Just bought a swm 5251 hunidifier with no manual in the box. what are the buttons on the top for? I don't want to run back to walmart at this time of night and want to use the product. How much water does it use?

If it was that recently, go back to Wally World and ask one of the associates to open a box, copy the manual and then reseal the box, explaining why you need it- most of the time they will do it, if not, ask for the department manager, they will. If all else fails, at least get the 1-800 # so you can contact the mfgr directly (possibly a website off the manual with a direct link to your manual is in the manual itself, more ofteen than not anymore...)

It is the reed switch inside the post that the float runs on, it gets corroded and needs to be replaced. It is an easy and cheep fix if you can get the reed switch. I would also suggest adding silicone as the factory seal is poor before you put it back together.

I am having this exact same problem, have you found a solution?

first break or loosen the water line connection at the humidifier and if you get water then you know it is something else. While the heat is running and main blower is also running, turn the humidistat from low to high; if you hear a click in the solenoid valve (where you checked the water) then you know it has power and the humidistat works. anything deyond that call a good contractor.

http://www.kaz.com/kaz/support/manual/?ProductManualAction=renderProductManualById&ProductManualId=285ef863f85db2982e6f095560687917

Sounds as if you feel the problem is the saddle valve. Check to see if water is available at the humidifier. Close the saddle valve, disconnect the water line at the humidifier side, then slowly turn the saddle valve back on. If you never see water, then correct the saddle valve. You can get details here: http://www.naturalhandyman.com/iip/infxtra/infsad.html#1
If you are getting water, but dont think that the unit is operating try sending 24VAC directly to the hunidifier and see if it operates, bypass the humidistat etc.

Same problem — junk.  Will return it to Sears (Costco was out).

I had the same problem and thought the solenoid valve was bad and was about to spend $80 for a new one. Until I took the short pipe (between the solenoid valve and humidifier) off and found that the orifice was plugged.  I used a sewing pin and cleared out the hole.  Problem solved.  I usually have to clean the orifice in the fall when I turn the heat on for the first time.

here is the link to the manual for the w7 - they suggest a replacement wick filter would solve the problem due to bacteria or mineral build up - i would expect this to solve your problem as the only way these wicks can not soak up the water to the top is if they are clogged or the tank is empty. try the cleaning routine on page 9 first - might be enough but the wicks probably will need replacing soon anyway. http://www.bionaire.com/manuals/W7_English.pdf Hope this helps :)

If the troubleshooting guide that Kimi submitted here http://www.fixya.com/ThreadView.aspx?thid=101224&prdid=126410 Did you no good, i suggest you take the Humidifier to be serviced, or back to the shop if you're still under warranty. I dont think there's any more to do without professional equipment and knowledge. But if you can, do try to follow his suggestions. Good luck