Honeywell Humidifier HWM 500 - UV Warm Moisture Manual

The Honeywell HWM 500 is a warm moisture humidifier with UV technology, designed for medium to large rooms up to 500 sq. ft. It features a 1-gallon tank, adjustable humidity control, a UV light to help reduce microorganisms in the water, a quiet operation mode, an auto-shutoff function when empty, an easy-to-clean design, and a refill indicator light. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Operation Modes 7. Maintenance & Cleaning 8. UV Light Function 9. Care & Storage 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Water Tank with Handle, UV Light Chamber, Humidistat Control Dial, Mist Outlet, Power Base with Fan, Refill Indicator, and Power Cord.

FeatureDescription
UV TechnologyEmits ultraviolet light to help reduce microorganisms in the water tank
Warm Moisture OutputProduces a warm, comfortable mist
1-Gallon Tank CapacitySuitable for up to 24 hours of operation on low setting
Adjustable HumidistatDial control to set desired humidity level (30% - 60%)
Quiet Operation ModeLow-speed setting for nighttime use
Auto Shut-OffTurns off automatically when tank is empty
Refill Indicator LightLED light illuminates when water level is low
Easy-Clean DesignWide tank opening and accessible components
Carrying HandleIntegrated handle for easy tank transport
Power IndicatorShows when unit is powered on

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place on a stable, level, and moisture-resistant surface.

  1. Remove all packaging materials from the humidifier and tank.
  2. Fill the tank: Carry tank to sink, remove cap, fill with cool, clean tap water. Replace cap securely.
  3. Place tank on base: Align tank with base and set down firmly. Ensure no gaps.
  4. Plug into a standard 120V AC electrical outlet.

WARNING! Place humidifier on a flat, stable surface away from heat sources and electronics. Do not place on carpets or uneven surfaces. Ensure the unit is upright before plugging in.

First-Time Use

Power on the humidifier and set your preferences.

  1. Initial Fill: Fill the tank completely with clean, cool water for the first use.
  2. Power On: Plug in the unit. The Power Indicator and UV light will illuminate.
  3. Set Humidity: Turn the Humidistat Control Dial to your desired setting (e.g., 45%).
  4. Select Output: Choose between High (for rapid humidification) or Low/Quiet (for sustained, quiet operation).
  5. Allow 10-15 minutes for warm mist to begin emitting from the outlet.

CAUTION! Use only clean, cool tap water. Do not use hot water, distilled water with additives, or essential oils, as this may damage the unit or void the warranty. Never operate without water in the tank.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

All controls are located on the front or top of the power base.

Control Dial (Humidistat): Rotate to set desired room humidity level. The unit will cycle on and off to maintain this level.
Output Selector Switch: Toggle between HIGH (faster mist output) and LOW/QUIET (slower, quieter operation).
Power/UV Indicator: A single LED indicates power is on. The UV chamber is active whenever the unit is powered and contains water.
Refill Indicator Light: A separate amber LED illuminates when the water tank is nearly empty.

Note: The UV light is not user-serviceable. It is designed to operate for the lifespan of the product under normal use.

Operation Modes

The humidifier offers two main modes of operation.

  1. Constant Operation: Set the Humidistat Dial to the highest setting. The unit will run continuously until the tank is empty or turned off.
  2. Automatic Humidity Control: Set the Humidistat Dial to your desired humidity level (e.g., 40-50% is recommended for comfort). The built-in humidistat will turn the fan and heating element on and off to maintain the set level.
  3. Quiet Mode: Use the LOW/QUIET setting on the Output Selector for minimal fan noise, ideal for bedrooms or offices.

Tip: For best results, keep doors to the room closed. Use a hygrometer to monitor room humidity independently.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular cleaning is essential for performance and to prevent mineral buildup or microbial growth.

  1. Daily: Refill with fresh, cool water. Do not let water sit for more than 24 hours without use.
  2. Weekly Cleaning:
    • Unplug the unit and remove the water tank.
    • Empty any remaining water from the base reservoir.
    • Clean the tank and base with a soft cloth or brush and a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water. Do not submerge the power base.
    • Rinse all parts thoroughly with clean water to remove soap residue.
  3. Descaling (Monthly or as needed):
    • Use a commercial humidifier descaler or a solution of white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio).
    • Pour solution into the tank and base, let sit for 15-20 minutes, then scrub gently.
    • Rinse multiple times with clean water until vinegar smell is gone.

WARNING! Always unplug the unit before cleaning. Never use abrasive cleaners, bleach, or ammonia, as they can damage plastic components.

UV Light Function

The integrated UV light is designed to help reduce certain microorganisms, such as bacteria and mold spores, in the water tank before the water is vaporized.

Note: The UV bulb has a long lifespan and is not intended to be replaced by the user.

Care & Storage

Proper care extends the life of your humidifier.

During Season: Keep unit on a dry, level surface. Wipe exterior with a dry cloth as needed.
End of Season / Long-Term Storage:

  1. Unplug the unit.
  2. Perform a thorough cleaning and descaling as described in Section 8.
  3. Empty the tank and base completely. Allow all parts to air dry completely for 24-48 hours.
  4. Reassemble the dry unit and store in its original box or a clean, dry place away from dust and extreme temperatures.

CAUTION! Never store the unit with water inside, as this can lead to mold, mineral deposits, and damage.

Regulatory Information

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. This product is listed by UL (Underwriters Laboratories). Copyright © Honeywell International Inc. Honeywell and the Honeywell logo are registered trademarks of Honeywell International Inc. For support, visit www.honeywellpluggedin.com or contact Honeywell Customer Care at 1-800-332-1110.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No mist / No powerNot plugged in; Empty tank; Outlet issueEnsure unit is plugged in; Fill tank with water; Try a different outlet.
Low mist outputMineral scale buildup; Clogged outlet; Low settingClean and descale unit; Ensure mist outlet is clear; Switch to HIGH setting.
Water leakingTank cap not tight; Tank misaligned; Cracked tankEnsure cap is securely tightened; Realign tank on base; Inspect for cracks and replace if necessary.
Unusual noiseLow water level; Mineral deposits on fanRefill water tank; Clean the fan and heating chamber (see cleaning instructions).
Refill light stays onFloat valve stuck; Sensor issueGently shake unit to free float valve; Unplug, empty, clean base, and restart.
White dust in roomMinerals in water being dispersedUse demineralization cartridges (if compatible) or distilled water; Clean unit more frequently.

Reset: Unplug the unit for 2 minutes, then plug back in.

Service: For issues not resolved above, contact Honeywell Customer Care at 1-800-332-1110 or visit www.honeywellpluggedin.com. Do not attempt to repair the unit yourself.

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