humidifier’s red wire to the R terminal.
- Connect the humidifier’s white wire to the C terminal.
- Use wire nuts or terminal screws to secure the connections.
- Check that wires do not touch other terminals to prevent short circuits.
Here is a simple wiring table for quick reference:
| Humidifier Wire Color | Furnace Control Board Terminal | Function |
| Red | R | 24V Power |
| White | C | Common Ground |
After wiring, double-check all connections for tightness and correctness. Restore power and test the system by running the furnace. The humidifier should activate only when the furnace runs and humidity levels are low. This setup saves energy and keeps humidity balanced.
Setting Up The Humidistat
The humidistat controls when the humidifier turns on by measuring indoor humidity. You can mount it on a wall in a central area of your home. Avoid places near windows, doors, or direct sunlight because they give false readings.
Follow these steps to set up the humidistat:
- Mount the humidistat at about 5 feet high on the wall.
- Connect its wires to the humidifier control wires, usually using quick-connect terminals.
- Set the desired humidity level using the dial or digital control.
- Common settings range from 30% to 50% relative humidity.
Here is a table showing recommended humidity levels by season:
| Season | Recommended Humidity Level |
| Winter | 30% – 40% |
| Summer | 40% – 50% |
Adjust the humidistat slowly and observe how your home feels over a few days. Too much humidity can cause condensation and mold. Too little makes air dry and uncomfortable. Proper wiring and setup of the humidistat ensure your Aprilaire 700 works efficiently and keeps your home comfortable all year.
Final Checks And Testing
After installing the Aprilaire 700 Humidifier, the last step is to perform final checks and testing. This step ensures the unit works safely and efficiently. It helps catch any issues early, so the humidifier runs smoothly in your home. Follow these simple steps to complete the installation with confidence.
Visual Inspection Of Installation
Start by looking over all connections. Check the water line for leaks or kinks. Make sure the humidifier is securely mounted to the HVAC system. Confirm that electrical wiring is neat and properly connected. Loose wires or water leaks can cause problems later.
Powering On The Humidifier
- Turn on the HVAC system blower.
- Switch on the humidifier’s power supply.
- Set the humidistat to the recommended level (usually around 40-45%).
- Listen for the humidifier fan or water valve activation.
If the unit does not start, recheck wiring and power supply connections.
Checking Water Flow And Humidification
- Observe the water flow through the humidifier’s water panel.
- Look for steady water distribution without dripping.
- Ensure no water leaks near the unit.
- Feel the air coming from vents for added moisture.
Proper water flow means the humidifier will add the right amount of moisture.
Testing The Humidistat Function
Test the humidistat to confirm it controls humidity correctly:
- Lower the set humidity below current room level.
- Check that the humidifier turns off.
- Raise the set humidity above room level.
- Verify the humidifier turns back on.
This cycle ensures the humidistat responds accurately to room humidity changes.
Safety And Final Notes
| Check | Why It Matters |
| Secure Mounting | Prevents vibration and noise |
| No Water Leaks | Avoids water damage and mold |
| Proper Electrical Connections | Prevents electrical shorts or fire |
| Humidistat Accuracy | Keeps indoor air comfortable |
Follow these checks to keep your Aprilaire 700 running safely and efficiently.
Conclusion
Installing the Aprilaire 700 humidifier helps keep your home comfortable. It adds the right amount of moisture to dry air. This can reduce problems like dry skin and static electricity. The installation steps are simple and clear to follow. Taking time to set it up correctly saves you future trouble.
Enjoy healthier air and a cozier home all year. The Aprilaire 700 works well with most heating systems. A well-installed humidifier makes a big difference in your living space.
