What is UL 60335-2-87?

UL 60335-2-87, also known as the Standard for Safety of Household and Similar Electrical Appliances - Part 2-87: Particular Requirements for Humidifiers, is an internationally recognized standard developed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL). It sets forth the safety requirements that humidifiers must meet in order to be considered safe for use in residential and similar environments.

Purpose of UL 60335-2-87

The main purpose of UL 60335-2-87 is to ensure that humidifiers do not pose a risk of fire, electric shock, or other hazards to users. This standard covers various aspects of humidifier safety, including electrical insulation, mechanical strength, temperature limits, and protection against moisture ingress. Compliance with this standard provides consumers with confidence that the humidifier they are purchasing has been thoroughly tested and deemed safe for use.

Key Requirements of UL 60335-2-87

UL 60335-2-87 outlines several key requirements that humidifiers must meet:

Electrical Safety: The standard specifies minimum electrical insulation levels, grounding requirements, and protection against overcurrent and short-circuit conditions.

Mechanical Strength: Humidifiers must be able to withstand certain mechanical stresses, such as impacts and vibrations, without compromising their safety or functionality.

Protection against Moisture: Measures must be in place to prevent water from entering the electrical components of the humidifier, reducing the risk of electric shock or damage to the device.

Temperature Limits: The standard sets maximum temperature limits for different parts of the humidifier, ensuring that they do not reach hazardous levels during normal operation.

Benefits of UL 60335-2-87 Compliance

Compliance with UL 60335-2-87 offers several benefits:

User Safety: By adhering to this standard, manufacturers can offer consumers products that have undergone rigorous testing for safety hazards, minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries.

Market Access: Many countries and regions require compliance with specific safety standards before products can be sold within their borders. Meeting UL 60335-2-87 requirements facilitates market access in these regions.

Product Competitiveness: Displaying UL certification on a humidifier can increase its perceived value and consumer trust. It serves as a testament to the product's quality, safety, and reliability.

Conclusion

UL 60335-2-87 plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and reliability of household humidifiers. By following this standard, manufacturers can provide consumers with products they can trust, reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing market competitiveness. Consumers are encouraged to look for UL certification when purchasing humidifiers to ensure the devices meet stringent safety requirements.