An apparatus including a replacement refill assembly for dispersing a volatile active into air. The replacement refill assembly includes a reservoir for containing a composition having a volatile active and a wick having an emanating surface from which the active may be volatized. A retainer is included in the apparatus for receiving and retaining the replacement refill assembly. A wire heating element is resiliently supported by opposing spring members so that when the refill assembly is received within the retainer, the spring members bias the heating element against the emanating surface of the wick while yielding an amount sufficient to prevent the heating element from breaking. In one embodiment, the apparatus also includes an air regulator, such as a baffle, for minimizing the flow of air across the heater element. A method and apparatus for controlling the source of power in the apparatus to periodically heat and clean the heating element is further described.