Evaporative Humidifiers: Decoding the Display Codes

Some of our most frequently asked questions are about the notifications that come up on the humidifier display panels. Knowing what the notifications mean and what you should do about them is important.

“CF” CODE
All of our evaporative humidifiers require the use of a wick, which most of our customers call a “filter.” This wicking filter is made of a special paper that absorbs water. As the water evaporates, the humidifier’s fan blows over the filter to circulate the evaporated water vapor into your home which adds humidity to your air. These filters need to be changed periodically. To help remind you, we built a check filter indicator, or “CF” code, into many of our evaporative models. This CF code is programmed to flash at approximately 720 hours of use on your humidifier and means it is time to check the filter. This is not an indicator that anything is wrong. It is just a reminder to do a check of the filter’s condition to see if it needs to be replaced. When you see the CF code, unplug your unit and discard any remaining water. Then check your filter for dirt, damage, or clogs. If your filter needs a replacement, now is the time to drop in a new one. We at AIRCARE HQ recommend replacing your wicking filter at the beginning of each season and every 30 to 60 days of operation thereafter. After checking the condition of your filter, and replacing if needed, you can refill your unit and plug it back in. This will reset the timer and after another 720 hours of use the reminder will appear once again.

Something extra to keep in mind: the “CF” notification will be reset if the unit is unplugged or there is a power outage for an extended period of time. If this occurs, just give your filter an additional inspection when power is restored to the unit.

TIP: If the CF code continues to flash, or is flashing when you are certain it is not time to replace the filter, unplug the unit for about ten minutes to reset the reminder. Plug the humidifier back in and the notification should have cleared. If it continues to flash, please call our customer service team at 1-800-547-3888.

“CL” CODE
Another notification that may come up is the “CL” code. This is an indication that the control lock feature has been activated and that the humidifier’s settings have been locked to prevent changes being made. If changes to the settings are attempted while operating in control lock mode, the “CL” will display but no changes to the humidity level or fan speed will actually occur. To turn off the control lock feature, simply press and hold the power button for five seconds. The “CL” will flash once on and once off. The control lock feature is now turned off and the display will return to normal, displaying the room’s current humidity. To activate the control lock feature, program the desired settings, then hold the power button for five seconds. The display will show “CL” for two seconds. Release the power button and the display will return to normal. The settings are now locked.

“F” CODE
Another common question we get is about the flashing “F.” It simply means “fill.” If the display is flashing “F” then your unit needs to be filled with water. If your unit has adequate water and the “F” is displaying, you can check two things. First, check the float indicator inside of your water reservoir. Make sure it is accurately placed so that it is reading the water level inside the unit. Be sure to check for damage to your float rod, as they, very occasionally, can bend or break. The second thing to check is that the humidifier is level. Placing the unit on an uneven surface can cause the float to give an inaccurate reading, thus turning on the “F” indicator too soon. Once you have either filled the unit or adjusted the float, the “F” notification will clear from the display.

You can order replacement filters and floats through our AIRCARE website or by calling Customer Support at 1-800-547-3888 from 7:00am to 5:00pm CST, Monday through Friday. Be sure to use only AIRCARE brand replacement wicking filters, floats, and additives (such as Bacteriostat). If you still have questions about display notifications or if you have any other questions, we are happy to help.