I purchased this machine two months ago to help with recovery from RSV. I like it because it's quiet (on low fan setting). The red power light bothered me at night so I placed a sticker over it. The tanks do not need to be filled completely unless you are running grow room, lol...partial fill on one side maintains the water level for the wicks for a few days. I purchased extra wicks and rotate every couple of weeks. You can soak them in white vinegar and air dry for reuse. There is a noise when the water in the base drops and the tanks take in a little air and the water siphons out, like a gurgling that lasts about 5 seconds. Good machine, even though it's not pretty!
