Easy to install and works great
I purchased the Aprilaire 700 to replace the model 110 that quit working after 15 years. Several reviews said this was a good choice so I thought I'd give it a try.
Everything arrived in one box and the instructions were very clear. Since I was replacing an older power model, the wiring was already done for me but it looked easy enough. I did replace the water supply line which came with the new humidifier and had to cut a larger hole in the plenum and smaller hole in the return air supply for the humidistat.
In all, it took me about 2 hours to cut and fit the new one in. I did't use the outdoor temp. sensor because I prefer to use a manual setting. The unit has been operating flawlessly for a couple of months and the humidity in my house has risen to where it's much more comfortable. I'd recommend this unit.
Busted after 2 years
We had an Aprilaire 700 system installed professionally, but the solenoid broke after two years. (the solenoid controls the water flow from your plumbing into the unit). This is the most powerful system Aprilaire makes, and was recommended for our house by the ARS professionals that installed it. The system never got our humidity over 30%, but in fact we have hardwood floors in about 1/6 of our house - and lots of wood furniture, and about 3500 sq ft of floor space. The unit seems better suited for houses without much wood (floors and/or furniture) and certainly less than 3500 sq ft. Suitability aside, I'm not happy the solenoid, which is over $200 to replace/install, broke after less than two years. Unfortunately, we got only 1 year parts/labor on the unit.
Poor Design
We purchased the 700 in 2004 and it has been nothing but a headache for us. The first two years the water panel wouldn't stay wet. The installer blamed it on the saddle attachement to the water pipe. He came out and cleaned the saddle and claimed it worked but we never had anything but dry air. About 2007 we had someone come out and tell us the panel holder doesn't distribute the water well and they came out with a new version that has fabric in it. Bought that and it helped for a year and the fabric came loose and had to buy another. (in addition to replacing the panel each season). Finally last year we had someone install a real valve to replace the saddle. Then this unit started pouring water all over the floor. Apparently the low-flowing saddle was masking other problems. Some low-flow, inlined device was broken. (read $.01 piece of plastic) I ordered a new hose for it and put it in. The new hose was so stiff that part of it broke on trying to install it. Duct tape...
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