How to Clean a Vicks V5100 1.7 Gallon Ultrasonic Humidifier

The Vicks Ultrasonic Humidifier (V5100 1.7 Gallon) by Kaz Inc. is a cool mist humidifier that allows users to adjust mist levels—moisture levels controlling the amount of humidity produced as well as the intensity and direction of the mist. Although the Ultrasonic has these features, it can still increase moisture in a room to levels that promote bacteria growth. In addition, it accumulates dirt, dust and mineral buildup over time. As a result, you must rinse your humidifier daily and then wash weekly to safeguard your home/business environment and maintain humidifier efficiency.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Microfiber cloths
• Mask
• Gloves
• Bleach
• 1 gallon jug
• White vinegar
• Cup
• Cotton swabs (optional)

Instructions

Daily

1. Turn off and unplug your humidifier from the electrical socket.

2. Remove and clean the water tank. Remove the water tank cap and wipe it with a wet (water only) lint-free microfiber cloth. Remove the mist nozzle and set it and the cap aside. Empty the water from the tank and then rinse it with lukewarm running tap water.

3. Clean the reservoir. Pour out any excess water. Wipe the reservoir interior—excluding the air outlet and water sensor—with a wet (water only) cloth.

4. Reassemble and use the humidifier. Refill the water tank, reattach the cap and mist nozzle and then return the tank to the base. Plug in and turn on the unit.

Weekly

1. Turn off and unplug your humidifier.

2. Prep the water tank. Remove the water tank cap and mist nozzle, wipe the tank cap and then set both pieces aside. Empty the tank.

3. Put on your safety gear (mask and gloves) and make a bleach/water solution. Add 1 tsp. bleach to one gallon of water.

4. Clean the water tank. Fill it to the fill line with bleach solution, re-attach the cap and wait 20 minutes. Shake the tank, pour out the water and then rinse under lukewarm tap water until you can no longer smell bleach.

5. Apply bleach solution to a cloth and wipe clean the reservoir. Rinse the reservoir when finished with wet (water only) cloths until you can no longer smell bleach.

6. Remove mineral buildup from the nebulizer and water sensor. Apply undiluted white vinegar to a cloth and gently wipe the nebulizer and sensor. If the nebulizer has thick buildup, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a cup, pour into the reservoir/base and soak for one hour. Dislodge the buildup with a cloth or cotton swab. Pour out the solution and then rinse with wet cloths.

7. Reassemble and use your humidifier. Refill the tank, reattach the cap and mist nozzle and then return the water tank to the base. Plug in the unit and turn it on.

Tips & Warnings

• Replace the demineralization cartridge (if applicable to your model) every one to two months depending on the level of mineral buildup.

• Always empty the water tank if the humidifier isn't in use as bacteria growth can start within one to two days. Never use detergents as detergent residues can negatively affect the efficiency of the mist output. In addition, never use brushes or abrasive cleaners as abrasives can damage the plastic parts, nebulizer and water sensor. Always gently wipe the water sensor, as it is susceptible to damage if harshly wiped. Never touch the ultrasonic nebulizer with bare fingers when cleaning as fingerprints caused by oils or other residues can affect mist output. Never immerse the base in water as doing so can permanently damage the unit.

References

• Kaz Inc.: Vicks Ultrasonic Humidifier V5100-N/V5100JUV: Owner's Manual PDF link