There are more than a few basements across the country with a faux-wood-paneled humidifier clunking away in the corner. The 12-Gallon Console Evaporative Humidifier 14416 (Sears item 03214416000) from Kenmore is a newer, far more effective version of the old 1970s model.

This console unit is designed to humidify spaces up to 2,500 square feet, and comes equipped with a variable humidistat, which cycles the unit on and off depending on how much humidity is in the room. It uses two fans to push moisture into the air and sits on four twin-wheel casters. Despite its size, this model only weighs 30 pounds.

This unit's design uses a top-load door, which is a nice improvement over the awkward front-load angled doors of days of yore. The control panel is up-to-date as well, and features a convenient water level gauge and a three-speed dial. The Kenmore 12-gallon console evaporative humidifier 14416 is covered by a 1-year limited warranty.


Pros: Updated design, top-load door
Cons: Moderate output

Warranty
1 year, limited