Introduction
The Holmes One Step Fill & Clean Cool Mist Humidifier, Model HM5100, is designed to enhance your indoor air quality by adding essential moisture to the air. This unit features a convenient top-fill design, eliminating spills and the need to carry heavy water tanks. Its innovative design also allows for easy cleaning, with the tank being dishwasher-safe. With variable speed options, you can easily adjust the humidity output to achieve your desired comfort level. This humidifier is ideal for small rooms and can run for up to 24 hours on a single fill.
Important Safeguards
When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury to persons, including the following:
- Read all instructions before using the appliance.
- To avoid fire or shock hazard, plug the appliance directly into a 120V AC electrical outlet.
- Keep the cord out of heavy traffic areas. To avoid fire hazard, NEVER put the cord under rugs, near heat registers, radiators, stoves, or heaters.
- Always unplug the appliance when not in use or when cleaning.
- Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions or has been dropped or damaged in any manner.
- Use appliance only for intended household use as described in this manual. Any other use not recommended by the manufacturer may cause fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.
- Do not use outdoors.
- Always place the humidifier on a firm, flat, level surface.
- Do not place the humidifier directly on a carpet or rug.
- Do not place the humidifier near heat sources such as stoves, radiators, and heaters.
- Do not block air openings or place on a soft surface such as a bed or sofa, where air openings may be blocked.
- Do not allow children to play with the humidifier.
- Do not immerse the humidifier in water or other liquids.
Getting Started & Parts Identification
Familiarize yourself with the components of your Holmes HM5100 Humidifier before operation.

Image: Front view of the Holmes HM5100 Humidifier, showing the main body, top grille, and control knobs.
- Main Unit: Houses the motor and fan.
- Water Reservoir/Base: Holds the water for humidification.
- Top Cover/Grille: Allows for top-filling and air circulation.
- Humidity Control Knob: Adjusts the desired humidity level.
- Fan Speed Control Knob: Adjusts the fan speed (and mist output).
- Filter: Evaporative filter (located inside, not visible from outside).
Setup
Follow these steps for initial setup of your humidifier:
- Unpack: Carefully remove the humidifier from its packaging. Retain packaging for future storage.
- Placement: Place the humidifier on a firm, level, water-resistant surface at least 6 inches away from walls and furniture. Do not place it directly on carpet or near heat sources.
- Fill Water: Open the top cover. Fill the water reservoir directly from the top with cool, clean tap water. Do not overfill.
- Close Cover: Securely close the top cover.
- Plug In: Plug the power cord into a 120V AC electrical outlet.

Image: A hand pouring water from a pitcher directly into the open top of the humidifier, demonstrating the easy top-fill feature.
Operating Instructions
Once set up, operating your humidifier is straightforward:
- Power On: Turn the Fan Speed Control Knob clockwise from the "OFF" position to your desired fan speed (low or high). The humidifier will begin to operate.
- Adjust Humidity: Use the Humidity Control Knob to set your desired humidity level. The humidifier will automatically turn on and off to maintain this level. For continuous operation, set the humidity control to the highest setting.
- Refilling: When the water level is low, the humidifier will stop operating. Refill the water reservoir as described in the "Setup" section.
- Power Off: To turn off the humidifier, turn the Fan Speed Control Knob counter-clockwise to the "OFF" position.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for optimal performance and longevity of your humidifier.
Daily/Weekly Cleaning
For best results, clean the humidifier regularly, especially the water reservoir, to prevent mineral buildup and bacterial growth.
- Unplug: Always unplug the humidifier before cleaning.
- Empty Water: Remove the top cover and empty any remaining water from the reservoir.
- Dishwasher Cleaning: The water reservoir and top cover are dishwasher safe. Place them on the top rack of your dishwasher for easy and thorough cleaning.
- Manual Cleaning (if preferred): Alternatively, wash the reservoir and cover with warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
- Wipe Base: Wipe the exterior of the main unit with a soft, damp cloth. Do not immerse the main unit in water.
- Dry: Allow all parts to air dry completely before reassembling.

Image: A person placing the humidifier's water tank into the top rack of a dishwasher, illustrating the dishwasher-safe feature for easy cleaning.
Filter Replacement
The evaporative filter should be replaced periodically, typically every 1-3 months, depending on water hardness and usage. A dirty filter can reduce the humidifier's efficiency.
- Unplug: Ensure the humidifier is unplugged.
- Remove Top: Remove the top cover and the water reservoir.
- Access Filter: Locate the filter housing within the main unit.
- Remove Old Filter: Carefully remove the old, saturated filter.
- Insert New Filter: Insert a new Holmes replacement filter (model compatible with HM5100) into the housing, ensuring it is seated correctly.
- Reassemble: Reassemble the water reservoir and top cover.
Troubleshooting
If your humidifier is not operating as expected, consult the following table for common issues and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Humidifier does not turn on. | No power; Water tank empty; Controls set to OFF. | Ensure unit is plugged in; Fill water tank; Turn Fan Speed Control Knob to ON position. |
| No mist or low mist output. | Water tank empty; Dirty filter; Fan speed too low. | Refill water tank; Clean or replace filter; Increase fan speed. |
| Unusual noise. | Unit not level; Obstruction in fan; Mineral buildup. | Place on a level surface; Check for obstructions and remove; Clean the unit thoroughly. |
| Water leakage. | Overfilled tank; Unit not assembled correctly. | Do not overfill; Ensure top cover and reservoir are securely in place. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | HOLMES |
| Model Number | HM5100-UM |
| Type | Cool Mist Humidifier |
| Capacity | 0.7 Gallons (approx.) |
| Run Time | Up to 24 hours per tank fill |
| Room Size | Designed for small rooms |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Control Method | Touch/Knob |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 12.4 x 12.4 x 9.5 inches |
| Item Weight | 4.4 Pounds |
| Dishwasher Safe Parts | Water reservoir and top cover |
Warranty and Support
This Holmes HM5100 Humidifier comes with a 1-year limited warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in material and workmanship under normal household use.
For warranty service, technical support, or general inquiries, please contact Holmes customer service. Refer to the product packaging or the official Holmes website for the most current contact information, including phone numbers and support portals.
Please retain your original purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.





