Customer Reviews

Bionaire BCM7308-U Digital Cool-Mist Humidifier with Permanent Filter

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(3)

 

 

I took away a star due to the fact that it advertises "permanent filter" and it is not a permanent filter at all. Like others say, mineral deposits will build up over time and you have to either soak the filter in soapy warm water to clean or throw it out and purchase replacement filters. Since Bionaire doesn't make the replacement filters, here is a tip: I purchased replacement filters of another brand and they worked just fine! As far as the operation of this unit, I give it 4 stars. It really does produce humidity (unlike a lot of other brands which produce absolutely nothing) and the digital level display is also a nice bonus. Using the automatic shut off is annoying because it will (just like another reviewer stated) turn off and on several times in a row. I am fine with just using the manual on/off option.

I've used this humidifier for one winter so far. It did pretty well as humidifiers go. I recommend it with the following caveates:

1. I would not say the filters are permenant. I'd be leary of any humidifier with "permenant filters". The reality is, they build up mineral deposits. I guess I could have tried to wash them out, but I chose to replace them. The replacements range from 11.00 on Ebay to about 16.00 on Amazon (as of 5/2008). You can find replacements but NOT from the manufacturer.

2. When using the automatic feature (which turns the unit off when the proper humidity is reached), the unit tends to cycle on and off multiple times at the set value. I don't know if the sensor is too sensitive, but it is a bit annoying to hear it turn on and off about 5 or more times until it decides to stay off. Also, I would not call the unit a quiet unit at high speed. Since I like white noise, I didn't mind it as much, but others may have a different opinion.

It would be a great product if the "permanent filters" were perm. but they aren't. They get dirty and collect impurities from the water. If you have hard water the filters won't last very long.

It maybe possible to use filters made for a similar humidifier in this one. But I do not know yet.

UPDATE:
I am using filters for another Bionaire humidifier in this. It works great. I'm changing my rating to 4 stars, because with replaceable paper filters, this thing ROCKS!

So I bought this thing (garbage product). I turn it on, next thing you know the humidstat is going berserk! It would just turned on and off the whole night!!!! The funny part is, the room was beyond dry yet the humidstat would read it as perfectly fine and wouldnt let out any air!! USELESS HUMIDSTAT!!!

I thought that was all the problem... WRONG! I wake up in the morning! flood!!! Water all over the floor!!! I checked the o-ring, it was perfectly fine no water leaked from there! I bought new filters ($10 each set!) and replaced it... guess what? still leaked all over the floor!

customer service is horrible! All their suggestions failed! (check o-ring, clean unit, blah, blah, blah)

Hands down the worst piece of equipment ever made!

Please stay away from this item at all cost!

Never will I buy 'bionaire' product EVER again!

I have used this unit for three weeks now. It is ok. A few problems. There is water leak and you must put it in a container that can prevent the leaking water from spilling all over. Very messy. THe filter is not permanent. Needs to be cleaned weekly. The automatic switch does not allow setting above 65. Overall I am not impressed.

I have one and it is working great. I do however take the filter out and soak it once a week with warm soapy water and a little bleach. No more dry itchy skin! its perfect.

This product is great but you can not get a replacement filter for it. If you do not clean it properly after each use, you will get build up on it and have to throw it out, but I can not find a replacement anywhere...not even with the manufacturer.

The Bionaire is larger than I expected, however it is quiet and when I wake up in the morning my mouth does not feel like a desert.

We're very satisfied with the mist humidifier which I purchased for my Mom's apartment. Delivery was fast. The price was good. The unit is quiet. The reservoir is large and easy to refill. Though the unit has a permanent filter, I ordered extra filters based on the reviews. Thus far, rinsing the perma-filter is all that is needed.

I have asthma and emphysema and need a cool mist humidifier that does it's work well. This one fits the bill. I use it in my office and it has really made a difference in my breathing and the freshness of the air.

I highly recommend this unit.