Review on AIRCARE MAF2 Replacement Wicking Humidifier by Stephen Good

I read some reviews about this product recently because I thought they didn't last as long as they used to and I fined other customers, who had the same complaints. I noticed that the Aircare name eventually replaced Essick Air, so maybe that has something to do with it. raises the humidity just enough to keep it there for a while (e.g. set to 50% but actual humidity is around 40-43%). Firstly, I've found that hard water is a lifespan factor even when using additives to prevent limescale build-up, but I've found that you should never let the tank dry out, the longer it's been without water in it the more stiff the wick will become and doesn't work well anymore, if at all. Also the same effect when you turn off the device. Second, when you stop working, I found that when I turn off the device, remove the case and turn the filter on the head, make sure it is wet on top and bottom. Then turn it back on and the next day or so it will come back to life a little. You can only do this a few times before actually having to put a new one on. The notes on the packaging compare this to other brands saying they last 90 days longer than other brands. In my case, I've never had a single filter last more than 30-45 days, probably due to hard water. I saw a review that attached a photo with a folded filter lying on the bottom of the device. This happened to me once when I was trying to flush the filter to get some hard water buildup out of it. Lesson learned, never do this as it will mean instant death for the filter/wick. Another note about the packaging. It comes folded in the box and forms two folds that make it difficult to get it back into a round shape to fit the device properly. It would be much better if they were folded as shown in the picture in the Revain product description. While I wish we could go back to the previous quality, I hope what I've learned about them will help other buyers.