Author: Chad

When most people think of air pollution, they automatically assume it’s in connection with outdoor air.

However, indoor air that’s found within most of our homes is not as clean as you’d think and can in some cases, be just as harmful to your health.

Indoor air contains a variety of contaminants including pollen, pet hair, mold spores, dust, and viruses. Long-term exposure to any of these things can play a significant role in the damaging of your health, particularly if you already suffer from any pre-existing respiratory problems.

Using a good quality air filtration system within the home can help protect your health significantly by ensuring you always have a fresh and clean supply of air to breathe. These devices come in all kinds of shapes and sizes. In addition to that, they also differ in the way in which they clean the air. In this review, we’ll go through some of the different types of air purifiers available to buy. We’ll also give you some idea as to how each of the work, why they’re so effective, so you can decide which is the best air purifier for you.

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HEPA Filter Air Purifiers

HEPA stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air and air purifiers fitted with these kinds of filters are some of the most popular and commonly used on the market today. One of the reasons why they’re so widely used is that they’re so effective. True HEPA filters are capable of capturing up to 99.97% of air particles and contaminants that are 0.3 microns and larger. They create no harmful byproducts or ozone and are highly reliable.

To give you a brief idea of how they work, HEPA filter air purifiers draw air into the machine via a fan. The air is then passed through a kind of pre-filter in which to trap any airborne contaminants and larger particles. Then, the HEPA filter sets to work removing all that remains. For more detailed information on how HEPA filters work click here.

While HEPA filters themselves are very effective when it comes to sanitizing the air, they do not have the ability to destroy chemical fumes, tobacco smoke, odors, or gases. So, to combat this issue, most decent HEPA air purifiers will also include some kind of activated charcoal filter alongside it.

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Activated Carbon Air Purifiers

If you live in an environment with pets and small people frequently roaming around, you’ll be grateful for one of these. An activated carbon air purifier uses a filter with lots of tiny absorbent pores. As air flows through the filter it reacts with the activated carbon and all those harmful irritants and other air pollutants bond permanently. While this type of filter isn’t capable of removing allergens or micro-organisms from the air, it does capture smoke, odors, mold spore, gases, and volatile organic compounds (VOC).

As a rough guide, these filters need changing around every three to six months, depending on usage, which is about average for any air purification system. The ultimate benefit of having clean filters is that your machine will work more effectively, helping to reduce any allergic or asthmatic reactions.

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Ionic Air Purifiers

Ionic air purifiers are often referred to as ionizers or negative ion generators and they work a little different to the likes of a HEPA air purifying system. Instead of trapping pollutants and other airborne particles in a filter, these machines work by producing and releasing negative ions into the air. These electrically charged ions react with positively charged pollutants in the air, causing them to neutralize and fall to the ground.

Negative ion generators are very good at dealing with pollen, dust, viruses, and other airborne particles and they’re also very low maintenance. However, on their own, they don’t remove odors. Another downside is that they also create a small amount of ozone into the air which may cause irritation to the lungs, especially in those suffering from any respiratory conditions such as asthma. They also take a little longer to work than most other types of air purifiers.

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Spray Air Purifiers 

While this kind of air purifier isn’t really recommended for long term use, it is an effective temporary solution. Spray air purifiers are sometimes referred to as air sanitizers. These devices contain cleaning agents in which to attack microorganisms and neutralize odors and gases in the air.

They are highly effective at tackling bad odors fast, making them a favorite among those with pets or really active kids and make a great addition to the kitchen, living room, or bedroom. Or, some people use them in the bathroom as a really cool air freshener alternative.

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Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO) Air Purifiers

These purifiers take the processes of cleaning indoor air to a whole new level. You won’t find a filter in these machines. Instead, they use a broad-spectrum UV light, water moisture, and a thin sheet of metal in which to create a chemical reaction that breaks down allergens and other airborne particles. All of this takes place inside a reaction chamber so is perfectly safe.

As the air gets purified it flows back out of the device through the reaction chamber core with the help of an integrated fan. These air purifiers are extremely effective as they literally exterminate every air contaminant it comes across from gases, to viruses, to pet dander, to microscopic particles up to 100 times smaller than what a HEPA filter can capture.

Because there’s no filter, PCO air purifiers are very easy to maintain. All they need is a little wipe down every now and then to get of rid of any surface dust and a replacement reaction chamber every 2-3 years.

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Photo Electrochemical Oxidation (PECO) Air Purifiers 

Essentially, PECO air purifiers are an upgraded version of the PCO models. They work in exactly the same way, but instead of using a thin sheet of metal to create a reaction, they have a built-in filter membrane that’s coated with nanoparticles. This causes a much stronger and much faster reaction when exposed to UV light compared to that of the PCO air purifier.

As with PCO air purifiers, these devices destroy every type of contaminant they come in contact with. The only real drawback with PECO air purifiers is that they tend to need their filters replacing around once a year on average.

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Ultraviolet (UV) Light Air Purifiers

According the United States Environmental Protection Agency, there are three bands of UV light – UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C. The band used in air purifiers is UV-C light. When this light comes into contact with the air, it disrupts the DNA of bacteria, germs, mold, and viruses, rendering them ineffective.

How well this type of air purifier performs depends on the light’s wattage and the amount of time the air is exposed to the light. Make sure to replace the lamp as per the manufacturer’s recommendation. Just be aware that a UV light air purifier won’t remove any harmful chemicals, allergens, odors, smoke, or airborne particles from the air.

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Ozone Air Purifiers

Ozone air purifiers, otherwise known as ozone generators, use oxidant ozone in which to eliminate various contaminants from the air including bad odors, bacteria, dust mites, and more. While ozone does have somewhat of a bad reputation for the harmful effects it has on humans, it’s actually a really good air cleaner. The way the work is by releasing a small amount of ozone into the air in the room. As it spreads it reacts with chemically with the air’s pollutants and breaks them down into water and carbon dioxide mostly.

While these air purifiers are effective, they can be dangerous if not used correctly. Ideally, you don’t want to be in the same room as it while it’s on either. So, the best course of action when using one of these air devices is to turn it on high and leave the room. When it’s finished doing what it needs to do, turn the device off and air out the room before reentering. Just be careful if you suffer with any respiratory conditions such as asthma as long-term exposure to ozone could aggravate the symptoms.

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Electronic Air Cleaners

With an electronic air cleaner – the sky’s the limit (or maybe the ceiling in this case)! These devices are well-known for being extremely effective. In fact, they can remove as much 99.98% of allergens, dust, pet dander, viruses, smoke, and fumes within the home.

The way in which these air cleaners work is in quite clever. As air passes through the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning or HVAC system, it first gets filtered through a HEPA-type filter where most of the contaminated particles are removed. Next, the air gets treated with positively charged ions that are generated within the electronic air cleaner. These ions destroy any remaining odors and contaminants, ensuring you get a constant supply of clean air.

Because they’re used in conjunction with your home air conditioning unit and furnace, these air filters must be professionally installed. You also need to ensure the filters are replaced regularly and that the ionizing wires or collector cells are kept clean by giving them a quick hose down once a month or so.

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Why Invest in an Air Purifier?

The type of air purifier that’s best for you will depend on various factors and is not a decision that should be taken lightly. The following are a few tips which should help you decide:

1. Think about what contaminants, in particular, you are looking to remove from the air. It may be that you have a house full of pets and so you’ll probably want an air purifier that’s going to banish pet hair and dander, as well as bad odors. In which case you should look for models that include activated carbon filters
2. Check out the machine’s capacity and make sure it’s compatible with the surface area of the room you want to use it in. Buying an air purifier that’s not powerful enough for the space it’s going in will have a minimal effect. While buying one that’s too big for the room will work, it’s a waste of energy and money.
3. Consider the noise level. All air purifiers operate at different noise levels. While some offer a wide range of fan speeds and therefore quieter modes, others are a little limited in that department. So, if you are looking to place the air purifier in the bedroom at all, and don’t want to be kept awake all night by the sound of a roaring machine, be sure to opt for one of the quieter models out there.
4. Calculate your long-term costs. Owning an air purifier is not just about the initial investment. You need to consider the machine’s running costs too, and that includes power usage, filter replacement, and overall maintenance costs.
5. Read independent review to reveal both the pros and cons of the various types of air purifiers available, we have many here on Skyonic!

You deserve to have the best air quality within your home. And with the help of a good air purifier, that’s highly achievable. They come in all kinds of shapes and sizes so finding one to fit your free space shouldn’t be an issue.

So, what are you waiting for? Improve your indoor air quality today.

Manufacturers offer several types of air purification methods. These include filters, ozone generators, ionization, adsorbents, and UV light. Many devices rely on more than one method.

High-quality machines may cost a few hundred dollars to buy. Over time, you will probably need to spend more money running and maintaining your purifier. On the other hand, a good air purifier may offer you the best way to improve indoor air quality and keep your household healthy. That’s why it can pay to learn more about how air purifiers work before deciding which one will help you invest in clean air for you and your family.

What Does an Air Purifier Do and How Does It Work?

Obviously, some air purifiers work better as air cleaners than others, especially in different situations. Take a moment to learn about various types of air purifiers that you can buy for your home.

Filters

The most traditional kinds of air filtration systems use filters. Think of the filters that you use in the air ducts for your home heating and air conditioning system. You may purchase devices that use disposable filters, but some come with washable ones. Denser filter materials can catch smaller particles, and a pleated design may prove more effective than a flat one because it has a larger surface area. To keep your filter effective and efficient, be sure to replace or clean it by the manufacturer’s schedule.

HEPA and ULPA Filters 

HEPA stands for high-efficiency particular air, and HEPA filters must meet Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA, standards. To comply with the HEPA standard, particles of at least .03 microns can’t make it past the barrier more than .03 percent of the time. You might also notice a ULPA, or ultra-low particulate air, standard, which is even stricter. Besides getting used for home air purifiers, some industries rely upon HEPA air purifiers and ULPA filters to keep certain worksites free from contamination and reduce emissions. The EPA suggests cleaning and replacing these filters on schedule to ensure efficiency.

Ionizing Air Purifiers 

Ionizing purifiers work by emitting electricity to give contaminates either a positive or negative charge. The charged particles tend to clump together, making them heavier and likely to fall out of the air. Meanwhile, the device has a positively and negatively charged plate that will attract molecules with the opposite charge. According to the EPA, ion air purifiers are best for small particles, like cigarette smoke, but may not work so well for dust or many other airborne allergens. They may also emit ozone, a controversial byproduct of air purifiers.

Ozone Generators

Somewhat similar to ionizers, ozone generators also produce a charge. Instead of just applying a charge to contaminants, these devices change some oxygen molecules into ozone molecules. These devices are meant to help purify and deodorize. However, the EPA warns that ozone can become a lung irritant and, in larger quantities, even a health hazard.

Adsorbents 

Note that these are adsorbent and not absorbent. Adsorbent refers to a substance that can trap other substances upon its surface. The most common example is activated charcoal. Its porous surface has plenty of tiny crevices to trap molecules. Chemical and electrostatic reactions also help attract particles and keep them bonded to the surface. Manufacturers also use different methods to produce this charcoal to make it better at attracting certain types of contaminants. According to the EPA, adsorbent air purifiers may offer safe and effective purification of gaseous and organic pollution, such as from cooking or chemicals. Like other filtering products, adsorbents have to be replaced on schedule.

Ultraviolet Light 

The EPA suggests UVGI cleaners to scrub the air of many biological contaminants. Ultraviolet light can help destroy biological impurities such as bacteria, viruses, allergens, and mold in the air. They also suggest using them with a filter and not as a replacement for a filter. Another kind of UV air purifier is called PGO. A PGO works with catalysts to convert gaseous pollutants into harmless byproducts. They don’t work on particles and should also be used with filters.

Which Kind of Air Purifier Works Best?

Indoor air pollution can pose a health risk. Keeping the home clean and ventilating with outside air may help. At the same time, it’s not always possible to clean microscopic harmful particles. Nobody wants to leave a window open if it’s hot or cold enough to need the air conditioner or furnace. Air purifiers may use filters, adsorbents, UV light, electric charges, or sometimes a combination of methods to help improve air quality. Look for high-quality and well-reviewed products that have been designed safely and effectively to address your indoor air pollution problem.

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Are Air Purifiers Worth It?

Air pollution levels have been on the rise for a long time. Not just in the US but globally. The increase in traffic, more strenuous manufacturing processes, and just a steady incline in people are all factors that have added to this dangerous climb. And while we may not be able to control the environment outside of our home, we do have the ability to change it inside.

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), some indoor air pollutant levels are as much as five times higher than outdoor air concentration levels. And when you spend a good portion of your life at home, that’s quite a scary fact to think about, especially for allergy sufferers or those with any pre-existing breathing problems. However, there are ways to improve these statistics, one of which is through the use of an air purifier.

What Are Air Purifiers Designed to Do?

The ultimate goal of an air purifier is to improve the overall air quality within the home. It’s essentially a portable air cleaning system.

Even in the most immaculate homes, dust, mold spores, and other harmful allergens accumulate, causing the air quality to diminish. This is something that can’t be helped. But what can be helped is the level at which this air is filtered, and that’s what air purifiers do. Air purifiers work by taking regular air in via a fan and filtering it through either one or several filters. As the air passes through these filters, any dust particles or pollutants are trapped, and clean air is expelled.

There are many different air purifiers on the market today. However, one thing almost all of them have in common is the filtration system. In most models, you’ll find a pre-filter that tackles the larger particles, while a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter or HEPA-type filter takes care of the smaller ones. Some air purifiers also include an activated carbon filter as part of their design, which helps to reduce unpleasant odors massively.

An air cleaner works extremely well, provided you maintain it regularly. This typically involves replacing the filter(s) regularly. However, the frequency in which these need to be replaced will vary across models and largely depend on usage. So, just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s advice on maintenance.

Some air purifiers use reusable air filters, which are extremely effective at removing large particles such as pollen and dust mites. These filters can be removed easily and washed as often as needed. The downside is in order to keep them working most efficiently, they do need a lot of regular maintenance.

Do Air Purifiers Work?

There’s a lot of proven science behind the effectiveness of air purifiers, most of which comes down to true HEPA filters. These filters are now an industry standard, and any air purifier not fitted with one should be approached with extreme caution.

HEPA filters are so effective because they use a dense arrangement of fibers to capture airborne particles from the air. Using an air purifier fitted with one of these filters in an optimal location will improve the air quality within the home ten-fold.

Here Are Just Some of the Many Benefits to be Found From Using a Good Air Purifier:

Significantly Reduces Dust Levels and Allergens

If you’re asthmatic or suffer from any kind of respiratory condition, then living in a dusty environment can be extremely dangerous. The same goes for those with dust or pet allergies. However, by using a decent air purifier, dust levels will reduce significantly, along with the number of triggering allergens. Your home will have cleaner air, and you will find yourself being able to breathe more easily. If you keep any furry friends in your home, various air purifiers are available specifically for dealing with pet dander and odors. So not only will it help you breathe better, but it will also help your home smell better.

Absorbs Damaging Chemicals

Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs for short, are essentially the gases that are emitted from a number of both indoor and outdoor sources. However, concentrations of VOCs are much higher indoors than outdoors and can come from a variety of everyday items such as cleaning supplies or paint. Having an air purifier in the home, particularly one fitted with a charcoal-based activation filter, can help absorb some of these harmful irritants, giving you much better air quality within the home.

Improve on General Household Smells

It’s not just pets that produce terrible smells. Odors in the home can come from various sources, including pungent foods, smoke particles, and dirty kids. While lighting a candle or opening a window may help to ease the whiff a little, a good air purifier will eliminate it entirely.

Are There Other Ways to Improve Air Quality in a Home?

Having good quality air to breathe is not only our right as a human, but it’s essential in order to maintain a healthy life. While an air purifier is the best solution, there are a number of other ways to improve the air quality within your home:

Ventilation is Vital

Opening a window may seem counterproductive when trying to get rid of harmful pollutants. However, in the absence of an air purifier, having the windows open prevents dust mites and allergens from building up. If at all possible, try and open windows on both sides of the room. This will create a stronger cross draft, making it more difficult for air irritants to settle.

Plants Are More Than Just Decoration

You may be surprised to know that plants have some amazing qualities for improving air quality. In 1989, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) teamed up with the Associated Landscape Contractors of America (ALCA) to conduct the Clean Air Study. It was essentially a project to find ways to clean the air in space stations. Researchers discovered that there are a number of common indoor plants that may help to do this, including bamboo Palm and English Ivy. So go green and bring a few houseplants into the fold.

Vacuum Regularly

Vacuuming is another inexpensive way of controlling the number of dust particles that accumulate within the home. As most people already own a vacuum, it’s no extra expense to simply use the one you have. If, however, you are looking for an upgrade, try and go for one that’s HEPA-certified. At least then you will have the added benefit of a decent filter.

So Are Air Purifiers Worth It & Do You Need One?

Absolutely! Regardless of whether you suffer from any respiratory problems or allergies, a good air purifier will not only improve the quality of the air you breathe, but it will help to improve the quality of your life too.  These appliances are not gimmicks and should not be seen as just another fad. There has been a lot of time and money spent on researching the benefits of using these appliances, particularly in conjunction with the HEPA air filter. And each and every time, research shows a clear reduction in the harmful irritants, pollutants, dust, and other particles in the air while using an air purifier.

While there may be a cost in the initial purchasing of an air purifier, you will need to keep replacing or cleaning the filter regularly, which may involve an additional cost. However, the health benefits to be seen from having one in your home will largely outweigh any expenditure. At the end of the day, there is no price to be put on yours or your loved ones’ lives. And if you can improve your indoor air quality significantly with just a small investment, surely, it’s worth it.

In 2018 alone, U.S. air purifier sales increased by a million units and can be found in at least one-quarter of American homes. Since indoor air can contain up to five times as many contaminants as outdoor air, it’s not hard to explain the popularity of these devices.

Air purifiers have become more popular in recent years as people have become more aware of the importance of air quality. Air purifiers are devices that clean air, removing pollutants and allergens from the environment. Not only are they beneficial for people with allergies or asthma, but they are also important for people who want to improve their overall health. In this blog post, we will discuss 12 air purifier benefits and explore the different types of filtration available.

What Are Air Purifiers and What Do They Do?

Air purifiers are devices that work to remove air pollutants. Air purifiers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they can be used for both residential and commercial purposes. Air purifiers work by drawing in contaminated air and passing it through a series of filters. Many air purifiers use a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter, which is designed to remove 99.97% of airborne particles that are 0.03 microns or larger. Air purifiers can also be equipped with activated carbon filters, which are effective at removing odors and chemicals from the air. As a result, the indoor air quality is greatly improved.

Why You Need to Use an Air Purifier Inside Your Home

There are a number of reasons why you might want to use an air purifier in your home. Air purifiers can help to remove dust, pollen, and other allergens from the air, making them an ideal choice for people who suffer from allergies or asthma. Air purifiers can also remove smoke, pet dander, and mold spores from the air. In addition, air purifiers can help to reduce the spread of germs and bacteria.

Benefits of Using an Air Purifier

Air purifiers offer a number of benefits, both for your health and for the environment. Air purifiers can help to improve your respiratory health by removing harmful particles from the air. Air purifiers can also help to improve your overall energy levels and concentration. In addition, air purifiers can help to reduce the amount of dust in your home, making it easier to keep clean.

Here Are 12 Air Purifier Benefits:

Eliminates Odors

Air purifiers that are equipped with activated carbon filters are effective at removing odors from the air. So the next time you’re cooking fried fish, or maybe your kids’ stinky socks are smelling up the place, turn on your air purifier. It will help to eliminate the odors from your home quickly and efficiently.

Removes Pet Dander and Pet Hair

If you have pets, then you know that they can shed a lot of fur and dander. Air purifiers can help to remove pet dander and pet hair from the air, making it safer for people who are allergic to animals. Even if you’re not allergic to pets, you can appreciate not breathing in your pet’s fur and dander. Plus what gets picked up in the air will be less you have to vacuum off your furniture.

Removes Asbestos

If you live in a home built before 1978, there’s a chance that it contains asbestos. Asbestos is a hazardous material that can cause serious health problems if inhaled. Air purifiers can help to remove asbestos from the air, making your home safer for you and your family.

If you suspect that your home does have asbestos, it is still a good idea to have a professional come in and remove it. Air purifiers can help to reduce the amount of asbestos in the air, but they cannot completely remove it.

Removes Indoor Air Pollutants

Indoor air pollution is a big problem, and it’s only getting worse. Homes have been found to contain higher levels of air pollutants than even the most polluted cities. Opening the windows can add to the indoor pollutants by bringing in outdoor pollutants from the outdoor air.

Air purifiers can help to remove indoor air pollution, including harmful chemicals, dust, and pollen. Indoor air pollution can cause a number of health problems, so it’s important to do what you can to have cleaner air.

Removes Smoke from Tobacco, Cooking, Wood Stoves, and Other Sources

Smoke is one of the most harmful things that you can breathe in. Air purifiers can help to remove smoke from tobacco, cooking, wood stoves, and other sources. Smoke contains a variety of harmful chemicals, including carbon monoxide and formaldehyde. Inhaling smoke can cause a number of health problems, including cancer. Air purifiers can help to reduce your risk of developing health problems by removing smoke from the air.

Reduces Transmission of Colds, Flu, and Even COVID-19

Air purifiers work by removing viruses and bacteria from the air. By reducing the amount of viruses and bacteria in the air, you can help to reduce the spread of illness. Air purifiers can also help to reduce your risk of developing a cold, flu, or other respiratory infection.

Removes Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC)

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that are released into the air from carpets, furniture, and other household items. VOCs can cause a number of health problems, including headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Air purifiers can help to remove VOCs from the air, making your home safer for you and your family.

Helps You Sleep Better

We all could use a more restful night’s sleep, and air purifiers can help you do just that. Air purifiers can help you sleep better by removing pollutants from the air, enabling you to breathe easier. Because you’re not taking in contaminants into your lungs, you feel better and more rested. Air purifiers reduce stress on your body, making you feel great when you wake up. Keep your air purifier on the lowest setting while you sleep so it doesn’t wake you or keep you up.

Removes Radon

Radon is a gas that can be found in the air in some homes. Radon is a known carcinogen, and it can cause lung cancer. Air purifiers can help remove radon from the air, making your home safer for you and your family. If you suspect you have radon in your home, be sure to have your home tested and the problem mitigated. Air purifiers can help to reduce the amount of radon in the air, but they cannot completely remove it.

Improves Seasonal Allergies

If you suffer from seasonal allergies, air purifiers can help. Air purifiers can help to remove pollen and other airborne allergens, making it easier for you to breathe. Air purifiers can also help to reduce your symptoms, such as sneezing and watery eyes.

Cuts Down on Dusting Your Home

Air purifiers can help to reduce the amount of dust in your home by trapping dust particles in the filters. This is especially beneficial for people who suffer from allergies or asthma, as it can help to reduce the number of triggering particles in the air. A bonus is that you don’t have to dust your furniture as often, thus cutting down on housework. Who couldn’t use a little help there?

Helps those with Asthma and Other Respiratory Problems Breathe Easier

Air pollution can cause a number of health problems, including respiratory problems and heart disease. Air purifiers can help to reduce your risk of developing these health problems by removing pollutants from the air.

Air purifiers can also help to improve the symptoms of respiratory conditions, such as asthma. If you or someone in your family suffers from a respiratory condition, be sure to use an air purifier in your home. Air purifiers can make a big difference in the quality of your life.

Types of Air Purifiers

Now that we’ve gone over some of the benefits of air purifiers, let’s take a look at the different types of air purifiers. Air purifiers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they use different types of filtration to clean the air. Not all air purifiers work in the same way.

HEPA Filter Air Purifiers

One of the most common types of air purifiers is the HEPA air purifier. HEPA air purifiers use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to remove pollutants from the air. HEPA filters are able to remove 99.97% of particles that are 0.03 microns in size or larger. This includes pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander. Be sure to look for an air purifier with true HEPA filters.

Activated Carbon Air Purifiers

Another type of air purifier is the activated carbon air purifier. These air purifiers use activated carbon to remove pollutants from the air. Activated carbon is able to remove a variety of pollutants, including VOCs, smoke, and odors.

Ionizer Air Purifiers

Ionizer air purifiers use ions to remove pollutants from the air. Ions are charged particles that attach to pollutants, making them too heavy to float in the air. As a result, the pollutants fall to the ground where they can be vacuumed up or removed with a damp cloth.

Ozone Air Purifiers

Ozone air purifiers use ozone to clean the air. Ozone is a gas that is able to remove pollutants from the air. However, ozone can also be harmful to your health if you breathe it in. As a result, it’s important to make sure that you choose an ozone air purifier that has a safety feature that turns the ozone off when you are in the room. Ozone generators are not recommended for use in homes with children or pets, as ozone can be harmful to their health.

Electrostatic Air Purifiers

Electrostatic air purifiers use electricity to remove pollutants from the air. These air purifiers work by charging the particles in the air and then attracting them to a metal plate. The charged particles are then removed from the air, leaving you with clean, fresh air to breathe.

Ultraviolet Light Air Purifiers

Ultraviolet light air purifiers use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses. These air purifiers are effective at reducing the spread of illness, making them a good choice for homes with young children or elderly family members.

Conclusion

Now that you know more about air purifiers, be sure to use one in your home to improve the quality of your indoor air. Air purifiers can make a big difference in your health, and they are well worth the investment. Choose the right type of air purifier for your needs, and enjoy the benefits of fresh and clean air9.

Unfortunately, air pollution is believed to be on the rise. This means that irritants, allergens, and microbes float freely in the air that we need to breathe. When we inhale these pollutants and microbe infested air into our lungs, we are likely to develop health issues. Hence the need to protect our indoor air as much as we can. To protect ourselves against the harmful effects of poor ventilation and air pollution, we must use air purifiers.

An air purifier is a device used to clean air in your home to improve air quality by removing irritants like pet dander, mold spores, dust mites, tobacco smoke, and other undesirable airborne particles. The activity of Air purifiers improve indoor air and helps individuals who may experience Asthma symptoms to fare better in small rooms or spaces. Air purifiers can be placed anywhere in the home, including common areas like the living room and dining room, or in the bedroom, for a more relaxing rest.

If you’re thinking about using an air purifier in your home, knowing how they work, what features are most important and how to optimize your use of the air purifier can help you get the most out of the experience of owning and using such a device. Here’s what you need to know so you can make a choice on the best air purifier for you.

How Does an Air Purifier Work?

There are different types of air purifiers and depending on the type, they work in different ways. The most common types have a filtration system and they work by sucking in air, circulating the air through a filter or device for cleaning, and then blowing the produced clean air back into the room. Filters for air purifiers can be made from a variety of materials including paper or fiberglass. Air filters need to be replaced periodically as they become dirty with pollutants. Failure to carry out filter replacements can force the device to work harder than necessary to clean the air, and can eventually compromise its ability to do its job as an air cleaner or air purification device. If you decide to buy air purifiers that use filters, you must budget for the periodic replacement of the filters. The annual cost of replacement filters can vary depending on the type of purifier being used and the type of filter required for that device. Also, the different types of air purifiers have different prices. Some are more expensive than others. For instance, the HEPA air purifier is more expensive than the Ionizer.

Who Needs Air Purifiers?

Indoor air quality suffers for many reasons. Common reasons for poor indoor air quality include poor ventilation, old ducts, use of chemicals in the home, or a tight building envelope that prevents the home from “breathing.” All of these features can lead to a buildup of moisture content, mold, and mold spores, dust mites, pollen, pet dander. In some homes, tobacco smoke, firewood smoke, radon, pesticides, newly installed carpeting, paint, and even asbestos can also have an effect on indoor air quality.

Almost everyone can benefit from an air purifier, but some people benefit more than others. The following are populations that benefit more from air purifiers than other people:

• Pregnant women
• Children
• Seniors
• People with allergies
• People with a compromised immune system
• Asthma sufferers
• People who live near industrial sites

You may also benefit from an air purifier if you live on a property with many trees, flowers and other plant life that produces pollen. People who have a hard time keeping a clean house can reduce the amount of dust they breathe in by using an air purifier on a regular basis.

What Are the Different Types of Air Purifiers?

Like so many other appliances, air purifiers come in different types and models. Each type of air purifier works in slightly different ways and targets different pollutants.

HEPA Air Purifiers

HEPA stands for high-efficiency particulate air. HEPA air purifiers use HEPA filters which remove much smaller particles than standard air filters. HEPA filters are often recommended for people suffering from allergies and asthma because these devices are generally very effective at removing small particles like pollen and dander. HEPA filters are also categorized into two, namely; True HEPA filters and HEPA-type filters.

True HEPA filters are of such good grade that they are graded at 99.97% efficiency. To be certified high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) a filter it must be tested shown to filter particles as small as as small as 0.3microns which is really small.. To appreciate what a HEPA filter does, it helps to understand that a micron is 1 millionth of a meter. This means it will stop most particles and microbes. Some have even argued that HEPA air purifiers can protect you from the coronavirus. However, the truth is that viruses are often smaller than bacteria. Viruses are significantly smaller than bacteria. This makes HEPA filters not as effective against viruses to the level some people suggest. HEPA filters will help filter larger particles from 0.3microns(which is still ridiculously small) upwards but any finer particles as small as some viruses get, will go through. For this reason, some room air purifiers use a technology that combines HEPA filters with anti-microbial filters or UV lights to deactivate any microbes that may be present in indoor air.

There are standards and tests distinguishing “true” HEPA filters from HEPA-type filters. The second type of HEPA filters is referred to as “HEPA-type” filters. They are not as effective as the true HEPA filters but they do an awesome job removing particles, irritants, allergens, and odor from indoor air. Their efficiency ranges from 85% to 95%.

Maintenance is important for all air purifiers. For HEPA air purifiers, the filter replacement should be carried out from time to time. Replacement filters should be available. You can make your purchases on Amazon if you please.

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UV Air Purifiers

Ultraviolet light can destroy bacteria, viruses, and pathogens in the air. UV-C light is the most useful in neutralizing microbes.

Many UV air purifiers now make use of this technology in deactivating germs or sterilizing air contaminated with microbes. These devices contain a special UV bulb in a chamber in the center of the device that produces different spectrums of UV light. UV-C is not good for any organism and as such, scientists advise caution in dealing with UV-C. The purifier passes the air through the chamber, where the light kills the bacteria. UV air purifiers can be used to kill mold spores and are especially effective for people who are allergic to mold. So, with UV air purifiers, it does not matter if the microbes are the sizes of fine particles or larger particles. Enough exposure to UV-C will do a good job.

The light bulbs in the UV air purifier chambers must be replaced, often annually, for the device to keep working.

UV air purifiers are germicidal but do nothing about the odors in small rooms.

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Ionic Air Purifier (Ionizers)

An ionic air purifier also called an Ionizer, works by emitting negative ions into the air. These ions bond with positively charged particles (like dust mites, pet dander, and bacteria). When the bond is created, the dust becomes too heavy to remain airborne and falls out of the air. Some air purifiers work by trapping the particles inside the device to be cleaned out later. Some models are self-cleaning, others must be cleaned regularly in order to maintain functionality.

Ionizers, however, have a bit of a bad reputation due to the activities of another device known as the “Ozone generator”. Ozone generators produce Ozone in quantities that are unsafe for people. The aim is to bond air particles with ozone so they can get heavy and drop to the ground. But the Ozone itself is more likely to harm you than the pollen or other particles that need to be cleaned. This is why many states, Health Organizations, and even the Environmental protection Agency warn against air purifiers that produce Ozone.

Unfortunately for the Ionizer, it produces small harmless levels of Ozone as its by-product during the process of air purification and this is due to the negative charges it releases. Also, marketers and producers of Ozone generators often market them as Ionizers, creating a bad name for Ionizers.

If you choose to get an Ionizer, be sure that you have not bought an Ozone generator instead. Buy from reliable and reputable sources. If you can get an expert to go with you to help make the choice, even better.

For maintenance, you should clean the Ionizer regularly. Some have collection plates that will need to be cleaned regularly.

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Activated Carbon Air Purifiers

Activated carbon air purifiers are designed to remove odors from smoke and fumes inside the home, but do not help with viruses, bacteria, allergies, pet dander, and dust. Activated carbon air purifiers work by using activated carbon, usually charcoal to carry out adsorption, trapping pollutant particles in the pores of the carbon structure. These appliances help people who live close to industrial sites and landfills, where odors can decrease the quality of life. Some activated carbon air purifiers also contain a HEPA filter to remove dander. Activated Carbon purifiers are not as effective as HEPA air purifiers. Carbon filters work on particles ranging between 0.5microns to 50microns. 

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Buying an Air Purifier? What to Watch For

If you’re buying an air purifier, do your research before purchasing a model for your home. Watch for the following:

• Filter price and recommended replacement rate. Find out through consumer reports and manufacturer notes how often an air purifier’s parts (like the air filter or UV bulb) need to be replaced, and how much those parts cost. This will help you decide whether you can afford to maintain that particular air purifier.
• No ozone. Some ionic air purifiers (Ozone generators passed off as Ionizers) produce ozone in unsafe quantities. This gas can irritate the lungs. Check the packaging information to ensure the purifier you buy does not produce ozone in harmful concentrations. It cannot be stressed enough. On no condition should you get an ozone generator. It does not work effectively and it puts your health at risk. Even if you get it for free, it’s a “penny wise, pound foolish” deal.
• CADR (clean-air delivery rating). The CADR rating indicates how fast the purifier will work. The best devices have a rating of 300 or more. Choose one with a rating that suits your room size, ensuring quick distribution of purified air and reducing air pollution. At the end of the day, to feel and benefit from the effects of an air purifier, the air purifier has to distribute and clean air fast enough to ventilate the room properly.
• Sizing. Measure the space where the purifier will be operating, then find a model that is properly fitted for that size.

Check for certifications as well. The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers is an association designed to ensure the efficiency of a home appliance like an air purifier. Buying an air purifier with AHAM’s logo ensures that this device is certified, effective, and reputable.

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Do They Really Work?

A Havard-Medical school professor of Otolaryngology recommends a well-chosen air purifier for anyone who has allergies and who lives with allergens in their home. Pet owners in particular may find air purifiers to be an effective way to eliminate pet dander and other airborne particles that can affect the quality of life. Air purifiers are most effective if the consumer buys a well-rated device that is designed to eliminate the specific pollutants they need to eliminate. By doing research and reading online reviews, consumers can choose the best device for them.

While the topic of air pollution is quite a hot one and has been for the past few decades, most conversations that take place focus on the environment and the air quality outside of our homes. However, indoor air quality can be just as bad as that outside, if not worse. The difference is that inside, we have the opportunity to change that via way of a good air filtration system.

If you’ve never owned an air purifier before, and never really read up about them, when you do go to look for one, it can be a little daunting with all the terminology and acronyms like HEPA, MERV, and CADR that are thrown around. In this guide, we hope to put some of those burning questions to bed and explain a little more about what some of these terms refer to.

HEPA-Type Filters Explained 

HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air. It’s a kind of filter that’s found in most good air purifiers and vacuum cleaners and is very effective at trapping unwanted airborne particles. However, not all contaminants are captured. Particle size plays a big part here.

Filters that are deemed to meet the HEPA standard are those that are capable of removing 99.97% of all particles that are 0.3 microns or larger in size. Microns refer to the unit of measurement for particles and is the equivalent of one-millionth of a meter. Dust mites tend to be between 1-10 microns in size, although some can be much smaller.

A HEPA filter is made out of a series of pleated fibers. These fibers are often made out of glass fibers (otherwise known as fiberglass) or some kind of polypropylene or polyester non-woven fabric material and are held together in a frame. The most common type of frames used are those made from either plastic or cardboard. Quite often they will also feature a rubber or foam seal in which to prevent air from escaping.

The aim of a HEPA filtration system is to remove both small and large particles from the air. While larger particles such as pet hair and pet dander are a pain, they aren’t usually as harmful to you as smaller contaminants such as bacteria or viruses. And therefore, these are normally taken care of by way of a pre-filter.

Depending on the size of the contaminants, it depends on how it’s trapped. Larger particles are trapped by way of inertial impaction and sieving. These particles either get trapped on their own or they collide with other fibers which then get stuck trying to passing through the fibers. Medium-sized particles are seized by the fibers via interception. While smaller particles are diffused as they pass through the filter.

Air Filter Rating System Explained 

When looking to buy an air purifier, one term you’ll see around a lot is MERV. MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value and is essentially the quickest way to find out how effective an air purifier really is.  It’s a scale that was developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) back in 1987 and ranges from 1-20. The higher the rating, the less that can pass through it.

Simple dust filters tend to have a MERV rating of around 1-4. And while these are good for filtering out things like human hair and large dust particles, they have very little effect when it comes to removing smaller contaminants. Air filters with a MERV rating between 5-8 are generally your lower end disposal filters. These are slightly better and will filter things such as mold spores, and certain chemicals, they still aren’t very good at dealing with small particles. Air filters with a rating between 9-13 are better, especially when dealing with fumes, but still not really fit for use at home.

Really, when looking for an air purifier to use within the home, you should aim for one that has a MERV rating of 14+. Those that range between MERV 14-16 are capable of filtering up to 95% of particles 0.3 microns or larger. Which is not bad. They’re good for eliminating small and medium particles, as well as dust and mold spores. And, they’re good for anyone who suffers with low-moderate allergies.

However, if you’re someone who suffers from any high levels of allergies or any breathing conditions such as asthma or COPD, you should be looking to invest in an air purifier that has the best level of effectiveness. In which case you need to be looking at either a true HEPA filter or a ULPA filter.

A true HEPA filter has a MERV rating of 17+ and is the most common type used in air purifiers today. These filters are good for allergens and are very effective at removing mold spores, pollen, dust mites, and other microscopic contaminants. A ULPA (ultra-low particulate air) filter is the highest rated of them all and has a MERV rating of 18+. A filter of this caliber can remove even the smallest of particles with the greatest of efficiency. However, these filters don’t come cheap and are often only found in places such as clean rooms or biosafety cabinets.

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Are HEPA Filters Washable? 

Yes….., some of them.

As you can probably imagine, HEPA air filters come in all kinds of shapes and sizes. In addition to that, they also vary in whether or not they are washable. Both the washable and washable types have their pros and cons, some of which we’ll go through here.

Washable HEPA filters

These consist of thick fibers that have been designed to get wet. The benefit of using these filters is you can wash them as often as you’d like and they will last quite a long time. However, just be aware that the more they are washed, the less effective they will become. So, while you want to make sure they stay clean enough to do the job, you don’t want to put more wear into them than needed. The other downside is the hassle of removing the filter, giving it a clean down and a rinse, and popping it back in your device.

Non-washable HEPA filters

While you will no doubt spend more money when using non-washable HEPA filters, they do have their advantages. The first is that you don’t need to keep scrubbing them, and they will still last a very long time. However, you can prolong their life a little longer by giving them a quick vacuum every now and then. And while it is still a bit of a pain having to remove the filter, at least there’s no scrubbing involved as there is with the washable kind.

Things to Consider Before Buying a HEPA Filter

You should now that you have a pretty good understanding of how HEPA filters work and why they’re so effective. So, in this section, we’ll go through some of the things to consider before making your next HEPA filter purchase:

Room Size

Before you part with any money, the most important factor to consider when buying an air purifier is whether or not it will be effective in the space you want to place it. Once you’ve decided on where it’s going, the next step is to get the room’s measurements. Any air purifier that’s worth investing in, will tell you the maximum room size it’s capable of filtering. Never buy an air purifier that’s too powerful for the room it’s going as is just a waste of energy. On the flip side, don’t get one that can’t handle the size of the room it’s going in.

CADR

Another factor to bear in mind is the air purifier’s Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR). This metric was developed by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) and essentially refers to the volume of filtered air a device can deliver. It is only ever measured in the highest fan speed but is a good indication as to how much filtered air you’ll get. The CADR scale ranges from 0-450 and is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). However, any air purifier with a CADR rating of less than around 300, really isn’t worth its money. Just remember that the higher the CADR rating, the more powerful the fans are.

Activated Carbon Filter

While HEPA filters are exceptionally good at removing contaminants from the air, they’re not very good at tackling odors. Therefore, a lot of good quality HEPA filters are used in conjunction with activated carbon filters. These filters were designed specifically to remove gas and odors from the air. And while they don’t make any real difference in terms of dealing with larger airborne particles, they are fantastic when it comes to filtering out cigarette smoke, mold spores, or even those lingering pet smells.

UV-C Light

There is a wide range of air purifiers on the market today, all varying in performance, budget, and features and functions. And while many of these are just added extras to enhance the user experience, one feature that is thought to make a difference is the addition of a UV-C light. When used correctly, this form of ultraviolet light can be very effective in killing germs, mold, bacteria, and more. The downside is that UV-C light is the most dangerous form for humans and other living organisms.

It works by destroying the nucleic acids in cells, and as a result, disrupts the DNA. This causes the cell to become incapacitated or die. Air purifiers that use UV-C lights first draw the air in through a filter of some kind. Then, as air passes through the purifier’s chamber it’s subjected to the UV light. With a design such as this, there’s no releasing of the UV light into the room, so exposure is prohibited.

We hope you found the above useful. There isn’t really much to HEPA filters when you break it down. But as simple as they are, they are highly effective air cleaning machines that require very little maintenance other than a replacement filter every now and then. You can pick a decent one up for less than $200, and once you’ve got one, you’ll never look back as you sit back, relax, and breathe in air cleaner than you ever have!