Humidifier with a tamper proof liquid level responsive shut-off

Abstract

A humidifier including a base defining a reservoir for retaining a liquid volume; an electrically energized humidification mechanism for inducing dispersion of liquid contained by said reservoir; an electrical supply for supplying electrical energy to the humidification mechanism; an electrical switch coupled between the supply and the humidification mechanism and having active and inactive states, the switch adapted in its active state to allow the supply of electrical energy to the humidification mechanism and adapted in its inactive state to prevent the supply of electrical energy thereto; and an operator coupled to the electrical switch and adapted for movement between active and inactive positions, the operator adapted in its active position to induce the active state of the electrical switch and in its inactive position to induce the inactive state thereof. Also included is a float disposed in the reservoir and adapted for movement in response to changes in the level of liquid therein, the float comprising an actuator portion for inducing movement of the operator and having a cross-section of given shape; and a barrier wall limiting access to the electrical switch and defining an opening conforming to the given shape, the opening receiving the actuator portion and accommodating movement thereof. The barrier wall prevents tampering operations with the electrical switch.