The Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier, model EE-5956, is designed to enhance the indoor environment by adding moisture to the air. This humidifier is intended for household use and operates by converting water into a fine, cool mist that is then dispersed into the room. Its primary function is to alleviate issues associated with dry air, such as dry skin, irritated sinuses, and static electricity, contributing to a more comfortable living space.
The humidifier is designed with user safety and ease of use in mind. It features a simple control dial for adjusting the mist output, allowing users to customize the level of humidity to their preference. The unit is equipped with a power indicator light that changes color to signal its operational status: green indicates sufficient water and active misting, while red signifies that the water tank is empty and the mist output has stopped. This safety feature helps prevent the humidifier from overheating and potentially damaging the nebulizer.
For optimal performance and safety, the humidifier should always be placed on a smooth, flat, lint-free, non-metallic, and waterproof surface, at least two feet above the floor. It is crucial to ensure that the fan vent, located on the bottom of the humidifier base, remains unobstructed to allow for proper airflow. The device is designed to be used with clean, cool tap water, though filtered or distilled water is recommended to minimize the accumulation of white dust, especially in areas with hard water. Hot water should never be used. The water tank has a capacity that allows for up to 24 hours of continuous operation, reducing the frequency of refills.
Filling the water tank is a straightforward process. The tank is inverted, the cap is unscrewed, and it is filled with cool water. It is important to hold the filled water tank with two hands to prevent spills and ensure stability. The water tank cap must be firmly tightened before the tank is placed back onto the humidifier base. Once the tank is securely in place and the unit is plugged into a 110-120VAC outlet, the control dial can be turned to activate the mist output. Users should avoid moving the humidifier when the water tank is full and placed on the base, as this can lead to water leakage or overfilling of the humidifier base.
The humidifier is designed for indoor use only and should not be operated outdoors. To prevent excessive humidity or condensation, particularly in smaller rooms, it is advisable to leave the room door partly open and adjust the mist intensity to a lower setting. High humidity levels can lead to moisture accumulation on surfaces, which may encourage the growth of bacteria and fungi, and potentially damage furniture and walls. The mist lid should always be in place during operation, and the humidifier should be positioned so that the mist is directed away from children, walls, furniture, and electrical appliances.
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the humidifier's long-term performance and to prevent the buildup of mineral deposits and bacteria. Daily maintenance involves turning off and unplugging the unit, emptying any remaining water from both the tank and the base, and allowing them to air dry. The tank cap should be left off until the next use to facilitate drying.
Weekly maintenance requires a more thorough cleaning. After emptying the tank and base, the water tank should be filled halfway with warm water and two tablespoons of white vinegar. The tank should be shaken vigorously and allowed to sit for 30 minutes before being emptied and rinsed with plain water. Similarly, the base should be filled with warm water and one tablespoon of white vinegar, left to sit for 30 minutes, then emptied and rinsed. When emptying the base, care must be taken to pour water away from the fan outlet. The nebulizer, a key component, can be cleaned with a damp cloth or cotton swab after soaking. It is crucial to remember that the humidifier base should never be immersed in water. After cleaning, all parts should be allowed to air dry completely before reassembly or storage.
For end-of-season storage, the humidifier should be cleaned according to the weekly maintenance instructions, ensuring all parts are thoroughly dry. It should then be stored in a cool, dry place. This diligent cleaning and storage routine helps maintain the unit's efficiency and extends its lifespan. The use of detergents for cleaning is discouraged, as residual film can interfere with the unit's output; white vinegar mixed with water is the recommended cleaning solution.
The humidifier is equipped with a polarized plug, a safety feature designed to reduce the risk of electrical shock. This plug has one blade wider than the other and is intended to fit into a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit initially, it should be reversed. Users are advised not to attempt to defeat this safety feature. It is also important to always plug and unplug the unit with dry hands to avoid electric shock and never operate the unit with a damaged cord or plug. The power cord should be kept away from heated surfaces and areas where it could be walked on or tripped over. The unit should be unplugged when not in use, and before any cleaning, maintenance, or movement.
In case of any operational issues, users are encouraged to contact Crane Customer Care rather than attempting to repair the motor themselves. Common troubleshooting steps include ensuring the water tank cap is properly secured, checking for overfilled bases, cleaning the water level sensor, verifying that the unit is properly plugged in and turned on, and cleaning the water tank and base if strange odors are present. If white dust appears, it may indicate hard tap water, and switching to filtered or distilled water or using a demineralization filter cartridge is recommended. For leaks, users should check the mist lid, the tank for cracks, or contact customer care if the leak is from the base. Spare parts can also be purchased online.