Patent Publication Number: US-10782038-B2

Title: Fan coil apparatus including a humidification unit and a humidification unit

Description:
FIELD 
     This application relates to fan coil apparatus including a humidification unit and humidification units. 
     BACKGROUND 
     A fan coil apparatus is a component part of many residential, commercial, and industrial heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, which provide heated air to a room in which they are installed or to multiple rooms. A fan coils comprises a heating and/or cooling heat exchanger and a fan. Air to be heated or cooled is introduced into the heat exchanger and cooled or heated by ambient air that is to be exhausted from the room. The fan coil apparatus may be controlled automatically by a thermostat which may activate the fan coil apparatus as required to maintain a set air temperature in the room. 
     SUMMARY 
     This summary is intended to introduce the reader to the more detailed description that follows and not to limit or define any claimed or as yet unclaimed invention. One or more inventions may reside in any combination or sub-combination of the elements or process steps disclosed in any part of this document including its claims and figures. 
     In accordance with one broad aspect of the teachings described herein, which may be used alone or in combination with any other aspect, there is provided a water recovery system for a fan coil assembly which is preferably located in the air exit plenum or passage of a fan coil assembly. The water recovery system comprises a member or members that retain water droplets, which may be micro water droplets and optionally collects some or substantially all or all of the droplets that are not evaporated by air passing through the fan coil assembly. 
     In accordance with this aspect, there is provided a fan coil apparatus comprising a humidification unit, the humidification unit comprising:
         (a) a humidification unit water droplet outlet;   (b) an air permeable water retaining member positioned in an air flow path downstream from a heating zone and downstream from the humidification unit water droplet outlet;   (c) a water impermeable container positioned below the air permeable water retaining member, the water impermeable container having a drain outlet; and,   (d) a drain conduit connected in fluid flow communication with the drain outlet.       

     In some embodiments, the humidification unit may produce a water mist wherein the water mist enters an air flow stream via the humidification unit water droplet outlet. 
     In some embodiments, the humidification unit may comprise an ultrasonic humidifier such as a nebulizer. 
     In some embodiments, the fan coil apparatus may further comprise an air outlet plenum and the humidification unit is located in the plenum. 
     In some embodiments, the air permeable water retaining member may have a length in a direction transverse to a direction of air flow through the air permeable water retaining member and the humidification unit comprises a mist distributor generally extending in the transverse direction. 
     In some embodiments, the drain conduit may be connected in fluid flow communication with a drain. 
     In some embodiments, the humidification unit may further comprise a water mist production member and the drain conduit may be connected in fluid flow communication with the humidification unit at a location upstream of the water mist production member. 
     In some embodiments, the water mist production member may comprise an ultrasonic humidifier and a water filter upstream of the ultrasonic humidifier and the drain conduit may be connected in fluid flow communication with the humidification unit upstream of the water filter. 
     In some embodiments, the drain conduit may be connected in fluid flow communication with the humidification unit via a venturi. 
     In some embodiments, the location upstream of the water mist production member may be positioned below the water impermeable container whereby water drains from the water impermeable container through the drain conduit under the influence of gravity. 
     In some embodiments, the drain conduit may be connected in fluid flow communication with a water reservoir of the humidification unit. 
     In some embodiments, the air permeable water retaining member may be seated on the water impermeable container. 
     In some embodiments, the air permeable water retaining member may be removably receivable from the container. 
     In accordance with this aspect, there is also provided a humidification unit for a fan coil apparatus, the humidification unit comprising:
         (a) a humidification unit water droplet outlet;   (b) an air permeable water retaining member positioned in an air flow path downstream from a heating zone and downstream from the humidification unit water droplet outlet;   (c) a water impermeable container positioned below the air permeable water retaining member, the water impermeable container having a drain outlet; and,   (d) a drain conduit connected in fluid flow communication with the drain outlet.       

     In some embodiments, the humidification unit may produce a water mist wherein the water mist enters an air flow stream via the humidification unit water droplet outlet. 
     In some embodiments, the humidification unit may comprise an ultrasonic humidifier such as a nebulizer. 
     In some embodiments, the air permeable water retaining member may have a length in a direction transverse to a direction of air flow through the air permeable water retaining member and the humidification unit comprises a mist distributor generally extending in the transverse direction. 
     In some embodiments, the humidification unit may further comprise a water mist production member and the drain conduit may be connected in fluid flow communication with the humidification unit at a location upstream of the water mist production member. 
     In some embodiments, the water mist production member may comprise an ultrasonic humidifier and a water filter upstream of the ultrasonic humidifier and the drain conduit may be connected in fluid flow communication with the humidification unit upstream of the water filter. 
     In some embodiments, the drain conduit may be connected in fluid flow communication with the humidification unit via a venturi. 
     In some embodiments, the location upstream of the water mist production member may be positioned below the water impermeable container whereby water drains from the water impermeable container through the drain conduit under the influence of gravity. 
     In some embodiments, the drain conduit may be connected in fluid flow communication with a water reservoir of the humidification unit. 
     In accordance with a second aspect of this disclosure, which may be used alone or in combination with any other aspect, there is provided a mist distributor which is configured to distribute the water droplets, which are preferably micro water droplets such as those produced by an ultrasonic humidifier, across part or all of an air flow path and optionally to collect water droplets that are not entrained or evaporated into the air stream. 
     In accordance with this second aspect, there is provided a fan coil comprising a humidification unit, the humidification unit comprising:
         (a) a water mist distribution tube having a plurality of outlets;   (b) a water impermeable container positioned below the water mist distribution tube, the water impermeable container having a drain outlet; and,   (c) a drain conduit connected in fluid flow communication with the drain outlet.       

     In some embodiments, the humidification unit may produce a water mist wherein the water mist enters an air flow stream via the plurality of outlets. 
     In some embodiments, the humidification unit may comprise an ultrasonic humidifier such as a nebulizer. 
     In some embodiments, the water mist distribution tube may be positioned in an air flow conduit, the air flow conduit may have a length in a direction transverse to a direction of air flow through the air flow conduit and the water mist distribution tube may extend at least substantially along the length of the air flow conduit. 
     In some embodiments, the water mist distribution tube may extend generally transverse to the direction of air flow through the air flow conduit. 
     In some embodiments, the water mist distribution tube may be a longitudinally extending tube having first and second opposed ends wherein the water mist distribution tube may extend upwardly from the first end to the second end. In some embodiments, the first end may comprise a water mist inlet end and/or the second end may comprise a water mist inlet end. 
     In some embodiments, the water mist distribution tube may be a longitudinally extending tube having first and second opposed ends wherein a central portion of the water mist distribution tube may be elevated with respect to the first and second ends. 
     In some embodiments, the drain conduit may be connected in fluid flow communication with a drain. 
     In some embodiments, the humidification unit may further comprise a water mist production member and the drain conduit may be connected in fluid flow communication with the humidification unit at a location upstream of the water mist production member. 
     In some embodiments, the water mist production member may comprise an ultrasonic humidifier and a water filter upstream of the ultrasonic humidifier and the drain conduit may be connected in fluid flow communication with the humidification unit upstream of the water filter. 
     In some embodiments, the drain conduit may be connected in fluid flow communication with the humidification unit via a venturi. 
     In some embodiments, the location upstream of the water mist production member may be positioned below the water impermeable container whereby water drains from the water impermeable container through the drain conduit under the influence of gravity. 
     In some embodiments, the drain conduit may be connected in fluid flow communication with a water reservoir of the humidification unit. 
     In accordance with this second aspect, there is also provided a humidification unit for a fan coil, the humidification unit comprising:
         (a) a water mist distribution tube having a plurality of outlets;   (b) a water impermeable container positioned below the water mist distribution tube, the water impermeable container having a drain outlet; and,   (c) a drain conduit connected in fluid flow communication with the drain outlet.       

     In some embodiments, the humidification unit may produce a water mist wherein the water mist enters an air flow stream via the plurality of outlets. 
     In some embodiments, the humidification unit may comprise an ultrasonic humidifier such as a nebulizer. 
     In some embodiments, the humidification unit may further comprise a water mist production member and the drain conduit may be connected in fluid flow communication with the humidification unit at a location upstream of the water mist production member. 
     In some embodiments, the water mist production member may comprise an ultrasonic humidifier and a water filter upstream of the ultrasonic humidifier and the drain conduit may be connected in fluid flow communication with the humidification unit upstream of the water filter. 
     In some embodiments, the drain conduit may be connected in fluid flow communication with the humidification unit via a venturi. 
     In some embodiments, the location upstream of the water mist production member may be positioned below the water impermeable container whereby water drains from the water impermeable container through the drain conduit under the influence of gravity. 
     In some embodiments, the drain conduit may be connected in fluid flow communication with a water reservoir of the humidification unit. 
     In accordance with a third aspect of this disclosure, which may be used alone or in combination with any other aspect, there is provided an air inlet for a humidification unit for a fan coil assembly which uses the blower of the fan coil to provide the air flow across a source of moisture, such as an ultrasonic humidification member. The inlet may be in the form of a scoop or channel that extends into an air flow path, preferably upstream of a heating unit, and guides the air flow into a chamber and across a source of moisture. 
     In accordance with this third aspect, there is provided a fan coil apparatus comprising a humidification unit, the humidification unit comprising:
         (a) a water mist production member including a chamber wherein, in operation, a water mist produced by the water mist production member is present in the chamber; and,   (b) an air flow path extending from an air inlet to an air outlet and passing through the chamber, wherein air passing through the air flow path draws water mist from the chamber and out the air outlet, wherein the air inlet comprises a scoop positioned in a first portion of an air flow path of the fan coil apparatus.       

     In some embodiments, the humidification unit may comprise an ultrasonic humidifier such as a nebulizer. 
     In some embodiments, the ultrasonic humidifier may be provided in a water tank and the air outlet is provided in an upper portion of the water tank. 
     In some embodiments, the fan coil apparatus may further comprise a water reservoir upstream of the water tank. 
     In some embodiments, the fan coil apparatus may further comprise a water filter upstream of the water reservoir. 
     In some embodiments, the water filter may be selectively connectable in flow communication with a supply of water by an openable valve, wherein the valve is openable when a water level in the water reservoir is low. 
     In some embodiments, the water reservoir may be selectively connectable in flow communication with a supply of water by an openable valve, wherein the valve is openable when a water level in the water reservoir is low. 
     In some embodiments, the water reservoir may comprise a float switch that is operatively connectable to the openable valve. 
     In some embodiments, the water reservoir may be in flow communication with the water tank by gravity feed. 
     In some embodiments, the air outlet may comprise a plurality of outlets provided in a water mist distribution tube. 
     In some embodiments, the water mist distribution tube may be provided in a second portion of air flow path of the fan coil apparatus downstream of a location of the scoop, the second portion of air flow path of the fan coil apparatus may have a length in a direction transverse to a direction of air flow therethrough and the water mist distribution tube may extend at least substantially along the length of the second portion of the air flow path. 
     In some embodiments, the water mist distribution tube may extend generally transverse to the direction of air flow through the second portion. 
     In accordance with this third aspect, there is also provided a humidification unit for a fan coil apparatus, the humidification unit comprising:
         (a) a water mist production member including a chamber wherein, in operation, a water mist produced by the water mist production member is present in the chamber; and,   (b) an air flow path extending from an air inlet to an air outlet and passing through the chamber, wherein air passing through the air flow path draws water mist from the chamber and out the air outlet, wherein the air inlet comprises a scoop positionable in a first portion of an air flow path of a fan coil apparatus.       

     In some embodiments, the humidification unit may comprise an ultrasonic humidifier such as a nebulizer. 
     In some embodiments, the ultrasonic humidifier may be provided in a water tank and the air outlet is provided in an upper portion of the water tank. 
     In some embodiments, the fan coil apparatus may further comprise a water reservoir upstream of the water tank. 
     In some embodiments, the fan coil apparatus may further comprise a water filter upstream of the water reservoir. 
     In some embodiments, the water filter may be selectively connectable in flow communication with a supply of water by an openable valve, wherein the valve is openable when a water level in the water reservoir is low. 
     In some embodiments, the water reservoir may be selectively connectable in flow communication with a supply of water by an openable valve, wherein the valve is openable when a water level in the water reservoir is low. 
     In some embodiments, the water reservoir may comprise a float switch that is operatively connectable to the openable valve. 
     In some embodiments, the water reservoir may be in flow communication with the water tank by gravity feed. 
     In accordance with a fourth aspect of this disclosure, which may be used alone or in combination with any other aspect, there is provided a safety control system which shuts of water flow to the humidification unit of a fan coil assembly and optionally, water flow to the fan coil assembly. The safety control system monitors the water level in one or more leak reservoirs and may shut off an inlet valve if a high water level condition occurs. 
     In accordance with this fourth aspect, there is provided a fan coil comprising a humidification unit, the humidification unit comprising:
         (a) an inner container comprising a water supply for a water mist production member and an inner container water level detector, the inner container water level detector sensing a high water level in the inner container when a water level in the inner container is at a high water level position;   (b) an outer container comprising a reservoir and an outer container water level detector, wherein the outer container is positioned to receive water which leaks from the inner container, the outer container water level detector sensing a high water level in the outer container when a water level in the outer container is at a high water level position;   (c) a water supply conduit connectable to a source of water and in fluid flow communication with the inner container; and,   (d) a shut off valve provided in the water supply conduit, the shut off valve operable between an open position and a closed position,
 
wherein the shut off valve is in the closed position when the inner container water level detector senses a high water level in the inner container or when the outer container water level detector senses a high water level in the outer container.
       

     In some embodiments, the inner container may be positioned to overlie at least a portion of an open interior of the outer container. 
     In some embodiments, the outer container may have an inner chamber and the inner container may be at least partially nested in the outer container. 
     In some embodiments, the inner container water level detector may also sense a low water level in the inner container when a water level in the inner container is at a low water level position and the shut off valve may be in the closed position when the outer container water level detector senses a high water level in the outer container and when the inner container water level detector senses a low water level in the inner container. 
     In some embodiments, the outer container water level detector may also sense a low water level in the outer container when a water level in the outer container is at a low water level position and the shut off valve may be in the closed position when the inner container water level detector senses a high water level in the inner container and when the outer container water level detector senses a low water level in the outer container. 
     In some embodiments, the shut off valve may comprise a solenoid. 
     In some embodiments, at least one of the water level detectors may comprise a float switch. 
     In some embodiments, the inner container water level detector and the outer container water level detector may each comprise a float switch. 
     In some embodiments, the outer container may further comprise a drain. 
     In some embodiments, the water supply of the inner container may comprise a water mist production member chamber and a water reservoir chamber wherein the inner container water level detector is provided in the water mist production member chamber. 
     In some embodiments, the fan coil may further comprise a separating wall provided between the water mist production member chamber and the water reservoir chamber and the water reservoir chamber may be in flow communication with the water mist production member chamber. 
     In some embodiments, a fluid flow port may be provided in a lower portion of the separating wall. 
     In some embodiments, the fluid flow port may be positioned above an upper end of the water mist production member. 
     In accordance with this fourth aspect, there is also provided a humidification unit for a fan coil, the humidification unit comprising:
         (a) an inner container comprising a water supply for a water mist production member and an inner container water level detector, the inner container water level detector sensing a high water level in the inner container when a water level in the inner container is at a high water level position;   (b) an outer container comprising a reservoir and an outer container water level detector, wherein the outer container is positioned to receive water which leaks from the inner container, the outer container water level detector sensing a high water level in the outer container when a water level in the outer container is at a high water level position;   (c) a water supply conduit connectable to a source of water and in fluid flow communication with the inner container; and,   (d) a shut off valve provided in the water supply conduit, the shut off valve operable between an open position and a closed position,
 
wherein the shut off valve is in the closed position when the inner container water level detector senses a high water level in the inner container or when the outer container water level detector senses a high water level in the outer container.
       

     In some embodiments, the inner container may be positioned to overlie at least a portion of an open interior of the outer container. 
     In some embodiments, the inner container water level detector may also sense a low water level in the inner container when a water level in the inner container is at a low water level position and the shut off valve may be in the closed position when the outer container water level detector senses a high water level in the outer container and when the inner container water level detector senses a low water level in the inner container. 
     In some embodiments, the outer container water level detector may also sense a low water level in the outer container when a water level in the outer container is at a low water level position and the shut off valve may be in the closed position when the inner container water level detector senses a high water level in the inner container and when the outer container water level detector senses a low water level in the outer container. 
     In some embodiments, at least one of the water level detectors may comprise a float switch. 
     In some embodiments, the water supply of the inner container may comprise a water mist production member chamber and a water reservoir chamber wherein the inner container water level detector is provided in the water mist production member chamber. 
     In some embodiments, the humidification unit may further comprise a separating wall provided between the water mist production member chamber and the water reservoir chamber and the water reservoir chamber is in flow communication with the water mist production member chamber. 
     In some embodiments, a fluid flow port may be provided in a lower portion of the separating wall. 
     In some embodiments, the fluid flow port may be positioned above an upper end of the water mist production member. 
     In accordance with a fifth aspect of this disclosure, which may be used alone or in combination with any other aspect, there is provided a leak reservoir system for a water filter for a humidifier. In accordance with this embodiment, a water recovery system comprises a member or members which collect some or substantially all or all of the water that may leak from a water filter assembly of a fan coil assembly. 
     In accordance with this fifth aspect, there is provided a fan coil comprising a humidification unit, the humidification unit comprising:
         (a) a water filter comprising an inlet connectable to a source of water and a filtered water outlet in flow communication with a downstream portion of the humidification unit;   (b) a leak container comprising a reservoir and a leak container water level detector, wherein the leak container is positioned to receive water which leaks from the water filter or flow conduits leading to or from the water filter, the leak container water level detector sensing a high water level in the leak container when a water level in the leak container is at a high water level position; and,   (c) a shut off valve provided in the water supply conduit, the shut off valve operable between an open position and a closed position,
 
wherein the shut off valve is in the closed position when the leak container water level detector senses a high water level in the leak container.
       

     In some embodiments, the water filter may be positioned to overlie at least a portion of an open interior of the leak container. 
     In some embodiments, the leak container may have an inner chamber and the water filter may be at least partially nested in the outer container. 
     In some embodiments, the leak container water level detector may also sense a low water level in the leak container when a water level in the leak container is at a low water level position and the shut off valve may be in the open position when the leak container water level detector senses a low water level in the inner container. 
     In some embodiments, the shut off valve may comprise a solenoid. 
     In some embodiments, the water level detector may comprise a float switch. 
     In some embodiments, the leak container may further comprise a drain. 
     In some embodiments, the humidification unit may further comprise:
         (a) an inner container comprising a water supply for a water mist production member and an inner container water level detector, the inner container water level detector sensing a high water level in the inner container when a water level in the inner container is at a high water level position, wherein the water supply comprises the downstream portion of the humidification unit; and,   (b) an outer container comprising a reservoir and an outer container water level detector, wherein the outer container is positioned to receive water which leaks from the inner container, the outer container water level detector sensing a high water level in the outer container when a water level in the outer container is at a high water level position;
 
wherein the shut off valve is also in the closed position when the inner container water level detector senses a high water level in the inner container or when the outer container water level detector senses a high water level in the outer container.
       

     In some embodiments:
         (a) the inner container water level detector may also sense a low water level in the inner container when a water level in the inner container is at a low water level position;   (b) the leak container water level detector may also sense a low water level in the leak container when a water level in the leak container is at a low water level position; and,   (c) the shut off valve may be in the closed position when the outer container water level detector senses a high water level in the outer container and when the inner container water level detector senses a low water level in the inner container and when the leak container water level detector senses a low water level in the leak container.       

     In some embodiments:
         (a) the outer container water level detector may also sense a low water level in the outer container when a water level in the outer container is at a low water level position;   (b) the leak container water level detector may also sense a low water level in the leak container when a water level in the leak container is at a low water level position; and,   (c) the shut off valve may be in the closed position when the inner container water level detector senses a high water level in the inner container and when the outer container water level detector senses a low water level in the outer container and when the leak container water level detector senses a low water level in the leak container.       

     In accordance with this fifth aspect, there may also be provided a humidification unit for a fan coil, the humidification unit comprising:
         (a) a water filter comprising an inlet connectable to a source of water and a filtered water outlet in flow communication with a downstream portion of the humidification unit;   (b) a leak container comprising a reservoir and a leak container water level detector, wherein the leak container is positioned to receive water which leaks from the water filter or flow conduits leading to or from the water filter, the leak container water level detector senses a high water level in the leak container when a water level in the leak container is at a high water level position; and,   (c) a shut off valve provided in the water supply conduit, the shut off valve operable between an open position and a closed position,
 
wherein the shut off valve is in the closed position when the leak container water level detector senses a high water level in the inner container.
       

     In some embodiments, the water filter may be positioned to overlie at least a portion of an open interior of the leak container. 
     In some embodiments, the leak container may have an inner chamber and the water filter is at least partially nested in the outer container. 
     In some embodiments, the leak container water level detector may also sense a low water level in the leak container when a water level in the leak container is at a low water level position and the shut off valve may be in the open position when the leak container water level detector senses a low water level in the inner container. 
     In some embodiments, the shut off valve may comprise a solenoid. 
     In some embodiments, the water level detector may comprise a float switch. 
     In some embodiments, the leak container may further comprise a drain. 
     In some embodiments, the humidification unit may further comprise:
         (a) an inner container comprising a water supply for a water mist production member and an inner container water level detector, the inner container water level detector senses a high water level in the inner container when a water level in the inner container is at a high water level position, wherein the water supply comprises the downstream portion of the humidification unit; and,   (b) an outer container comprising a reservoir and an outer container water level detector, wherein the outer container is positioned to receive water which leaks from the inner container, the outer container water level detector senses a high water level in the outer container when a water level in the outer container is at a high water level position;
 
wherein the shut off valve is also in the closed position when the inner container water level detector senses a high water level in the inner container or when the outer container water level detector senses a high water level in the outer container.
       

     In some embodiments:
         (a) the inner container water level detector may also sense a low water level in the inner container when a water level in the inner container is at a low water level position;   (b) the leak container water level detector may also sense a low water level in the leak container when a water level in the leak container is at a low water level position; and,   (c) the shut off valve may be in the closed position when the outer container water level detector senses a high water level in the outer container and when the inner container water level detector senses a low water level in the inner container and when the leak container water level detector senses a low water level in the leak container.       

     In some embodiments:
         (a) the outer container water level detector may also sense a low water level in the outer container when a water level in the outer container is at a low water level position;   (b) the leak container water level detector may also sense a low water level in the leak container when a water level in the leak container is at a low water level position; and,   (c) the shut off valve may be in the closed position when the inner container water level detector senses a high water level in the inner container and when the outer container water level detector senses a low water level in the outer container and when the leak container water level detector senses a low water level in the leak container.       

     In accordance with a sixth aspect of this disclosure, which may be used alone or in combination with any other aspect, there is provided a humidifier treatment system to at least partially sterilize and preferably substantially sterilize or sterilize part or all of the humidification system. 
     In accordance with this sixth aspect, there is provided a fan coil apparatus comprising:
         (a) an air flow path extending from a heating zone to a fan coil air outlet and including a humidification section;   (b) a humidification unit comprising a humidification unit water droplet outlet and an air permeable water retaining member, wherein the air permeable water retaining member and the humidification unit water droplet outlet are provided in the humidification section and the air permeable water retaining member is positioned downstream from the humidification unit water droplet outlet; and,   (c) a treatment applicator providing a disinfecting agent upstream from an air outlet of the humidification section.       

     In some embodiments, the disinfecting agent may comprise one or more of ozone, UV light and hydrogen peroxide. 
     In some embodiments, the disinfecting agent may comprise ozone and the fan coil further may comprise an ozone destructor material positioned upstream from an air outlet of the fan coil. 
     In some embodiments, the humidification unit may be located in an air exit plenum of the fan coil. 
     In some embodiments, the disinfecting agent may be provided in the air exit plenum. 
     In some embodiments, the disinfecting agent may comprise one or more of ozone and hydrogen peroxide and the disinfecting agent may be introduced into the air exit plenum. 
     In some embodiments, the disinfecting agent may comprise ozone and the fan coil may further comprise an ozone destructor material positioned downstream from the air permeable water retaining member. 
     In some embodiments, the disinfecting agent may comprise a UV light source and the UV light source may be located in the air exit plenum. 
     In accordance with this sixth embodiment, there is also provided a humidification unit for a fan coil apparatus, the humidification unit comprising:
         (a) a humidification unit water droplet outlet;   (b) an air permeable water retaining member positioned downstream from the humidification unit water droplet outlet; and,   (c) a treatment applicator providing a disinfecting agent upstream from the air permeable water retaining member.       

     In some embodiments, the disinfecting agent may comprise one or more of ozone, UV light and hydrogen peroxide. 
     In some embodiments, the disinfecting agent may comprise ozone and the humidification unit may further comprise an ozone destructor material positioned upstream from an air outlet of the fan coil. 
     In some embodiments, the disinfecting agent may comprise one or more of ozone and hydrogen peroxide and the disinfecting agent may be introduced into the humidification unit upstream from the air permeable water retaining member. 
     In some embodiments, the disinfecting agent may comprise ozone and the humidification unit may further comprise an ozone destructor material positioned downstream from the air permeable water retaining member. 
     14. In some embodiments, the disinfecting agent may comprise a UV light source and the UV light source may be located between the humidification unit water droplet outlet and the air permeable water retaining member.\ 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The drawings included herewith are for illustrating various examples of articles, methods, and apparatuses of the teaching of the present specification and are not intended to limit the scope of what is taught in any way. 
         FIG. 1  is a front perspective view of a fan coil apparatus in accordance with an embodiment; 
         FIG. 2  is a rear perspective view of the fan coil apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a front perspective view of the fan coil apparatus of  FIG. 1  with its front face removed; 
         FIG. 4  is a side perspective view of the fan coil apparatus of  FIG. 1  with its front face removed; 
         FIG. 5  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  5 - 5  in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a front elevation view of the fan coil apparatus of  FIG. 1  with its front face removed; 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a misting portion of a humidification unit; 
         FIG. 8  is an enlargement of region  8  in  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of the misting portion sectioned along line  9 - 9  in  FIG. 8 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of the missing portion sectioned along line  10 - 10  in  FIG. 8 ; 
         FIG. 11  is a schematic drawing of a fan coil apparatus in accordance with another embodiment; 
         FIG. 12  is a schematic drawing of a fan coil apparatus in accordance with another embodiment; 
         FIG. 13  is a schematic drawing of a fan coil apparatus in accordance with another embodiment; 
         FIG. 14  is a schematic drawing of a fan coil apparatus in accordance with another embodiment; 
         FIG. 15  is a schematic drawing of a fan coil apparatus in accordance with another embodiment; 
         FIG. 16  is a schematic drawing of a fan coil apparatus in accordance with another embodiment; 
         FIG. 17  is a front elevation view of a fan coil apparatus with its front face removed in accordance with another embodiment; 
         FIG. 18  is a front elevation view of a fan coil apparatus with its front face removed in accordance with another embodiment; 
         FIG. 19  is an enlarged view of region  19 - 19  in  FIG. 5 ; 
         FIG. 20  is an exploded view of a filter portion of the humidification unit; 
         FIG. 21  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  5 - 5  in  FIG. 1  in accordance with another embodiment; 
         FIG. 22  is a schematic drawing of a fan coil apparatus in accordance with another embodiment; 
         FIG. 23  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  23 - 23  in  FIG. 8  with a leak water level detector sensing a lower water level; 
         FIG. 24  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  23 - 23  in  FIG. 8  with the leak water level detector sensing a high water level; 
         FIG. 25  is an exploded view of the misting portion; 
         FIG. 26  is another exploded view of the misting portion; 
         FIG. 27  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  27 - 27  in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 28  is a perspective view of the fan coil apparatus of  FIG. 1  with part of its housing removed; 
         FIG. 29  is a perspective view of the fan coil apparatus of  FIG. 1 , with an air permeable water retaining member in an exploded position, and an air heating device removed; 
         FIG. 30  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  27 - 27  in  FIG. 1  in accordance with another embodiment; and, 
         FIG. 31  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  27 - 27  in  FIG. 1  in accordance with another embodiment. 
         FIG. 32  is a schematic drawing of a power circuit in accordance with another embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS 
     Numerous embodiments are described in this application, and are presented for illustrative purposes only. The described embodiments are not intended to be limiting in any sense. The invention is widely applicable to numerous embodiments, as is readily apparent from the disclosure herein. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention may be practiced with modification and alteration without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. Although particular features of the present invention may be described with reference to one or more particular embodiments or figures, it should be understood that such features are not limited to usage in the one or more particular embodiments or figures with reference to which they are described. 
     The terms “an embodiment,” “embodiment,” “embodiments,” “the embodiment,” “the embodiments,” “one or more embodiments,” “some embodiments,” and “one embodiment” mean “one or more (but not all) embodiments of the present invention(s),” unless expressly specified otherwise. 
     The terms “including,” “comprising” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to,” unless expressly specified otherwise. A listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “a,” “an” and “the” mean “one or more,” unless expressly specified otherwise. 
     As used herein and in the claims, two or more parts are said to be “coupled”, “connected”, “attached”, or “fastened” where the parts are joined or operate together either directly or indirectly (i.e., through one or more intermediate parts), so long as a link occurs. As used herein and in the claims, two or more parts are said to be “directly coupled”, “directly connected”, “directly attached”, or “directly fastened” where the parts are connected in physical contact with each other. As used herein, two or more parts are said to be “rigidly coupled”, “rigidly connected”, “rigidly attached”, or “rigidly fastened” where the parts are coupled so as to move as one while maintaining a constant orientation relative to each other. None of the terms “coupled”, “connected”, “attached”, and “fastened” distinguish the manner in which two or more parts are joined together. 
     As used herein and in the claims, a first element is said to be “received” in a second element where at least a portion of the first element is received in the second element unless specifically stated otherwise. 
     Structure of a Fan Coil Apparatus 
     The following is a general description of a fan coil having a humidification unit and other features set out herein. 
       FIGS. 1 and 2  show a fan coil apparatus  100 , in accordance with an embodiment. In the illustrated example, fan coil apparatus  100  includes a housing  104  including a front face  108  defining an air inlet  112  and an air outlet  116 . The fan coil apparatus  100  is operable to receive air from air inlet  112 , heat or cool the air introduced from inlet  112  and, as selected, humidify the air, and discharge the treated air through air outlet  116  into a room. 
     The example shown includes a housing  104  that is substantially cuboid (i.e. box-shaped). An advantage of this design is that it provides an efficient and convenient form factor for applications where the fan coil apparatus  100  is recessed into a flat wall. However, in alternative embodiments, fan coil housing  104  can have any size and shape best suited for the intended application. 
     In the example shown, the fan coil inlet and outlet  112  and  116  are formed in the front face  108  of the fan coil housing  104 . This design provides an efficient self-contained apparatus  100  that can be easily accommodated into a room design. However, in alternative embodiments, the fan coil inlet  112 , the fan coil outlet  116 , or both may be located remotely from the fan coil housing  104 . For example, the fan coil outlet  116  may be fluidly connected to the fan coil housing  104  by one or more airflow conduits to allow the fan coil apparatus  100  to service one or more rooms remote from the fan coil apparatus  100  (e.g., via ducting built into a wall or ceiling of a building). In some embodiments, fan coil apparatus  100  may include a plurality of fan coil air inlets  112 , a plurality of fan coil air outlets  116 , or a plurality of fan coil air inlets  112  and a plurality of fan coil air outlets  116 . For example, fan coil apparatus  100  may include a plurality of fan coil air outlets  116  directed to different rooms. This allows one fan coil apparatus  100  to service several rooms. 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , an air regulating device  120  is shown connected to fan coil apparatus  100 . The air regulating device  120  may operate as a thermostat and/or a hygrostat, capable of sensing air temperature and/or air humidity, and signaling the fan coil apparatus  100  to generate heated, cooled and/or humidified air in order to maintain the room air at a set temperature and/or humidity. For example, the air regulating device  120  may be programmed to maintain the room air at 21° C. and 40% relative humidity for comfortable human occupancy. Air regulating device  120  can be any thermostat and/or hygrostat device known in the art. In the illustrated embodiment, air regulating device  120  includes inputs  124  for user interaction (e.g. buttons to enter a set air temperature and relative humidity), and an optional display  128  (e.g. to display the current air temperature and relative humidity). 
     Reference is now made to  FIGS. 3-4  which shows fan coil apparatus  100  with front face  108  ( FIG. 1 ) removed so that some of the internal components are visible. It will be appreciated that the fan coil may be of any design known in the art and may use any flow path, and any heating and air conditioning units known in the heating and cooling arts. As shown, fan coil apparatus  100  includes an air blower  132  and an air flow path  136  which extends from air blower outlet  140  to fan coil air outlet  116 . In the illustrated example, the air flow path  136  includes a heating zone  148  between an upstream first portion  144  of fan coil air flow path  136 , and a downstream second portion  152  of fan coil air flow path  136 . The second portion  152  of the fan coil air flow path  136  may include an air exit plenum  156  positioned upstream of fan coil air outlet  116 . 
     Heating zone  148  can include any air heating device  160  capable of heating the air moving downstream across the heating zone  148 . For example, the air heating device  156  can include a heat exchanger as shown, or resistive heating elements, a natural gas burner or the like. In some embodiments, the air heating device  160  includes a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) or an energy recovery ventilator (ERV) that receives heat, or heat and humidity, from exhausted room air for use, e.g., in treating fresh air introduced into the unit from the outside. 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , fan coil apparatus  100  is shown including a humidification unit  164  for humidify air in the fan coil air flow path  136  so that humidified air is discharged from fan coil air outlet  116 . When air is heated in heating zone  148 , the relative humidity of the air may decrease. The humidity added by humidification unit  164  can help to maintain or increase the relative humidity of the air after heating, such as to attain or maintain a set humidity programmed into air regulating device  120 . 
     Structure of a Humidification Unit 
     The following is a general description of a humidification unit that may be used in any fan coil apparatus. The following description contains various features which may be used individually or in any combination or sub-combination. 
     As exemplified in  FIG. 5 , humidification unit  164  includes a misting portion  168 , and an optional controller  172 . The misting portion  168  generates a water mist (e.g. by evaporating or atomizing water), which is exposed to the air flow path  136  in order to humidify the air. The controller  172  directs the activation of misting portion  168 . In some embodiments, controller  172  activates misting portion  168  in response to signals from air regulating device  120 . For example, controller  172  may activate misting portion  168  in response to signals from air regulating device  120  instructing that humidity is required (e.g. to attain or maintain the set air humidity programmed into air regulating device  120 ). In some embodiments, controller  172  may determine not to activate misting portion  168  (e.g. determine to keep misting portion  168  deactivated) unless heating device  160  ( FIG. 3 ) has been activated. For example, controller  172  may determine not to activate misting portion  168  unless signals from air regulating device  120  instruct that both humidity and heat is required. An advantage of this design is that water mist is not generated unless the air flow is to be heated. Heating the air flow may reduce its relative humidity and thereby allow the air flow to better absorb the water mist. This can reduce accumulation of water (e.g., agglomerated water droplets in the water mist) inside the fan coil apparatus  100 . In alternative embodiments, controller  172  may determine to activate misting portion  168  regardless of whether heating device  160  ( FIG. 3 ) is to be activated as well (e.g., if the blower is operating and a sensor detects that the humidity level is below a desired set point). 
     Controller  172  regulates the activation of misting portion  168  by controlling the supply of water and/or power to misting portion  168 . In the illustrated embodiment, misting portion  168  receives water from a water line  176 . Misting portion water line  176  is fluidly coupled to a water supply  180 , such as a municipal water line (e.g., a water line in an apartment or condominium) or a reservoir of water (e.g. water tank) external to fan coil apparatus  100 . A shut-off valve  184  is positioned in the water flow path upstream of misting portion  168  (e.g. on water line  176 , water supply  180 , or between water supply  180  and water line  176 ). The shut-off valve  184  has an open position in which water is allowed to flow past shut-off valve  184  to supply misting portion  168  with water, and a closed position in which shut-off valve  184  prevents the flow of water to misting portion  168 . Controller  172  may be communicatively coupled with shut-off valve  184  to direct the position of shut-off valve  184 . This allows controller  172  to regulate the supply of water to misting portion  168 . Misting portion  168  may run out of water and become unable to generate water mist if the supply of water is stopped. 
     Shutoff valve  184  can be any valve capable of preventing the flow of water to misting portion  168  in response to electrical or mechanical direction from controller  172 . For example, shut-off valve  184  may be an electrical valve (e.g. a solenoid valve), and controller  172  may be communicatively coupled to shut-off valve  184  by electrical line  188 , whereby controller  172  can signal shut-off valve  184  to move to the open or closed position. It will be appreciated that any valve may be used. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 5 , controller  172  may regulate the supply of power to misting portion  168  to control the activation of misting portion  168 . An advantage of this design is that controller  172  can power off misting portion  168  to immediately stop the generation of water mist, even before misting portion  168  runs out of water. Further, shutting off misting portion  168  may prevent damage that may be caused by misting portion  168  operating without any water present. In the illustrated example, misting portion  168  receives electrical power from an electrical line  192 . Misting portion electrical line  192  is electrically coupled to a power supply  196 , such as a municipal electrical grid (e.g., an electrical outlet or circuit breaker in an apartment or condominium), a power generator, or a power storage device (e.g. battery pack). Controller  172  may be positioned in a circuit between misting portion electrical line  192  and power supply  196  to regulate the supply of power from power supply  196  to misting portion  168 . Accordingly, controller  172  may prevent misting portion  168  from receiving power from power supply  196  to deactivate misting portion  168 , and allow misting portion  168  to receive power from power supply  196  to activate misting portion  168 . 
     Alternatively, or in addition to controlling misting portion  168  by regulating the supply of power and/or water to misting portion  168 , controller  172  may send control signals to misting portion  168  instructing misting portion  168  to activate or deactivate. For example, misting portion  168  may be continuously powered and include logic to receive and act upon control signals to start and stop water mist generation. 
     In some embodiments, controller  172  regulates not only the activation of misting portion  168  but also the rate of water mist generation by misting portion  168 . An advantage of this design is that it allows the rate of water mist generation to be tuned to operate more continuously (and energy efficiently) while maintaining a set air humidity. For example, controller  172  may reduce (but not halt) the flow of water or power to misting portion  168  to slow (but not necessarily stop) the rate of water mist generation. Similarly, controller  172  may send control signals to misting portion  168  instructing misting portion  168  to slow (but not necessarily halt) the rate of water mist generation. Misting portion  168  may include logic to receive and act upon such control signals to vary the rate of water mist generation. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 5 , humidification unit  164  may optionally include a filter portion  204 . Filter portion  204  may be positioned upstream of misting portion  168  to filter water supplied to misting portion  168  for impurities such as contaminants and minerals, which can accumulate in the misting portion  168  and compromise the operation of misting unit  168  and/or the air quality discharged from fan coil apparatus  100  if dispersed into the generated water mist. In the illustrated example, filter portion  204  is positioned in the water flow path between water supply  180  and misting portion  168 . Water delivered from water supply  180  flows through filter portion  204  before being received by misting portion  168 . 
       FIGS. 6-8  exemplify a misting portion  168  including an air inlet  208 , a water inlet  212 , and an air outlet  216 . Misting portion air inlet  208  receives air moving downstream in the fan coil air flow path  136 . Misting portion  168  generates water mist from water received through misting portion water inlet  212 . The generated water mist mixes with air received through misting portion air inlet  208 , and then the air and water mist mixture discharges through misting portion air outlet  216  back into the fan coil air flow path  136  to form humidified air that exits through fan coil air outlet  116  into the room. 
     Production of Air Droplets 
     The following is a description of an apparatus for producing droplets of air that may be used by itself or in combination with one or more other features disclosed herein including one or more of an air scoop, a misting portion water impermeable container, mist distributor, a filter portion, a leak detection control system, an air permeable water retaining member and a treatment applicator. 
     In accordance with this embodiment, a water mist production member  232 , may be used to produce a water mist (e.g., fine droplets of water) which may be entrained in an air flow. Any water mist production member  232  suitable for generating water mist may be used. In the illustrated embodiment, water mist production member  232  is an ultrasonic device such as a nebulizer  284 . Ultrasonic humidifier uses a ceramic diaphragm vibrating at an ultrasonic frequency to create water droplets which, when entrained in an air stream, may form a cool fog. The ultrasonic frequency produces an extremely fine mist of water droplets, e.g., about one micron in diameter, that may be quickly evaporated into an air flow. In alternative embodiments, water mist production member  232  may be an evaporator that includes a water absorptive wick exposed to air flow through the misting portion air flow path  236 , or a vaporizer that boils the water to generate steam. 
     It will be appreciated that, in other embodiments, any apparatus which produces water droplets may be used and, in some embodiments, it will be appreciated that any humidification unit may be used. 
     As exemplified in  FIGS. 9-10 , misting portion  168  includes a chamber  220  containing nebulizer  284 . Chamber  220  may be of any design which houses a nebulizer  284  or other water mist production member  232  and which provides an air flow path for water droplets to be entrained in an air flow. 
     As exemplified, chamber  220  includes a water tank  224  positioned below an air plenum  228 . Nebulizer  284  may be positioned anywhere inside water tank  224 . Preferably, nebulizer  284  is positioned at a lower end  288  of water tank  224  so that nebulizer  284  may remain in contact with water in water tank  224 . Nebulizer  284  uses water in the water tank  224  and may cause the water mist to rise into the air plenum  228 . In other designs, the air may travel over the water mist production member  232 . The water tank  224  is in fluid communication with misting portion water inlet  212 . Water tank  224  is resupplied with water from misting portion water inlet  212  as water mist production member  232  consumes water in water tank  224  to generate water mist. 
     As shown, misting portion chamber  220  may include an upper wall  240  opposite a lower wall  244 , and a sidewall  248  extending between the upper wall  240  and lower wall  244 . In the illustrated example, water tank  224  is bordered by chamber sidewall  248  and chamber lower wall  244 , and air plenum  228  is bordered by chamber sidewall  248  and chamber upper wall  240 . 
     Misting portion water inlet  212  may be positioned anywhere that is in fluid communication with water tank  224 . In the illustrated embodiment, misting portion water inlet  212  is positioned above and spaced apart from water tank  224  so that water from water inlet  212  falls by gravity (and water pressure) into water tank  224  below (e.g. across air plenum  228 ). An advantage of this design is that the backpressure in misting portion water line  176  is constant, which makes the flow rate through misting portion water line  176  easily predictable. In contrast, submerging misting portion water inlet  212  in water tank  224  will result in a backpressure in misting portion water line  176  that varies with the water level in water tank  224 . In the illustrated embodiment, misting portion water inlet  212  is positioned in a wall of misting portion chamber  220  that borders air plenum  228 . For example, misting portion water inlet  212  may be positioned in chamber upper wall  240  as shown, or chamber sidewall  248 . 
     In alternative embodiments, misting portion water inlet  212  is positioned within water tank  224 . This can allow the water level in water tank  224  to be determined by measuring the backpressure in misting portion water line  176 . 
     Misting portion  168  includes an air flow path  236  which extends from misting portion air inlet  208  to misting portion air outlet  216 . An air plenum  228  may be positioned in the air flow path  236  between the misting portion air inlet  208  and air outlet  216 . This allows the air traveling across the air plenum  228  to entrain or absorb the generated water mist before discharging through the misting portion air outlet  216 . 
     Returning to  FIG. 6 , misting portion  168  may be positioned anywhere in the fan coil air flow path  136 . In the illustrated example, misting portion  168  includes an air inlet  208  positioned in a first portion  144  of fan coil air flow path  136  that is upstream of heating zone  148 , and an air outlet  216  that discharges the air and water mist mixture downstream of heating zone  148 . An advantage of discharging the air and water mist mixture downstream of heating zone  148  is that the low relative humidity of the heated air allows the water mist to be more efficiently absorbed. As a result, less water mist generation may be required and less water mist may accumulate in the fan coil which may result in rusting of the apparatus or leaking of water from the fan coil apparatus. In turn, the misting portion  168  may consume less power by activating less frequently, activating at a lower power setting, or by including a less powerful water mist production member. Also, less water may be consumed by misting portion  168  because less water is lost. An advantage of positioning misting portion air inlet  208  upstream of heating zone  148  is that cooler air moves through misting portion  168 , which makes microorganisms, mold, and the like less likely to cultivate inside misting portion  168 . 
     Air Scoop 
     The following is a description of an air scoop that may be used by itself or in combination with one or more other features disclosed herein including one or more of a misting portion water impermeable container, mist distributor, a filter portion, a leak detection control system, an air permeable water retaining member and a treatment applicator. 
     Misting portion air inlet  208  may comprise, consist essentially of or consist of an air scoop  252  which diverts air from the fan coil air flow path  136  to misting portion air flow path  236 . An advantage of this design is that air flow through misting portion  168  is driven by the fan coil air blower  132  ( FIG. 3 ), avoiding the need for an additional air moving device to push air through misting portion  168 . A further advantage is that the discharge of the air and water vapor mixture from misting portion  168  relies upon the activation of air blower  132  ( FIG. 3 ). The air and water vapor mixture will not discharge from misting portion  168  and stagnantly collect (and accumulate such as by agglomerating into larger water droplets) in air exit plenum  156  ( FIG. 3 ) if the air blower  132  ( FIG. 3 ) is deactivated. 
     As exemplified in  FIG. 10 , scoop  252  may include an inlet end  256  that faces in an upstream direction  260  of the fan coil air flow path  136 . Scoop  252  may have any configuration suitable for diverting air from fan coil air flow path  136  to misting portion air flow path  236 . It will be appreciated that scoop  252  may face directly towards the air flow or it may be at an angle to the air flow path. In the illustrated embodiment, scoop  252  is formed as a hood that extends away from the rest of misting portion  168  in a direction  264  transverse to the downstream direction  268 . This provides the scoop inlet end  256  with unobstructed exposure to the air flow moving through fan coil air flow path  136 . As shown, scoop  252  may have an upper wall  272  that slopes upwardly in the downstream direction. The sloped upper wall  272  acts to redirect the diverted air into the misting portion chamber  220 . Preferably, scoop  252  is configured without any 90 degree bends so as to reduce back pressure through the misting portion. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 10 , in some embodiments, scoop  252  may further include an optional air flow limiter  276  that limits the maximum air flow diverted by scoop  252  into misting portion air flow path  236 . Air flow limiter  276  prevents excess air velocity through misting portion air flow path  236 , which can result in unwanted air turbulence and sloshing of the water in water tank  224 , which can result in larger water droplets being entrained in the air flow, which may not be absorbed by the air and may therefore fall out and produce rust or a leak. Similarly, air flow limiter  276  prevents high velocity discharge of the air and water mist mixture at misting portion air outlet  216  against the sidewalls of fan coil apparatus  100  ( FIG. 3 ), which can result in unwanted accumulation of water. 
     Air flow limiter  276  may have any configuration suitable for limiting the maximum air flow (e.g. maximum air velocity of air diverted) into scoop  252 . Preferably, air flow limiter  276  acts passively in response to the air flow impinging on scoop  252 . An advantage of this design is that it avoids the need for actuators (e.g. motors), electrical cables, and control devices that may be required by an active air flow limiter. In the illustrated example, air flow limiter  276  comprises a flap that is pivotally (e.g. hingedly) connected at one end to, e.g., the misting unit. Air flow limiter  276  may be movable (e.g. pivotally rotatable) between an open position (shown) and a closed position. In the open position (shown), air flow limiter  276  allows air to enter scoop  252 . In the closed position, air flow limiter  276  may partially or completely obstruct air from entering scoop  252 . As exemplified, air flow limiter  276  has an upstream face  280  oriented such that air flowing air through fan coil air flow path  136  collides with upstream face  280 . The air pressure against air flow limiter upstream face  280  may move the air flow limiter  276  into the closed position when the downstream flow of air through fan coil air flow path  136  exceeds a predetermined flow rate. Accordingly, the air flow limiter may be designed such that it is fully open when air is travelling at a design velocity through air flow path  136 . As air travels at a higher rate, the air flow limiter may partially or fully close scoop  252  thereby limiting air flow into the misting unit. 
     It will be appreciated that, in some embodiments, air flow limiter may be actuated based on, e.g., on an air flow velocity detected by a sensor, and the sensor may send a signal to, e.g., controller  172 , which actuals movement or the air flow limiter. 
     In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that misting portion  168  may include a separate air mover (e.g. blower, not shown). This allows the air flow through misting portion air flow path  236  and fan coil air flow path  136  to be independently controlled. In such an embodiment, a scoop  252  may not be used. 
     Misting Portion Water Impermeable Container 
     The following is a description of misting portion water impermeable container that may be used by itself or in combination with one or more other features disclosed herein including one or more of an air scoop, mist distributor, a filter portion, a leak detection control system, an air permeable water retaining member and a treatment applicator. 
     In accordance with this this feature, a container is positioned to capture water which may leak from tank  224 . Accordingly, as exemplified in  FIG. 10 , in some embodiments misting portion  220  may include an inner container  292  and an outer container  296 . As shown, misting portion chamber  220  may be housed in or defined by misting portion inner container  292 , and misting portion inner container  292  overlies (at least a portion of) an open interior of misting portion outer container  296 . An advantage of this design is that misting portion outer container  296  may collect any water that may leak from misting portion inner container  292  (e.g. if a seal becomes broken). For example, misting portion inner container  292  may be partially and, preferably, substantially or fully nested inside misting portion outer container  296  as shown. 
     As exemplified, misting portion outer container  296  may include a drain  304  that provides an outlet for water collected in misting portion outer container  296 . An advantage of this design is that water leaking from misting portion inner container  292  (e.g. from water tank  224 ) may be redirected through drain  304  to, e.g. a municipal drain, or recirculated back, e.g., into water tank  224 . This prevents the leak water from spilling into the fan coil apparatus  100  and leaking into the fan coil&#39;s surroundings (e.g. inside the wall of a room). In the illustrated example, a drain conduit  308  is connected to outer container drain  304  for directing drain water downstream. 
     As exemplified in  FIG. 5  drain conduit  308  may convey drain water toward a fan coil drain  312 , which leads outside of fan coil apparatus  100 , such as to a municipal drain or outdoors. Alternately, drain water may be recirculated back into misting portion  168  in any manner. As exemplified in  FIG. 11  drain conduit  308  conveys drain water to recirculate back into misting portion  168 . An advantage of this design is that water consumption is reduced by recycling the drain water instead of discarding the drain water (e.g. to a municipal drain). 
     Preferably, drain water is recirculated without any additional pumps. As exemplified in  FIG. 11 , drain conduit  308  directs drain water by gravity downwardly to a venturi device  316  positioned below (i.e. at a lower elevation than) outer container drain  304 . Venturi device  316  includes a venturi pipe  320  having a water supply inlet  324 , a drain water inlet  328 , and an outlet  332 . Water supply inlet  324  is fluidly connected downstream of water supply  180 , drain water inlet  328  is fluidly connected downstream of outer container drain conduit  308 , and venture outlet  332  is fluidly connected upstream of misting portion water inlet  212 . In use, the flow of supply water from water supply inlet  324  across venturi pipe  320  to venturi outlet  332  causes a pressure drop which draws in drain water from drain water inlet  328 . As a result, a mixture of water supply water and drain water discharges from venturi  320  through venturi outlet  332  towards misting portion water inlet  212 . 
     In the example of  FIG. 11 , venturi device  316  is positioned upstream of misting portion  168  and downstream of an optional filter portion  204 .  FIG. 12  shows another example in which venturi device  316  is positioned upstream of an optional filter portion  204  (and therefore upstream of misting portion  168  as well). An advantage of this design is that the drain water may be filtered before returning to misting portion  168 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 13-14 , in some embodiments venturi device  316  includes a filter  336  positioned upstream of venturi pipe drain water inlet  328  (as shown in  FIG. 13 ) or positioned downstream of venturi pipe misting portion outlet  332  (as shown in  FIG. 14 ), or both. An advantage of this design is that the drain water is filtered before return to misting portion  168 . This may be particularly advantageous where humidification unit  164  does not have a filter portion  204  to route the drain water through to filter the drain water. 
     Mist Distributor 
     The following is a description of mist distributor that may be used by itself or in combination with one or more other features disclosed herein including one or more of an air scoop, a misting portion water impermeable container, a filter portion, a leak detection control system, an air permeable water retaining member and a treatment applicator. 
     In accordance with this feature a mist distributor  340  that distributes the generated water mist into the air moving through the fan coil air flow path  136  is provided, preferably at the air outlet of the fan coil assembly (e.g., misting portion air outlet  216 ), which may extend part or all of the way across the air flow path and optionally transverse or generally transverse to the air flow direction. 
     Mist distributor  340  may have any configuration suitable for dispersing the generated water mist into the fan coil air flow path  136 . As exemplified in  FIGS. 6 and 7 , mist distributor  340  comprises a water mist distribution tube  344 . As exemplified, misting portion air outlet  216  may also include an air outlet conduit  346  upstream of mist distributor  340  to allow water mist distribution tube  344  to be remotely positioned in the air exit plenum  156  downstream of the heating zone  148 . 
     Water mist distribution tube  344  may be of various configurations. As exemplified in  FIG. 7 , water mist distribution tube  344  is a longitudinally extending tube having a length  348  extending from a first end  352  to a second end  356 . The air and water mist mixture may enter the water mist distribution tube  344  at either end, e.g., first end  352  as exemplified. 
     As exemplified, water mist distribution tube  344  may have a plurality of outlets  360  distributed along its length  348  and length may extend part or all the way transversely across the air flow path. It will be appreciated that, in some embodiment, two or more distribution tubes  344  may be provided, each of which may extend part or all the way across the air flow path. Further, distribution tube  344  may extend transverse or generally transverse to the direction of air flow or at an angle to the direction of air flow. 
     As exemplified, water mist distribution tube  344  extends transversely to the air flow direction  364  through fan coil air flow path  136  across water mist distribution tube  344  and may extend part or all the way across the air flow path. For example, as exemplified in  FIG. 6 , water mist distribution tube  344  may have a transverse length  348  that extends at least substantially along the transverse length  368  of the air flow conduit in which it is positioned. An advantage this design is that the discharged water mist disperses more evenly across the cross-section of the fan coil air flow path  136  for better exposure to the air passing therethrough. As a result, the discharged water mist may be more efficiently absorbed into the air flow so that less water mist may accumulate in the fan coil apparatus. In turn, the misting portion  168  consumes less power by activating less frequently, by activating at a lower power setting, or by including a less powerful water mist production member. Also, less water may be consumed by misting portion  168  because less water is lost to accumulation. Depending on the depth (front to back) of the air outlet, distribution duct may be at an angle to the air flow direction, thereby permitting a longer distribution tube  344 . 
     Returning to  FIG. 7 , distribution tube  344  may include any number of outlets  360 . Preferably, distribution tube includes a plurality of outlets  360  to enhance the distribution of water mist into the fan coil air flow path  136 . In the illustrated example, distribution tube  344  includes ten outlets  360 . Distribution tube outlets  360  may have any size and shape suitable for discharging the air and water mist mixture into the fan coil air flow path  136 . For example, in other embodiments, water mist distribution tube  344  may have one or more longitudinally extending openings or slits or a plurality of slits, each of which may extend part way along length  348 . Water mist distribution tube  344  may have one or more outlets of any size which permit the air travelling through the misting unit to exit into the air flow path. In the illustrated example, each distribution tube outlet  360  is equally sized and shaped as a small circular perforation in the hollow distribution tube  344 . An advantage of this design is that the air and water mist mixture may discharge relatively equally from each distribution tube outlet  360 . In alternative embodiments, distribution tube outlet  360  may include outlets  360  of different sizes, different shapes, or both. An advantage of this design is that the size and shape of each distribution tube outlet  360  may be selected to correspond with the shape and flow characteristics of the fan coil air flow path  136 . For example, distribution tube outlets  360  nearer to the walls of the fan coil housing  104  ( FIG. 6 ) may be sized and shaped to discharge less water mist than the more centrally located outlets  360  to reduce accumulation on the fan coil housing  104 . 
     Distribution tube outlets  360  may be distributed across all or any portion of the air conduit transverse length  368 . Preferably, distribution tube outlets  360  extend across at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or more of air conduit transverse length  368 , as shown. An advantage of this design is that it allows the water mist discharged from the distribution tube outlets  360  to be more evenly distributed across the fan coil air flow path  136 . 
     Water droplets may accumulate in water mist distribution tube  344 . Therefore, distribution tube  344  may be sloped to direct the flow of accumulated water droplets inside of distribution tube  344  away from outlets  360 . An advantage of this design is that water may be inhibited from dripping out of outlets  360  of distribution tube  344 . As exemplified in  FIG. 6 , distribution tube second end  356  is elevated above distribution tube first end  352 . An advantage of this design is that water droplets that accumulate from the air and water mist mixture may flow by gravity towards distribution tube first end  352 , through misting portion air outlet conduit  346 , into water tank  224 . This recycles the accumulated water to be reused for mist generation.  FIG. 17  shows an example in which distribution tube first end  352  is elevated above distribution tube second end  356 . In this example, distribution tube second end  356  may be open to form a drain  392 . As shown, distribution tube drain  392  may be connected to a drain conduit  396  for directing drain water downstream to, e.g. a municipal drain or recirculation back into misting portion, as described above with respect to drain  376  and drain conduit  384  ( FIG. 7 ).  FIG. 18  shows an example in which water mist distribution tube  344  includes a central portion  402  located between and elevated above distribution tube first and second ends  352  and  356 . In this example, some water droplets that are not evaporated may flow towards distribution tube first end  352  and others towards distribution tube second end  356 . In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that distribution tube  344  may extend horizontally or in any other direction or directions. 
     Optionally, as exemplified in  FIGS. 6-7 , in some embodiments humidification unit  164  may be configured with a water impermeable container  372  positioned below (i.e. at a lower elevation than) mist distributor  340 . The water impermeable container  372  may be positioned below outlets  360  to catch dripping water droplets, accumulated from the discharging air and water mist mixture. An advantage of this design is that it prevents the water droplets from pooling inside fan coil housing  104  and potentially leaking in the apparatus surroundings (e.g. inside the wall in which apparatus  100  is recessed). 
     Water impermeable container  372  may have any configuration suitable for catching and optionally draining away accumulated water from mist distributor  340 . In the illustrated example, water impermeable container  372  is formed as an angled trough having a drain outlet  376  at its lower end  380 . Water collected in water impermeable container  372  will flow by gravity downwards to drain outlet  376 , which discharges the collected water (also referred to as drain water) downstream to, e.g. a municipal drain, or recirculation back into misting portion  168 . An advantage of recirculating the collected water back into misting portion  168  is that the reused water reduces water consumption by displacing water otherwise drawn from water supply  180  ( FIG. 3 ). In the illustrated example, a drain conduit  384  is connected to drain outlet  376  for directing drain water downstream. 
       FIG. 7  shows an example in which drain conduit  384  directs drain water directly into the water tank of misting portion  168  to use in generating water mist.  FIG. 15  shows an example in which drain conduit  384  directs drain water toward fan coil drain  312 , which leads outside of fan coil apparatus  100 , such as to a municipal drain or outdoors.  FIG. 16  shows an example in which drain conduit  384  directs collected water to a venturi device  388  upstream of filter portion  204 . Venturi device  388  is substantially similar to venturi device  316  ( FIG. 11 ), and includes a venturi pipe  320  having a water supply inlet  324 , a drain water inlet  328 , and a misting portion outlet  332 . Water supply inlet  324  is fluidly connected downstream of water supply  180 , drain water inlet  328  is fluidly connected downstream of drain outlet  376 , and misting portion outlet  332  is fluidly connected upstream of misting portion  168 , such as downstream of filter portion  204  as shown. Venturi device  388  may also include a filter  336  positioned upstream of drain water inlet  328  or downstream of misting portion outlet  332 . 
     Air Permeable Water Retaining Member 
     The following is a description of an air impermeable water retaining member that may be used by itself or in combination with one or more other features disclosed herein including one or more of an air scoop, a misting portion water impermeable container, mist distributor, a filter portion, a leak detection control system, and a treatment applicator. 
     In accordance with this feature, humidification unit  164  may include an air permeable water retaining member  456  positioned in the fan coil air flow path  136  downstream of mist distributor  340 . The air permeable water retaining member  456  allows the humidified air flow to pass through and retain (e.g., adsorbs, adsorbs or physically retains) excess water emitted from the distributor  340  that is not entrained or evaporated into the humidified air flow. An advantage of this design is that liquid water in the air flow is removed from the air flow instead of pooling in fan coil housing  104 , a downstream air flow vent, or a room serviced by fan coil apparatus  100 . 
     As exemplified in  FIG. 27 , air permeable water retaining member  456  may be positioned anywhere in the fan coil air flow path  136  downstream of mist distributor  340 . Preferably, air permeable water retaining member  456  is spaced apart from mist distributor  340  sufficiently to allow the discharged water mist an opportunity to evaporate into the air flow. In the illustrated example, air permeable water retaining member  456  is positioned in the air exit plenum  156  immediately upstream of fan coil air outlet  116 . An advantage of this design is that water mist discharged from mist distributor  340  is given an extended opportunity to evaporate into the air flow before the remaining liquid phase water is removed from the air flow by air permeable water retaining member  456 . 
     Air permeable water retaining member  456  may be mounted in position in the fan coil air flow path  136  in any suitable manner. As exemplified in  FIGS. 28 and 29 , humidification unit  164  includes a water impermeable container  460  which holds air permeable water retaining member  456 . For example, air permeable water retaining member  456  may be seated on of located above water impermeable container  460 . An advantage of this design is that water impermeable container  460  may collect water that flows or drips from air permeable water retaining member  456 . 
     Water impermeable container  460  may have any configuration suitable for holding air permeable water retaining member  456  in position, and/or catching water that flows or drips from air permeable water retaining member  456 . In the illustrated example, water impermeable container  460  includes an optional drain outlet  464  that provides an outlet for water collected on water impermeable container  460 . An advantage of this design is that water that flows or drips from water impermeable container  460  may be redirected through drain outlet  464  to, e.g. a municipal drain, or recirculated back into misting portion  168 . This prevents the water collected on water impermeable container  460  from spilling into the fan coil apparatus  100  and leaking into the fan coil&#39;s surroundings (e.g. inside the wall of a room). In the illustrated example, a drain conduit  464  is connected to water impermeable container  460  for directing the drain water downstream. 
     Drain conduit  464  may be substantially similar to drain conduit  376 . As described previously with respect to drain conduit  376 , drain conduit  464  may direct drain water towards fan coil drain  312 , water tank  224  of misting portion  168 , or to filter portion  204  such as by way of a venturi device  388  ( FIG. 16 ). In this regard, the description and drawings relating to drain conduit  376  apply mutatis mutandis to drain conduit  464 , and repetitive description and drawings for drain conduit  464  are not provided. 
     Air permeable water retaining member  456  may be secured or removably secured in position using any support or holding structure. Preferably, air permeable water retaining member  456  overlies (e.g. is positioned above or is seated on) water impermeable container  460  so that water may drip or flow by gravity from air permeable water retaining member  456  to water impermeable container  460 . In some embodiments, water impermeable container  460  may be integrally formed with or permanently connected to air permeable water retaining member  456 . In the illustrated example, air permeable water retaining member  456  is removably seated (e.g. removably received in) water impermeable container  460 . An advantage of this design is that it allows air permeable water retaining member  456  to be removed for cleaning, repair, or replacement should that be required. 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 28-29 , air permeable water retaining member  456  can have any size and shape suitable for retaining excess water from the air flow in fan coil air flow path  136 . As exemplified, air permeable water retaining member  456  has a length  468  transverse to the fan coil air flow path downstream direction  268 , a height  472  transverse to the fan coil air flow path downstream direction  268 , and a thickness  476  parallel to the fan coil air flow path downstream direction  268 . The length  468  and height  472  may be sized so that air permeable water retaining member  456  spans at least a majority, and preferably substantially the entire cross-section of the fan coil air flow path  136 . An advantage of this design is that a majority or substantially all of the air flow through fan coil air flow path  136  may pass through air permeable water retaining member  456 , and therefore a majority or substantially all of the excess water can be retained by air permeable water retaining member  456 . Thickness  476  is preferably sized to optimize water retention efficiency. If thickness  476  is too great, then air permeable water retaining member  456  may obstruct the air flow through fan coil air flow path  136 . If thickness  476  is too thin, then air permeable water retaining member  456  may have too little water retention capacity. 
     Air permeable water retaining member  456  may be formed of any material suitable for retaining excess water from the air flow in fan coil air flow path  136  and which, preferably, will not rust. For example, air permeable water retaining member  456  may comprise an open cell material, such as an open cell foam (see e.g.,  FIG. 30 ), an open cell plastic, an aluminum mesh, aluminum plates or the like. 
     For example,  FIG. 31  exemplifies an air permeable water retaining member  456  includes a layered material, such as layered aluminum mesh or layered aluminum plates. 
     Filter Portion 
     The following is a description of an filter portion that may be used by itself or in combination with one or more other features disclosed herein including one or more of an air scoop, a misting portion water impermeable container, mist distributor, a leak detection control system, an air permeable water retaining member and a treatment applicator. Optionally, in accordance with this feature, a water filter is provided upstream of the mist production member. An advantage of this design is that, if the mist producing member is a nebulizer or the like, then scaling or fouling of the mist production member may be reduced. 
       FIGS. 19 and 20  exemplify a filter portion  204  which may include a water filter  404  positioned in the water flow path between water supply  180  and misting portion  168 . Water filter  404  may be any type of filter suitable for filtering water supplied to misting portion  168  ( FIG. 5 ) for impurities, such as contaminants and minerals. For example, water filter  404  may include physical, chemical, or biological means of removing water impurities. Water filter  404  includes an inlet  408  downstream of water supply  180 , and an outlet  412  upstream of misting portion  168  ( FIG. 5 ). In the illustrated example, an optional shut-off valve  184  is positioned upstream of water filter inlet  408  between water filter inlet  408  and water supply  180 . In alternative embodiments, shut-off valve  184  may be positioned downstream of water filter outlet  412  or may not be provided. 
     Filter portion  204  may include any number of water filters  404 .  FIGS. 19 and 20  show an example of filter portion  204  including one water filter  404 . An advantage of having a single water filter  404  is that only one water filter  404  needs to be periodically cleaned or replaced.  FIG. 21  shows an example of filter portion  204  including a plurality of water filters  404  in series. An advantage of having a plurality of water filters in series  404  is that each water filter  404  may be specially configured to remove different impurities. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 19 and 20 , in some embodiments, filter portion  204  may include a leak container  416  to collect water that may leak from water filter  404  and/or shut-off valve  184 . As shown, water filter  404  and shut-off valve  184  may overlie at least a portion of an open interior of filter portion leak container  416  so that leaking water from filter portion  204  and/or shut-off valve  184  may fall by gravity into filter portion leak container  416 . An advantage of this design is that filter portion leak container  416  may collect any water that may leak from water filter  404  and/or shut-off valve  184  instead of that water pooling inside fan coil housing  104  and potentially leaking into the apparatus surroundings (e.g. inside the wall in which apparatus  100  is recessed). 
     As shown, filter portion leak container  416  may include a drain  420  that provides an outlet for water collected in filter portion leak container  416 . An advantage of this design is that water leaking from water filter  404  and/or shut-off valve  184  may be redirected through drain  420  to, e.g. a municipal drain, or recirculated back into the water flow path between water supply  180  and misting portion  168  ( FIG. 5 ). In the illustrated example, a drain conduit  424  is connected to leak container drain  420  for directing drain water downstream. 
       FIG. 5  shows an example in which leak container drain conduit  424  directs drain water towards fan coil drain  312 , which leads outside of fan coil apparatus  100 , such as to a municipal drain or outdoors.  FIG. 22  shows an example in which leak container drain conduit  424  directs water to recirculate back into water filter inlet  408 . As shown, leak container drain conduit  424  may be fluidly connected to a venturi device  316 . The venture device  316  combines the drain water with water from water supply  180  upstream of water filter  404 . An advantage of this design is that water consumption is reduced by recycling the drain water instead of discarding the drain water (e.g. to a municipal drain). 
     Leak Detection Control System 
     The following is a description of leak detection control system that may be used by itself or in combination with one or more other features disclosed herein including one or more of an air scoop, a misting portion water impermeable container, mist distributor, a filter portion, an air permeable water retaining member and a treatment applicator. 
     In accordance with this feature, the water supply to, e. g, tank  224 , may be shut off if a leak is detected. An advantage of this design is that water to the humidification unit may be stopped before, e. g., leak containers  296  or  416  overflow and spill water into the fan coil housing  104 . 
     As exemplified in  FIGS. 19 and 23 , one or both of misting portion  168  and filter portion  204  may include a leak water level detector  428 . Leak water level detector  428  may be communicatively coupled (e.g. electrically connected) to a controller, which may be humidification unit controller  172 . Humidification unit controller  172  may direct the shut-off valve  184  to move to the closed position in response to any one or more of the leak water level detectors  428  sensing a high water level. As exemplified, misting portion  168  may include a leak water level detector  428   1  to sense a water level in misting portion leak container  296 , or filter portion  204  may include a leak water level detector  428   2  to sense a water level in filter portion leak container  416 , or both. 
     Leak water level detectors  428  may have any configuration suitable for detecting a high water level condition in a leak container  296  or  416 . For example, leak water level detectors  428  may include one or more float switches as exemplified, pressure sensors, optical sensors, capacitance sensors, ultrasonic sensors, or laser sensors. In the illustrated embodiment, water level detectors  428  are electrically connected to humidification unit controller  172  by wires  432 , which may also provide water level detectors  428  with power to operate, if required. In other embodiments, other means of communication may be used including wireless (e.g., Bluetooth), optical, or the like. 
     In some embodiments, leak water level detectors  428  may sense the presence of a high water level and a low water level in a leak container  296  or  416 .  FIG. 23  shows an example of leak water level detector  428  in a first position and sensing a low water level, and  FIG. 24  shows an example of the leak water level detector  428   1  in a second position and sensing a high water level. 
     Returning to  FIGS. 19 and 23 , preferably, humidification unit controller  172  directs shut-off valve  184  to move to its closed position in response to determining that any of the leak water level detectors  428  senses a high water level. For example, humidification unit controller  172  may intermittently poll leak water level detectors  428  for a water level status, leak water level detectors  428  may intermittently report the water level status to humidification unit controller  172 , or humidification unit controller  172  may continuously monitor leak water level detectors  428  for a high or low water level status. Humidification unit controller  172  may permit shut-off valve  184  to move to its open position in response to determining that all of the leak water level detectors  428  sense a low water level. However, even if all of the leak water level detectors  428  sense a low water level, humidification unit controller  172  may yet direct shut-off valve  184  to move to or stay in the closed position until other factors are satisfied, such as receiving a signal from air regulating device  120  ( FIG. 3 ) instructing that humidity is required. 
     In some embodiments, humidification unit controller  172  directs shut-off valve  184  to move to its closed position in response to determining that any one of the leak water level detectors  428  is not sensing a low water level, even if none of the leak water level detectors  428  is sensing a high water level. For example, humidification unit controller  172  may only direct or permit shut-off valve  184  to move to its open position in response to determining that each of the leak water level detectors  428  is sensing a lower water level. 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 19 and 23 , in some embodiments misting portion inner container  292  may include a water level detector  428   3  to sense the water level in misting portion inner container  292  and/or water tank  224 . Water level detector  428   3  may be communicatively coupled (e.g. electrically connected) to humidification unit controller  172 , such as by wire  436   3 . Humidification unit controller  172  may direct the shut-off valve  184  to move to the closed position in response to water level detector  428   3  (or any other water level detector  428 ) sensing a high water level. An advantage of this design is that the water level in water tank  224  may be prevented from rising above a preset level, e.g., a the maximum water level that allows water mist production member  232  to generate water mist efficiently, and/or water tank  224  is prevented from overflowing. Once the inflow of water is shut off, the water level will lower again as the water mist production member  232  consumes water to generate water mist. 
     In some embodiments, water lever detector  428   3  may also sense a low water level in water tank  224 . In response, to water level detector  428   3  detecting a low water level, humidification unit controller  172  ( FIG. 5 ) may deactivate water mist production member  232 . For example, humidification unit controller  172  ( FIG. 5 ) may cut power to water mist production member  232  or signal water mist production member  232  to stop generating water mist. An advantage of this design is that water mist production member  232  may be prevented from damage by operating with insufficient water present. While water mist production member  232  is deactivated, the water level in water tank  224  may rise as water flows into misting portion  168 . Once the water level in water tank  224  is at a safe operating water level (e.g. once water mist production member  232  ceases to sense a low water level), the water mist production member  232  may respond by re-activate water mist production member  232 . 
     Reference is now made to  FIGS. 10 and 25-26 . In some embodiments, water level detector  428   3  may be positioned outside of the water tank  224 . For example, misting portion inner container  292  may include a water mist production member chamber  220  including water tank  224 , and a water reservoir  436 . As exemplified, the water tank  224  and water reservoir  436  may be separated by a separating wall  440 . An advantage of this design is that the water level detector  428   3  is at least partially insulated from water mist production member  232 . For example, separating wall  440  may at least partially insulate water level detector  428   3  from the high frequency ultrasonic waves emitted by nebulizer  284 , which may affect, interfere with, or damage water level detector  428   3 . 
     Misting portion water reservoir  436  is fluidly coupled with water tank  224  and may be laterally spaced therefrom so that the water level in water reservoir  436  may correspond to the water level in water tank  224 . This allows water level detector  428   3  to sense a high or low water level in water tank  224  based on the water level in misting portion water reservoir  436 . In the illustrated example, misting portion water reservoir  436  is fluidly coupled to water tank  224  by a fluid flow port  444 . Fluid flow port  444  may have any configuration that allows water to flow freely between water reservoir  436  and water tank  224 . In the illustrated example, fluid flow port  444  is formed as an aperture, recess, or cutaway in a lower portion  448  of separating wall  440 . Preferably, fluid flow port  444  is positioned at an elevation above water mist production member  232 . It will be appreciated that by laterally positioning water reservoir  436  from tank  224 , water level detector  428   3  may be set such that the high water level in water reservoir  436  corresponds to a maximum desired water level in tank  224  and, similarly, the low water level in water reservoir  436  corresponds to a minimum desired water level in tank  224 . 
     Optionally, the air flow path through the humidification unit may pass over water reservoir  436 . Accordingly, as exemplified in  FIG. 10 , misting portion separating wall  440  may be configured to allow (e.g. not obstruct) misting portion air flow path  236  to pass over misting portion water reservoir  436  to the air plenum  228  above water tank  224 . For example, misting portion separating wall  440  may have an upper end  452  spaced apart from misting portion upper wall  240  as shown, or may have one or more air flow ports to allow air to flow through. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 5 and 10 , humidification unit controller  172  may be any device suitable to execute the functionality described herein. For example, humidification unit  164  may be a computing device (e.g. including a processor and memory), or a logic circuit. In some embodiments, the relationship between the shut-off valve  184  and water level sensations by water level detectors  428  may be hardwired without use of humidification unit controller  172 . For example,  FIG. 32  shows an example power circuit  490  in which power to shut-off valve  184  depends on the position (or water level sensation) of water level detectors  428 . In this example, shut-off valve  184  moves to the closed position upon losing power, and water level detectors  428  open the power circuit in response to detecting a high water level. As a result, shut-off valve  184  loses power and moves to the closed position in response to any of water level detectors  428  sensing a high water level. 
     As exemplified in  FIG. 32 , if water level sensor  428   1  detects a high water level in misting portion leak container  296 , (e.g., a float switch rises to a high water level position), then water level sensor  428   1  may send a signal that opens circuit  490  as exemplified in  FIG. 32 . This may occur if, e.g., the drain of misting portion leak container  296  becomes blocked and the water level in misting portion leak container  296  rises and or there is a rapid leak and the water level in misting portion leak container  296  rises. In such a case, shut off valve  184  may move to the closed position (e.g., solenoid valve may be configured to move to the closed position when the circuit is open and no power is provided to the solenoid). It will be appreciated that when the water level drops in misting portion leak container  296 , e.g., water is drained by the drain conduit, that the water level will drop and a signal may no longer be provided by the sensor (e.g., the float switch drops). Accordingly, the circuit will close, thereby providing power to shut-off valve  184  and causing the valve to open and permitting water to enter the apparatus. 
     Similarly, if water level sensor  428   3  detects a high water level in misting portion inner container  292  and/or water tank  224  (e.g., a float switch rises to a high water level position), then water level sensor  428   3  may send a signal that opens circuit  490  as exemplified in  FIG. 32  and shut off valve  184  may move to the closed position. In such a case, the misting portion inner container  292  and/or water tank  224  will be at the high water level and no more water is required until the mist producing member has used sufficient water for the water level to drop and the sensor to no longer detect a high water level (e.g., a float switch drops from a high water level). 
     Similarly, if water level sensor  428   2  detects a high water level in filter portion leak container  416  (e.g., a float switch rises to a high water level position), then water level sensor  428   2  may send a signal that opens circuit  490  as exemplified in  FIG. 32  and shut off valve  184  may move to the closed position. This may occur if, e.g., the drain of filter portion leak container  416  becomes blocked and the water level in filter portion leak container  416  rises and or there is a rapid leak and the water level in filter portion leak container  416  rises. 
     It will be appreciated that, as long as one high water level is detected, that shut off valve  184  will close the water inlet line. 
     In an alternate embodiment, circuit  490  may remain open until water level sensor  428   1  detects a low water level in misting portion leak container  296 , 
     In a further alternate embodiment, shut-off valve may be configured to close if the circuit is closed. In such a case, water level sensors  428  may be configured to send a signal when not at a high water level. When they reach a high water level, they may cease sending a signal, in which case the circuit may close. 
     Treatment Applicator 
     The following is a description of a treatment applicator that may be used by itself or in combination with one or more other features disclosed herein including one or more of an air scoop, a misting portion water impermeable container, mist distributor, a filter portion, a leak detection control system and an air permeable water retaining member. 
     In accordance with this feature, a treatment applicator is provided which provides a disinfecting agent to the humidification unit to inhibit and, preferably prevent the growth of microorganisms, mold, bacteria, and the like (collectively referred herein as ‘organisms’). 
     As exemplified in  FIG. 27 , fan coil air flow path  136  may comprise a humidification section  480  in which water mist discharged by mist distributor  340  mixes with air flow in the fan coil air flow path  136 . In the illustrated embodiment, the humidification section  480  is shown between heating zone  148  and fan coil air outlet  116 , such as in air exit plenum  156 . However, in other embodiments, humidification section  480  may be positioned elsewhere along the fan coil air flow path  136 . 
     The conditions in humidification section  480  (e.g. presence of hot and humid air, and possibly accumulated water droplets) may result in the growth of organisms. Such organisms may have a negative effect of the air purity discharged from fan coil apparatus  100 . In some embodiments, fan coil apparatus  100  includes one or more treatment applicators  484  that provide one or more disinfecting agents in the humidification section  480  to reduce or eliminate organisms in the humidification section  480 . An advantage of this design is that it helps to purify the air discharged from fan coil apparatus  100  by reducing or eliminating potentially harmful organisms that may be come entrained in the air flow. 
     Disinfecting agents may be any element or emission that may reduce or inhibit growth of organisms in humidification section  480 , or that are harmful or lethal to organisms that may grow in humidification section  480 . Examples include ultra-violet (UV) light, ozone (O 3 ), and hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ). In the illustrated embodiment, fan coil apparatus  100  is shown including a UV light emitter  484   1 , an ozone gas emitter  484   2 , and a hydrogen peroxide vapor emitter  484   3 , which emit UV light, ozone gas, and hydrogen peroxide vapor, respectively, into humidification section  480 . 
     Ozone gas may be highly effective for purifying an air flow. However, ozone gas may be also harmful to breath for humans and animals. Some embodiments which include an ozone gas emitter  484   2  may also include an ozone destructor material  488  positioned in the fan coil air flow path  136  downstream of ozone gas emitter  484   2 . The ozone destructor material  488  may be any material that can remove ozone gas from the air flow by adsorption or conversion to one or more other molecules. Examples include activated carbon or an ozone catalyst that converts ozone (O 3 ) to oxygen (O 2 ). An advantage of this design is that the ozone gas that is added to the air flow to counteract organisms in the humidification section  480  may be removed before the air flow is discharged from fan coil apparatus  100 . This can allow a fan coil apparatus  100  including ozone gas emitter  484   2  to be safely employed in, e.g. residential spaces. 
     Alternately or in addition, as exemplified in  FIG. 23 , misting portion  168  may comprise a treatment applicator  492  to counteract organisms inside misting portion  168 . For example, misting portion  168  may include a treatment applicator  492  that provides a disinfecting agent in misting portion inner container  292 . An advantage of this design is that it can mitigate or eliminate the growth of organisms inside misting portion inner container  292 , such as organisms that may grow in water tank  224 , air plenum  228 , or along misting portion air flow path  236 . Treatment applicator  492  may be the same as or similar to treatment applicator  484 . As with treatment applicator  484 , treatment applicator  492  may produce any disinfecting agent that may reduce or inhibit growth of organisms in misting portion  168 , or that may be harmful or lethal to organisms that may grow in misting portion  168 . Examples of disinfecting agents include ultra-violet (UV) light, ozone (O 3 ), and hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ). In the illustrated embodiment, misting portion  168  is shown including a UV light emitter  492 , which emits UV light into water mist production chamber  220 . 
     While the above description provides examples of the embodiments, it will be appreciated that some features and/or functions of the described embodiments are susceptible to modification without departing from the spirit and principles of operation of the described embodiments. Accordingly, what has been described above has been intended to be illustrative of the invention and non-limiting and it will be understood by persons skilled in the art that other variants and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims appended hereto. The scope of the claims should not be limited by the preferred embodiments and examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.