Category: Air Purifiers

Unless treated, the indoor air many of us breathe is far from pure. In fact, most people would be quite horrified to know exactly how many pollutants and impurities there are around them. When it comes to improving the indoor air quality we come into contact with every day another important factor is the humidity in the air.

The ideal solution for both of these problems is getting the best air purifier and humidifier combination.

In this guide we take a look at how to find the best solution for your needs and take you through the details of some of the leading options available. In turn we hope this will allow you to make an informed decision for better air quality and optimal humidity.

What to Consider Before Buying an Air Purifier Humidifier Combo

There are many benefits to buying an air purifier and humidifier combination appliance. They are both important for good indoor air quality and will clean the air and keep the humidity at healthy levels throughout the year. A combination device will save space and save you some money. Why buy two separate devices when one can do both functions? Some even have additional features adding even more value.

A quality air purifier should remove most of the dust, pollen, allergens, germs, pet dander, dust mites and other pollutants from the air. This will help to reduce allergy symptoms and create a healthier environment. Many of them are also effective at removing bad odors. Some also allow you to add essential oils that smell great and have a range of benefits.

When looking for the ideal model, there are a number of important factors to consider:

• Efficiency

The efficiency relates to how well the unit cleans the air and removes impurities as well as the performance of the humidifier. Some are designed to work in small rooms while others are able to work well in large rooms or bigger areas. It is important to understand the coverage of the air purifier to ensure that it will be suitable for the area you intend to use it in.

The technology used will determine the amount of pollutants the device will remove from the air and the size of the particles it is effective on. Some work faster than others and checking the energy star and CADR certificated ratings for any chosen device is important.

• Filter system

There are different types of filters available and some use alternative types of technology to clean the air without the use of a filter. A true HEPA filter is one of the most popular options and is extremely efficient. Electrostatic and activated carbon filters are also popular while an ionizer is another way of purifying the air. Often, a range of replacement filters are used together to maximize efficiency.

UV sanitizers are another option that work well with air filters. The UV light helps to get rid of bacteria and viruses. It is also important to note that some filters are more effective at eliminating odors than others. If this is important, look for one that does the job well and consider how often you will need to invest in a filter replacement.

• Size and looks

While the purifier and humidifier is not a feature of the room you don’t want it to be an eyesore. Look for one that is relatively compact and fits in with the style and size of the room it will be used in. Most combo appliances have a modern sleek look while others are more conservative. Pick a style that suits your tastes and the look of the environment.

• Noise

Noisey household appliances can be irritating so you ideally want a device that makes as little noise as possible. This is especially important if the air purifier is used to be used in a bedroom. Many of the devices we reviewed have a sleep mode which is extremely quiet. Some also allow for the lights to be dimmed or turned off at night for an even better sleeping experience.

• Ease of use and maintenance

Look for an air purifier and humidifier that is user-friendly and does not require maintenance. Sure they all require that you top up the water and clean them from time to time but some make this a lot easier than others.

• Consider ongoing costs

The initial purchase price is not the entire cost as most will require that you replace the filter or filters at some point. With some models, this can work out to be a significant cost while others are extremely affordable.

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Reviews of the Best Air Purifier Humidifier Combo Systems

BONECO – Air Washer W200 Humidifier & Purifier

This stylish and elegant two in one unit will give you clean healthy air while humidifying the air at the same time. It has a rotating evaporator mat that delivers the optimal humidify while the water it passes through also removes dust, pollen, and other contaminants in the air. This is a safe, natural, and effective way to clean the air.

It has a day or night mode. Day mode will allow it to work hard to achieve healthy air and night mode will quietly maintain the air condition for a peaceful sleep. The W200 is energy efficient and uses very little power to do its job. For safety, it will automatically switch off when the water tank is empty and will alert you when a refill is required.

The W200 is manufactured in Switzerland and is well made from quality materials. It is built to last. It will be effective in rooms up to around 550 square feet. It is easy to fill the water reservoir and the settings and controls are user-friendly. The unit is easy to clean although this does need to be done frequently. One can also add essential oils in the built-in fragrance container. There are many oils with a wide range of added benefits. They will also give the room a pleasant smell.

This is a popular option from Boneco and many people like the natural operation and the effectiveness of the W200. It is great for those that suffer from allergies and those that want clean air with the right humidity.

Pros:

• Natural water-based air purifier and humidifier
• Day and night mode for optimal air conditions
• Low energy consumption
• Empty water tank shut off feature
• Compact unit
• Attractive modern design
• Durable and reliable
• Dedicated essential oil container

Cons:

• Needs to be cleaned regularly
• The humidifier takes a while to work
• Somewhat expensive

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Dreval D-950 Air Purifier and Humidifier

DrevalAir is a USA based company that has been making quality air filtration systems and related technology for more than 15 years. The D-950s is a highly effective and hard-working combination humidifier and air purifier. It uses an impressive 5 filter system to ensure maximum performance and ensure clean healthy indoor air with minimal odor.

The air purifier uses a range of technologies for outstanding air cleaning results. The true HEPA filter works together with a cold catalyst filter and a Negative Ion generator. There is also a carbon filter as well as an antimicrobial filter. Not much can get past that formidable combination. It will work well on 99.9% of pollutants in the air while eradicating odors. The odor sensor actively monitors odors and pollutants in the air and can automatically adjust the fan speed accordingly.

The air quality is displayed by LED lights allowing you to see the quality at a glance. Green indicates that the air is good, orange is normal, and red indicates that it is poor quality. The D-950 also features a UV Sterilization Lamp. This will work on certain odors while also killing microorganisms. While cleaning the air the ultrasonic humidifier will keep the humidity at optimal levels.

Controlling the unit manually is a breeze. The controls are simple and user-friendly allowing you to get the ideal settings for the environment. There is an extremely quiet sleep mode but some may find it a bit noisy on higher settings. There is also a mist mode and a UV sterilizer mode.

It has a compact design that is stylish and elegant. This air purifier and humidifier will work well in many areas of the home or office. It will rid the air of odors, smoke, dust, germs, viruses, bacteria, allergens, pet dander, and a range of other airborne impurities.

Pros:

• 5 Filter system for maximum air cleaning
• Highly effective on odors
• Odor and pollutant detector adjusts fan speed automatically
• LED air quality display
• Ultrasonic humidifier
• UV Sterilization Lamp

Cons:

• Can be a bit loud on high speed
• Some found the LCD too bright (does have a sleep mode with dimmed light)

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Envion by Boneco – Four Seasons FS200 – 4in1 Air Purifier, Heater, Fan & Humidifier

This is another great option from Boneco and is a 4-in-one device. This means that it is an air purifier, a humidifier, a fan as well as a heater. This allows you to save space and money by having all these functions built into one device. It also makes the unit handy throughout the year as the seasons change. Despite all the functionality it is relatively compact. It has a good looking tower design.

The filter is a true HEPA filter so you know you will get quality air cleaning from the FS200. The ceramic heater is a handy function when the temperature drops. Heaters often dry the air so having one combined with a humidifier is particularly beneficial. The air purifier will remove odors, viruses, germs, bacteria, pet dander, smoke, mold, and other airborne pollutants. It is effective in medium to larger rooms up to 300 square feet. It will clean the air roughly three times per hour.

You have complete control over the functions and it is easy to use. Different functions can be used at the same time and are independently controlled. This will allow you to achieve the perfect air, humidity, and temperature in the room. Another benefit of the heater function is that it sterilizes air that comes from the HEPA filter for even better air quality.

At low speeds, the FS200 operates quietly. It is suitable for many spaces at home or at the office. Given all the functionality of this model, you get a lot of bang for your buck.

Pros:

• 4-In-1 Functionality
• Fan
• True HEPA filter
• Ceramic heater
• Empty water LED warning lights and automatic shut down
• User-friendly
• Compact tower design
• Value for money

Cons:

• Not the most durable materials
• No remote control
• The water reservoir could be larger
• Topping up with water can be tricky

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Venta LW25 Airwasher 2-in-1 Humidifier and Air Purifier

This German-manufactured air washer will purify the air and act as a humidifier. It is suitable for larger spaces up to 400 square meters. It will remove pet dander, pollen, dust, allergens, and other pollutants in the air.

Air is pulled in and rotating disks capture the contaminants and pollutants in the air. This is safe and effective. It is also relatively low maintenance.

The LW25 has a generous 2-gallon water reservoir. There is a level indicator as well as a safety shutoff when the water runs out. No ozone or white dust is produced so it is safe and the humidifier gets to work extremely quickly. The appliance is quiet at all levels and the unit comes with a good 10-year warranty, ticking many of the boxes we looked to cover in our review.

Although many find this to be an effective air purifier some would be better off with a true HEPA filter. It depends on your needs and the quality of your air.

It is a compact unit with a basic design that is not exactly attractive but certainly not unpleasant. It will probably go unnoticed in many living areas which is a good thing for those that want their device to blend in with its surroundings. The technology allows it to be fairly quiet making it great for offices, bedrooms or living rooms. It is light and easy to move from room to room if necessary.

The unit is also extremely easy to use with three adjustable fan speeds according to your needs, a fault light if there is a problem, and a power button.

Another benefit of the LW25 Airwasher is that it does not use much power.

Pros:

• Good coverage
• 10-Year warranty
• Large water reservoir
• Fairly low maintenance
• Operates quietly
• Compact and portable
• Low power usage

Cons:

• Looks somewhat industrial
• Relativity expensive
• Cost of Venta water disinfectant will add up
• No timer

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Oreck WK15500B Air Refresh 2-in-1 Hepa Air Purifier & Ultrasonic Humidifier

If you are looking for a quality air purifier and humidifier combo the Oreck WK15500B is a popular choice. It uses a 2-stage filter with both a charcoal filter as well as a true HEPA filter that will eliminate 99% of the impurities in the air. It is also effective at removing odors. The device will leave the air free of allergens and pollutants and it will smell great.

Although the quality filters are effective they will need to be replaced from time to time. This will ensure the device works at peak performance for the best healthy indoor air.

The humidifier is ultrasonic and emits a mist of cool air for an optimal moisture quantity. You can adjust the humidifier to set it at the optimal rate for your space. If you prefer, you can use the humidistat. This will determine the humidity of the room and adjust automatically.

The compact unit has a streamlined appearance and a small footprint. The dimensions are  10 x 10.5 x 29 inches. This model is designed for use in small rooms and is ideal for a bedroom or nursery. What also helps in these environments is that it is super quiet so it will not disturb you or baby at night. It is also great in a den or office.

The unit is user-friendly and easy to set up and use. It has an indicator that will tell you when the filters need replacing or how much life they have remaining. A common problem with humidifiers is running out of water so the water indicator comes in very handy when a refill is required. Both of these features are clear and easy to see and will ensure your Oreck WK15500B works at optimal performance.

Pros:

• Effective two-stage filtration
• Eliminates odors
• Compact modern design
• Adjustable or automatic ultrasonic humidifier
• Low noise
• Easy to operate
• Filter and water tank indicator

Cons:

• Small water reservoir
• Only suitable for small areas
• Replacement filters can be costly over time

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SHARP KC860U PlasmaCluster Air Purifier Humidifier

Sharp is a trusted brand and has a solid reputation for quality products that are reliable and good value for money. The KC860U works well in small to medium rooms up to about 341 sq. ft.

This advanced air cleaner and humidifier uses  Plasmacluster Ion Technology, something that Sharp has patented. This is a more natural and highly effective filtration system that mimics how air is cleaned in nature. This is done by creating positive and negatively charged ions in the existing water vapor content of the air. This allows the PlasmaCluster to safely remove ultra-small particles from the air for pure clean indoor air.

This filtration system has been used extensively and the effectiveness has been proved worldwide. It can do more than most traditional filter systems and is particularly effective in combating many airborne viruses. The CADR certificated rating is good and it is effective against dust, smoke, pollen, and many other contaminants in the air. Another benefit of this technology is that it is highly effective on many odors that other filter systems have difficulty with.

The Sharp KC860U uses 3 filters for optimal air cleaning and odor reduction. It has an activated carbon filter that will help with many odors in the room and a microscreen pre-filter that is washable and works on larger pollutants and particles in the air as well as dust. Lastly, it has a true HEPA filter which will eliminate 99.97% of smaller particles as small as 0.3 microns.

Another benefit is that the system produces significantly less ozone than many other products, up to five times less. It is ARB certified.

The unit has smart sensors and will keep an eye on the humidity, dust and odor levels at all times. The display will clearly show the quality. If you use the KC860U in AUTO mode, it will adjust according to these levels for ideal air conditions with minimal hassle.

Pros:

• Triple filtration system
• Natural and effective Plasmacluster Ion Technology
• Can eliminate many airborne viruses
• Effective odor control
• Good CADR rate
• Smart sensors
• Auto mode adjusts according to air quality

Cons:

• Water container could be larger
• Some found it to be noisy at times

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Final Thoughts

Quality air is essential for the good health and well being of your family, guests, and work colleagues. While some certain indoor areas are better than others, most indoor air is unfortunately of poor quality.

Using the best air purifier and humidifier combination will not only clean the air but also ensure that the humidification is maintained at an optimal level. This will prevent many health issues and help to reduce dry air and will prevent dry skin too.

We hope this guide has given you the information you require in order to select the best device for your needs.

One of the most important tasks for ensuring that your indoor air quality is of a high standard is cleaning your home air filter.

We understand, your life is busy enough anyway without going out of your way to burden you week with cleaning your air filter, but needs must and of course, you want to ensure your air purifier filter is producing as clean air as possible.

Cleaning your filter regularly will ensure it’s working effectively; otherwise, why invest in an air purifier at all? This task is also particularly important if you live in an area with high levels of air pollution which can lead to larger particles making their way into the air.

The cleaning process we detail in this guide will remove the dust and dirt that collects on the air purifier filter as well as pre-filter.

These airborne particles will gradually begin to attach to your home air purifier filter, reducing the filter’s ability to clean effectively. In turn this can deteriorate the quality of your indoor air.

Clean or Replace the Filter?

Depending on the type of filter in your air purifier, you may need to remove the filter and replace it, or if you have opted for a washable filter (either intentionally or by chance), you will need to wash it regularly.

The critical question is if you aren’t entirely sure, how do you know which type of air purifier filter you have in your home?

The best thing you can do is consult the manual of your or air purifier or HVAC unit (if relevant). The manual should give you a good idea of whether you have the type of unit that requires you to replace the filtering system or just clean it. Disposable filters usually work for a few months before needing to be replaced; you will likely notice a deterioration in performance before you need to change it or your purifier will have a built-in system to notify you when it is time to do so. You’ll want to check if it’s a carbon filter too because many of the best air purifiers have them, and they are likely to require filter replacement.

We do not recommend that you clean and wash a disposable filter, as it can start to collect mold and mildew, doing more harm than good, especially in the long term.

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How to Clean an Air Purifier Filter – Step-By-Step Guide

Now that you’ve established what type of air filter you have, it’s time to start taking action. If it’s a disposable filter, then you will want to remove the filter and replace it. If it’s a washable filter, then great news – simply follow this step-by-step guide and you’ll be done in no time.

You’re going to need the following tools and accessories:

• Hot water and some cleaning solution or liquid dishwasher soap
• A vacuum cleaner.
• Sponge or brush.
• Drying clothes.
• Ladder (if it’s an HVAC)
• Screwdriver

It is important to make sure the system you’re cleaning is turned off before you start to clean.

Step# 1: Open the Filter Cover

Some, or most, home filters, will have a filter cover or a latch. Use a screwdriver to open that cover and remove it. Some lids can be removed without a screwdriver, while you will need to open others with a screwdriver. You will want to give this filter housing a quick wash with some hot water and a sponge.

Step# 2: Locate the Filter

The next step is to find the air filter you’re looking to clean. Some air purifier filters are part of multiple air filters, so you might need to remove other filters first. Before you remove the filter from the vent, you will want to perform a quick vacuum to ensure the dirt and the dust on the bottom of the filter are removed to avoid the mess dropping on to your carpet or flooring.

Step# 3: Remove the Filter and Vacuum It

Once you have found the right air filter, you’ll want to take it out of the system and inspect it more closely. If it’s especially dirty and dusty, then it will need a more thorough cleaning. In some cases, vacuuming the filter quickly might be enough to get the dirt, pet hair, and dust off.

However, in most cases, you’ll have to be more thorough than that. Only use the vacuum if you perform air filter maintenance regularly (which you should be). Also, it depends on the type of filter, for example, the HEPA filter.

Step# 4: Cleaning Your Air Filter

Now it’s the time to clean the filter. Use the sponge or brush and dip it into the hot water. It’s best to use a soft cloth and warm soapy water. Then, once you do that, you will want to add some solution for cleaning or soap to the water to make the process more effective. Clean it twice and leave the filter outside. Again, before you wash it, check if it’s non-washable, or you’ll damage it and need a replacement filter.

Step# 5: Let the Filter Dry Completely

Now you will want to ensure your air filter is completely dry before you move it back into the system. First, use the drying cloth to get rid of the water and make the filter drier. Then, leave the filter standing to let the water dry out completely.

Step# 6: Reinstall the Air Filter

Once it has dried completely, you can start reinstalling the filter. Put all the parts back in place and ensure that your air filter is the last one that goes in (place them in the way that your system demands). Make sure you take the time to ensure it’s re-installed properly. Indoor air pollution is no joke, and you want your home air purifier to be working effectively to stave off airborne particles and mold spores, especially if you have a large room.

How Often should you  Clean Air Filters?

We hope you now know how you can clean your air filter. But how often will you need to clean it?

The frequency that you clean your air purifier filter will also depend on if anyone in your family suffers from allergens as well as if there is pet dander or dust mites to deal with? The harder the air filter has to work, the more often it will need cleaning.

Ideally, we would recommend you clean it every 1-3 months, depending on how quickly it accumulates dirt. This will ensure that the performance of the filtration system is optimal and good enough to keep your indoor air clean.

Conclusion

So there you have it, this is how you can clean your air home filter with ease. You don’t need to be an engineer to do it; you can do it by following these simple steps.

The goal of cleaning your air purifier is to ensure you keep the permanent filter quality as high as possible. It’s much cheaper to clean your air purifier filter regularly than it is to find a new filter, especially if it’s a true Hepa filter.

Over the past few decades, air pollution levels across the United States (and the rest of the world) have continued to rise significantly. This is due to various factors including a rise in the number of vehicles on the road and a rise in manufacturing levels. Although ultimately, it’s down to the increase in pollution and inadequate measures of dealing with it.

According to the World Health Organization, air pollution kills around 7 million people per year across the globe, and as many as 90% of us are breathing air that contains a high level of pollutants.

While you may not have much control over the air you breathe outside of your home, there are key steps you can take to improve the air quality within your home, one of which is investing in an air-purifying system.

Best Home Air Purifier Buyers Guide – What to Look for When Making Your Purchase

Once you’ve made the decision to invest in a HEPA air purifier for the home, you won’t look back. There’s nothing quite like walking into a room that you know has clean air.

However, before you do compete your purchase, there are a few things to bear in mind to ensure you get the best model to suit your needs:

• Size of the device vs. size of the room: This is quite possibly the most important thing to consider when making your purchase as you need to ensure the air purifier you buy is powerful enough to filter the room you’re looking to put it in. In addition to that you need to make sure the room is big enough for the model you want to buy. Don’t worry if you do have limited space as there are air purifiers available to suit pretty much any size. While some are small and tall, others are wall mountable. So regardless of the free space you have, you can still benefit from breathing fresh and filtered air.
• Remote control: While most air purifiers work pretty fast, some people prefer to filter the air in a room before they enter in. If this is a feature you’re interested in, you need to look for a model that’s controllable remotely. A lot of these devices offer this as standard, with many of them now also compatible with the likes of Amazon’s Alexa or Apple’s Siri.
• Filter replacement reminder: This is another feature that’s thankfully found on most air purifiers, in one way or another. While some will display a real-time filter indicator letting you know how long it has left to last allowing you time to go and purchase replacement filters, others will simply indicate when they need changing, so you need to be prepared in advance with these models. Some of the top-spec models include a feature that automatically orders a replacement for you, which is awesome. Just be aware that you will of course pay extra to enjoy this kind of functionality.
• Air quality indicator: As well as being able to control the air quality in the home, some systems are equipped with an air quality indicator that lets you know just how clean (or not so clean) the room is. Most air purifiers that are equipped with this system are also controllable via Wi-Fi, so if the room is particularly dirty you can give it a blast before you even enter. Many modern air purifiers now also come complete with an eco-mode so be sure to look for an energy star rating when making a purchase.
• Clean air delivery rate (CADR): The CADR is the rate at which the air purifier can produce clean air and overseen by the association of home appliance manufacturers (AHAM). A high-efficiency air purifier is one that can deliver a minimum of 200 cubic feet per minute or more.

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Top Rated Air Purifiers for Your Home

So now you have an idea as to what to consider before making your next air purifier purchase, here are some of the best models around that are an excellent choice for improving your indoor air quality.

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Best Home Air Purifier Overall

RabbitAir MinusA2

The RabbitAir Minus2 is definitely one of the higher-end air purifiers out there. Not only does it ooze class and sophistication, but it’s also versatile and very technologically advanced. And when it comes to the actual filtering of indoor air, this device is nothing short of amazing. With both of these factors combined, you can see why it’s a lot of people’s (and our) top pick.

It features an advanced filtration system that consists of 6 stages, including a BioGS HEPA-type filter which effectively traps 99.97% of microscopic allergens and particles and a charcoal-based activated carbon filter in which to tackle chemicals and common household odors in addition to a pre-filter and medium filter. The other filter it contains is customized to best suit your needs. Those to choose from include a Germ Defense filter, a Toxin Absorber filter, a Pet Allergy filter, and an Odor Remover filter.

The final stage of the filtration system features a negative ion generator that helps purify the air further. It does this by producing negative ions that latch on to airborne particles, weighing them down, allowing them to get captured much easier by the air purifier’s filters. While this is a very effective feature, it does produce a tiny amount of ozone when in use. Therefore, some people choose to operate the device with the generator switched off.

In terms of capability, the RabbitAir Minus 2 can effectively filter a room of up to 815 square feet in size in just 30 minutes. And in terms of versatility, what doesn’t it offer? There’s a customizable panel featuring images such as Snoopy, Vincent Van Gogh, or Hello Kitty. It’s Wi-Fi compatible so you can connect and control your device from anywhere, and it can be mounted on the wall with ease if need be.

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Best Home Air Purifier for Technology Lovers

Winix AM90

It may be the most basic of the Winix ensemble, but the AM90 still has quite a lot going on, both inside and out. This air purification system is effective, affordable, and easy on the eye. And it has a CADR rating of 233 for dust, 240 for pollen, and 230 for smoke.

One of the machine’s most prominent features is that it uses plasma wave technology to effectively break down all those harmful allergens, dust mites, pet hair, and dander floating around, contaminating your air. This function is effectively a kind of ionizer and can be turned on or off as you please.

The Winix AM90 has an AHAM verified room size of up to 360 square feet, meaning any room bigger than that it will not clean effectively. However, the space that it does filter, it does very well thanks to its 4-stage filtration system which includes a fine mesh pre-filter, an odor-absorbing carbon filter, a True HEPA filter, and of course, the start of the show, the Winix PlasmaWave Technology filter.

It’s also Alexa compatible, meaning you don’t even need to get up to control it. And, with the Amazon Dash Replenishment feature, you’ll never run low on filters as they will be ordered automatically. On the subject of smart technology, it’s also equipped with smart sensors that continuously monitor the air quality within your home and adjust the fan speed accordingly to ensure you always have a fresh air supply.

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Best for Large Rooms 

Coway AirMega 400S

Not only does this machine look like something that’s just come out of a show home, but it also performs like one too. Capable of filtering rooms up to 1,560 square feet in size, the Coway AirMega 400S is a true force to be reckoned with in the world of air purifiers.

Using powerful suction technology, this large room air purifier effectively draws in contaminated air from two sides before expelling it out the top. This enables much faster cleaning of your air. The device uses a Max2 filter that combines an activated carbon filter with that of a True HEPA filter to give an end result that’s capable of reducing up to 99.97% of pollen particles, viruses, allergens, and other irritants.

There’s a filter indicator to let you know when it’s time to change the Max2 filters or when the pre-filters could do with a clean. Both of these are based on the machine’s usage and are pretty effective. Another helpful feature this device has to offer is its Smart Mode function. With this feature intact, the air purifier automatically adjusts its fans to be able to clean the room to the highest quality. So, in a room where the air is particularly dirty or dusty, the fans will go much faster than if in a room that’s kept clean. This is a great money-saving feature as the fans will only ever work as hard as they need to. So, no unnecessary wastage of energy! Yaay!

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Best for Advanced Features 

IQAir GC MultiGas

Here we have another super powerful air purifier. The IQAir GC Multigas is capable of filtering rooms of up to 1,125 square feet in size. So, while it’s not quite as powerful as the Coway AirMega 400S, it’s still a worthy competitor.

This mighty air purifier takes the process of filtering indoor air to a whole new level through the use of HyperHEPA filtration technology. Ultrafines make up 90% of all airborne particles. And while they are the smallest of them all, they’re also one of the deadliest types, with the ability to adversely affect the lungs and other vital organs. Ultrafines have also been linked to heart attacks, asthma, and strokes.

Another fantastic feature this device has to offer is that’s it’s been made using IQAir’s patented triple-seal technology. With this in place, all individual seals are made airtight so that no air escapes unfiltered. It also has a new edition fan that’s very cost-effective. Even on its highest setting it uses just 215 watts. Onn its lowest, it uses as little as 27 watts and could be considered it’s eco mode.

You get 6 fan speeds to choose from this device and it operates at a noise level that’s not much higher than that of a whisper when on the lowest setting. There’s also an EvenFlow Diffuser that provides 320-degree air delivery and color-coded lights that indicate when you need to change one of the air filters.

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Best for Small Rooms 

Honeywell AirGenius 6

The Honeywell AirGenius 6 is one of the most popular True HEPA air purifiers on the market at the moment, and for good reason. Not only is it one of the better designed, and better-looking models out there, it’s also very effective for such a compact machine. Measuring in at 9.9” x 9.92” x 26.81, you don’t need a lot of floor space for this device. It’s capable of cleaning the air in a room size of up to 260 square feet and can do this in as little as 12 minutes.

There are 6 air cleaning levels featured on this machine. And together, they are effective at capturing up to 99.9% of harmful particles, allergens, and other irritants in the air such as smoke, pet dander, dust mites, and pollen. It’s also effective at helping to reduce airborne germs such as mold spores, bacteria, and viruses.

By downloading the Air Cleaner app, you get instant access to a whole load of enhanced features including an allergen alert that lets you know when pollen or other allergen levels are particularly high in your area, a customizable schedule planner that’s let’s you program your device to work as and when you need it most, and a filter replacement reminder that advises you when it’s time to change the filters.

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Best for Those on a Budget 

Germ Guardian AC5350B

Just because you’re a little short on spare cash, doesn’t mean to say you should suffer in terms of the quality of the air you breathe. Thankfully, with the help of the Germ Guardian AC5350B, you don’t have to. This air purifier is excellent value for money and is one of the best selling on Amazon currently.

Equipped with a True HEPA filter that’s capable of capturing most microscopic allergens and particles from the air and an activated carbon filter in which to reduce odors, this device offers all you want from a good air purifier. Another bonus is that measuring in at 9.06” x 6.69” x 27.56”, it can fit just about anywhere which is perfect for anyone with very little spare floor space in their home. So whether you’re looking for an effective solution for providing clean air in your bedroom, living room, or kitchen, this device is a good option.

In terms of capability, the Germ Guardian AC5350B can effectively filter a room size of up to 180 square feet in size in just 15 minutes. It uses a True HEPA filter, so you know it will be effective. In terms of functionality, it offers quite a few different features. The easy to use digital display includes a filter change indicator, an optional UV C light control function that helps to eliminate any airborne viruses and an 8-hour timer for easy convivence.

And if all that’s not enough, you even get a 5-year limited warranty for that added peace of mind.

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Rounding Up Our Guide to the Best Home Air Purifiers

We hope you enjoyed the above article and are now one step closer to making your next air purifier purchase. Just remember to opt for a model that’s sufficient for the room it’s going, and that there’s enough space for it to work effectively. It won’t take long before you reap the benefits of having a good air purifier within the home, and once you do, you’ll wonder how you ever managed to function without one.

Unsurprisingly, one of the most common topics if not the biggest topic being discussed globally today is the Covid-19 pandemic which has limited economic, social, religious, and political activities.

The pathogen responsible for this pandemic is known to be a mutated strain of the coronavirus. Everyone wants to be safe from this disease which has struck fear or caution in the hearts of people around the globe. This has given rise to diverse discussions centered on finding solutions to this pandemic.

Much of the solutions proffered to the public for safety are based on human conduct and behavior. We are told to wear face masks and hand gloves, maintain social distancing, and to report any suspected cases.

However, these solutions will not be enough. We need cures or vaccines and more effective ways to protect ourselves from this virus. It is in light of this discussion that Air Purifiers have been mentioned as equipment that may be able to protect us from the coronavirus.

What are Air Purifiers?

Air Purifiers are devices used in cleaning indoor air. They usually have filters that trap pollutants, ensuring the pollutants don’t get back into air circulation. In this way, they are said to protect Allergy sufferers and Asthma patients from Allergens and irritants.

There are several types of Air purifiers but for this topic, we will focus on the Air Purifiers with High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters which are believed to be the best for trapping pollutants, contaminants and unwanted particles that float in the air. Makers of Air Purifiers have often said that Air purifiers can protect you from pathogenic diseases.

They insist that HEPA filters have spaces small enough to trap pathogens which are usually bigger than the filter spaces. Some makers like the makers of the BlueAir HEPASilent Air Purifier have said that their Air Purifier has a clearance rate of 99.9%, capturing at least 99.9% of airborne particles down to 0.1 microns in size. This would imply that they can filter pathogens like the coronavirus which is about 0.12microns in size.

Another point that Air Purifier makers often make is that the coronavirus is carried by droplets which are often as big as 1micron, big enough for any air filter to filter the droplets entirely.

These arguments explain why there is a rush for Air Purifiers in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Are Air Purifiers an Effect safety measure against Coronavirus?

The main argument against Air Purifiers as safety devices against the coronavirus is that the virus is spread by droplets and is not airborne. It is not spread by air circulation. This means that the droplets could land on surfaces and come in contact with materials or body parts that would then expose an individual to the disease if the virus gets in that individual’s eyes, nose or mouth.

However, IQAir chief executive Jens Hammes is reported to have recently told tech site Gadgets 360 that their devices have suction mechanisms that help remove the droplets from a patient’s cough. If this is true, perhaps a powerful device working very fast to clean the air could be effective.

Another argument against the Air Purifiers is that Air Purifiers are designed to keep out bigger particles than the coronavirus. Most of the particles and pollutants are usually at 0.3microns and above. The HEPA filter has a limit of 0.1microns and the coronavirus size is said to be 0.1microns too. The margin is quite close and the effectiveness is debatable. However, James Dickerson, Consumer Report’s Chief Scientist assures that HEPA filters are very effective at catching coronavirus size particles as long as the particles get to the filter.

A third argument against the Air Purifiers working against the coronavirus is that most Air Purifiers at best trap particles and germs. They do not kill the germs. So, if the germs survive, there is a likelihood that some might escape back into the surrounding. It’s not a wise thing to have a container full of the virus around a residential building not to talk of within living quarters.

However, makers of the BlueAir HEPASilent claim that their technology combining electric charging with high air draft inactivates 99% of viruses and bacteria. This implies that there is a huge possibility this tech could inactivate the coronavirus if this is true. However, it remains a possibility until properly tested against the coronavirus.

Conclusion

Air Purifiers certainly give us hope that they could be a means of protecting ourselves against the coronavirus but at this time, these claims remain plausible theories until actually tested against the coronavirus.

We believe that Air Purifiers that could ensure that coronavirus size particles would be trapped while having some way of deactivating or rendering viruses and bacteria ineffective would be useful devices in fighting Covid-19. So, we recommend that if you are to buy Air Purifiers for the purpose of safety from the Coronavirus, the Air Purifier must have the following:

• HEPA filter that guarantees pathogens and particles as small as 0.95microns will be trapped.
• A mechanism for disinfecting the device or inactivating the bacteria or virus.
• A powerful suction force to suck up droplets quickly- James Dickerson, Consumer Report’s Chief Scientist assures that HEPA filters are very effective at catching coronavirus size particles as long as the particles get to the filter.

If all of these are guaranteed, then we believe that Air Purifiers would serve as protective devices against the coronavirus.

Unfortunately these days we cannot always trust that the indoor air we breathe is of good quality. As a result, air purifiers have become extremely popular.

A good air cleaner will work hard to clean and purify indoor air by removing a large majority of the airborne particles including dust, allergens, and contaminants that can often lead to poor health.

Rightly so, the coronavirus pandemic has made us even more aware of the value of good air quality and the need for home air purifiers.

In this guide we examine several key factors that you need to consider when comparing the best air purifiers for allergies and focus specifically on devices aimed at easing ongoing issues for allergy sufferers. We also take you through some of the leading options available right now.

When it comes to air filtration there are appliances to suit all needs and budgets and we hope after reading this guide and the reviews contained within it you will be able to make an informed decision and get the one that is most suitable for your needs.

Important Functions of the Best Air Purifiers for Allergies

Even in the cleanest of areas, air can contain many impurities. A quality air purifier will help to eliminate the vast majority of the unpleasant and potentially harmful impurities.

This will leave your immediate environment with clean air, aiding the improved health of those that breathe which in turn can reduce the risk of allergies and infections.

There are several important factors to consider when investing in an air purifier:

The size of the area

Not all air purifiers are created equal. Some are designed to clean the air in small rooms such as a bedroom or kitchen while others are more suitable in larger spaces such as a living room.

It is important to understand the range of the model relative to where you want to use it to ensure that it will work effectively based on the cubic feet range that you want it to cover.

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR)

This gives a rating of the efficiency of the air purifier and how well and how quickly it works on different pollutant sources and airborne allergens.

Quite simply, the higher the CADR rating the faster it cleans the air.

The effectiveness is normally expressed as a percentage of the contaminants the air purifier is able to remove from the air.

Air purification technology

There is now a range of different technologies used to purify the air and when it comes to choosing the best air purifiers for allergies it is important to have a basic understanding of these key technologies, especially if you have specific needs.

Many air purifiers use a combination of technologies for improved air cleaning and improved air quality, the most important are:

HEPA Filters

True HEPA filters are highly efficient at eliminating most contaminants and allergens in the air. They are particularly good at trapping smaller particles and can help reduce dust mites.

Used alone, they are not very good at eliminating odors or gases however many HEPA air purifier models still remain extremely popular.

All in all HEPA air purifiers are a good filtration system that is effective and relatively quiet.

Carbon Air Filters

Once carbon has been activated by oxygen it becomes extremely absorbent. This type of filter works well with other filters to clean tobacco smoke and gases and help to remove bad odors.

Pleated Air Filters

These are great for dust and other pollutant sources. The greater the number of pleats the more effective they are.

Fiberglass Air filters

This is a popular filter option as it is affordable and effective. They are helpful for asthmatics as well as other allergy sufferers.

Ionic Air Purifiers

The technology used in these ionizer air purifiers creates negatively charged ions. The impurities in the air become negatively charged and are drawn towards collection plates with a positive charge. These can then be easily cleaned to remove the particles.

Ionic air purifiers are safe and effective.

Noise Levels

The last thing that you want is a noisy air purifier. The less sound it puts out, the better and most modern quality air purifiers make very little noise even with high air flow. Remember, this is particularly important for use in a bedroom. Many have low or specific fan settings that let them operate at a whisper level.

Size and Appearance

You want the air purifier to look good and fit comfortably in the space you intend using it. Consider the size and aesthetics of the model when making your decision. The location of your air purifier is also very important.

Budget

Air purifiers range from highly affordable to a considerable investment so you need to consider your budget.

Give some thought to things like the power and range of the model as well as the warranty as these, although highly desirable, will push the price up.

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Best Air Purifiers for Allergies Reviewed

Honeywell HFD320 AirGenius 5

Honeywell is a large well-established company that makes a range of products with a reputation for quality and effectiveness. Their HFD320 AirGenius 5 is a reasonably priced tower design air purifier with a lot to offer. It uses a fairly unique technology that is a Honeywill patent, Intense Field Dielectric or idD. This allows it to operate effectively, efficiently, and quietly. It makes use of a permanent filter that can be washed which will save you money and hassle over time.

It will trap airborne particles 0.3 microns and larger with a 99.9% effectiveness. The purifier will take care of rooms as large as 250 square feet, circulating the air roughly 5 times every hour. Being a tower design it has a small footprint and is a sleek smart-looking device. There are 5 levels to choose from to control power and air flow including an ultra-quiet sleep mode for safe and peaceful rest.

The HFD320 AirGenius is AHAM verified and Energy Star certified. It is also effective against airborne germs and allergens as well as VOCs (volatile organic compounds). One should see a reduction in allergy symptoms. The air purifier will help eliminate odors in the room as it improves air quality.

Pros:

• Sleek and compact
• Affordable
• No replacement filters needed
• Relatively quiet
• Sleep mode
• 5 operation levels
• Neutralizes pet odors
• Oscillation optional
• AHAM (association of home appliance manufacturers) verified
• Energy Star certified
• 5-Year warranty

Cons:

• Not the highest CADR values
• Some find the display lights to be an irritation

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Coway Airmega 400 Smart Air Purifier

While this is a slightly more expensive air purifier it has some great technology and cleans and purifies the air effectively. It uses a combination of a true HEPA air purifier as well as activated carbon filters. This allows it to filter particles as small as 0.03 microns with a 99.97% effectiveness.  It will eliminate most pollens and allergens and it is 99% effective against VOCs and fumes including CH3CHO and NH3. The washable pre-filter will take care of larger particles

It operates efficiently in an area as large as 1,560 square feet. The air will be cleaned twice per hour. With dimensions of 14.8”W x 22.8”H x 14.8”D it is relatively compact and has a modern design. One has a choice of graphite or white finish. There are 5 levels including a sleep option. It is generally quiet and almost silent on sleep mode. The smart purifier can automatically come on or adjust according to the condition of the air. It has a pollution sensor with LEDs to control this and let you know the quality of the air at a glance.

The Coway Airmega 400 has a timer and will also give you an indication when filters need to be replaced or washed. It is Energy Star certified. The air purifiers have a 5-year warranty on the electronics as well as the motor.

Pros:

• Effective true HEPA filter
• 5 modes including sleep mode
• Automatic fan speed adjustment
• Air quality and filter status indicators
• Energy Star certified
• 5-Year warranty on electronics and motor (1-year for internal malfunctions)
• Attractive design

Cons:

• Relatively expensive
• The cost of replacement filters will add up over time

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LEVOIT LV-H133

This is an affordable option with a combination of a fine preliminary filter, a true HEPA filter, and an activated carbon filter. These work well together to tackle most potential air issues for air that is cleaner, healthier, and better smelling. It takes care of dust, smoke, allergens, pollen, pet dander, pet hair, VOCs, and other pollutants.  As with the above models, it can eliminate airborne particles as small as 0.03 microns and this model has a 99.97% effectiveness.

The LV-H133 will refresh the air in an 881 ft² in 30 minutes and 18 minutes for a 538 ft² in sized area. It will give you an indication of the air quality and adjust the fan speed automatically as needed. The LED display and timer are convenient and user-friendly.

It operates silently and the lowest mode will allow for a great sleep. The air purifier is safe with FCC and CARB certification and is ETL listed. The design is sleek and modern.

Pros:

• 3 filter combination for improved air purification
• Works well in larger areas
• Sleek elegant design
• Ideal for owners of animals with pet odors and other issues
• Effective on odors
• Indicates air quality and adjusts accordingly
• Timer and user-friendly controls and display
• Ultra-quiet particularly on the lowest setting
• CARB and FCC certified and ETL Listed

Cons:

• Replacement filters are fairly expensive
• Warranty is only for 1 year

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Germ Guardian Large Room Air Purifier – AC5250PT

Guardian Technologies make this highly effective air purifier. They have a good reputation for quality products that create a safer and healthier environment. A range of technologies has been combined to make this a powerful air purifier. It has a HEPA filter to remove pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens with a 99.97% effectiveness. An antimicrobial agent, Pet Pure, is incorporated into the filter. This will protect against the growth of mildew, mold, and bacteria that could potentially grow on the filter surface. The charcoal filter works well to rid the room of smoke and odors. This is a good option for pet owners. UV light technology is an optional extra that one can add to the air purifier. This will kill mold spores, germs, viruses and other bacteria in the air.

The streamlined tower air purifier is ideal for rooms up to 180 square feet and will refresh the air 4 times every hour. It has 5 speeds and is relatively quiet. It is Energy Star certified, AHAM verified, and CARB compliant. The Germ Guardian AC5250PT carries a 5-year limited warranty.

Pros: 

• PetPure treatment is ideal for pet odors
• Compact tower design
• Optional UV C technology for greater effectiveness
• Good value for money
• CARB compliant
• AHAM verified
• Energy Star certified
• 5-Year limited warranty

Cons:

• Not the quietest air purifier on higher speeds
• No smart features such as wi-fi or Alexa connection

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Alen BreatheSmart Classic P1000 Air Purifier

If you are looking for an air purifier that is effective in larger areas this is one to consider. It can work in a space of  1100 sq ft. cleaning the air in half an hour. It has a HEPA-type Carbon filter to eradicate 99.9% of impurities in the air. These include pollen, mold, bacteria, smoke, and pet dander. The Alen BreatheSmart Classic P1000 uses a 4-stage filtration process and operates quietly and efficiently. It is not the cheapest air purifier on the market but it is a popular choice and receives a lot of positive feedback.

The sensor light will instantly tell you the quality of the air in the area and will automatically adjust the fan speed according to the need. It comes with a lifetime warranty which will give you peace of mind when investing in the Alen BreatheSmart Classic P1000 Air Purifier. The look is stylish and elegant making it look good in any space. The controls and indicator lights are good looking and easy to use.

Pros:

• Covers a large area
• 4-Stage purifying and filtration process
• Effective on bad odors
• Low noise levels
• Air quality sensor lights
• Customizable and versatile
• Automatic fan speed adjustment
• Lifetime warranty

Cons:

• Unit is fairly costly
• Replacement filters need to be purchased

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Final thoughts

Air purifiers will improve the quality of the air that you breathe which is essential for good health. The best ones designed for allergy sufferers will help remove dust and pollutants in the air.

Give some thought to your needs, the space you want to use in, and your budget in order to find the best air purifiers for allergies. You cannot put a price on clean indoor air.

When faced with the responsibility of choosing an air purifier or dehumidifier, you should do some research to understand these products better.

Carrying out research in this way will ensure you find the best results for yourself when it comes to comparing the functions of a dehumidifier vs air purifier. These two devices have certain similarities in cleaning the air, and both contain mechanisms by which they produce clean air, and their main purposes will guide you in determining which is best for you and your family.

Fortunately, we will do all of this analysis to better inform your decision-making.

Air purifiers and dehumidifiers are similar in that they both help allergy sufferers by removing allergens from the air to improve air quality and provide them with the cleanest air possible within a given space or room. Their differences lie in their respective processes for improving indoor air quality.

Key Differences Between Air Purifiers and Dehumidifiers:

• Mechanism / How both appliances work
• Humidity level
• Types
• What they are useful for
• Noise levels

Mechanism

Air purifiers remove irritants and airborne contaminants from the air by passing air through air filters. These products improve indoor air quality.

The dehumidifier works by removing excess moisture from the air, creating low humidity levels where high humidity levels prevail by passing air through gels (desiccants) or condensing it to remove moisture.

Humidity Levels

Air purifiers have nothing to do with humidity levels or low humidity levels.

Dehumidifiers take care of excess humidity by removing excess moisture from humid environments.

Types

Types of air purifiers include HEPA filters, generators, adsorbents, ionizing, ozone, and UV light.

Types of dehumidifiers include mechanical or refrigerative, adsorption/desiccant, air conditioners, makeshift, ionic membrane, and electronic.

Useful for

Air purifiers are useful for asthmatic patients, allergy sufferers, and people with general sinus or respiratory issues, removing dust particles, smoke particles, mold spores, pet dander, and other allergens or irritants to create cleaner air.

Dehumidifiers are useful for removing dust mites, mold spores, mildew, a musty smell, and dampness by reducing moisture levels and converting highly humid environments to environments with low humidity levels.

Noise Levels

Air purifier noise levels range from soft to loud.

Dehumidifier noise levels are between average and loud.

What Are Air Purifiers For, and What Are the Common Types?

Air purifiers will be useful if you have a respiratory condition and need the cleanest air you can get. They are also useful if you have allergies that require you to remove mold spores, pet dander, and other allergens from your home. They are for removing contaminants, pollutant particles, and irritants through air filtration.

We will now discuss the types of air purifiers to help you choose the best air purifier.

Common types of air purifiers include: 

Filter (HEPA air purifiers)

These are types of air purifiers that use a true HEPA filter (High-Efficiency Particulate Air filter) or which utilize ULPA (Ultra-Low Penetration Air) filters to distribute air, removing dust particles and other irritants.

Ozone generators

These are air purifiers that convert oxygen (O2) into ozone (O3).

Ionizing

Ionic air purifiers utilize a small, powerful electrical field that creates oppositely charged particles, making them come together, separating them from the air.

UV Air Purifiers

This type of air purifier uses ultraviolet light to sterilize air, killing germs and bacteria that may be present. However, this type of air purifier does not remove dust and other particulate irritants. For this reason, it is best to combine this kind of air purifier with other types of purifiers to ensure complete air purification so you can get the cleanest air.

What Are Dehumidifiers For, and What Are the Common Types?

Dehumidifiers serve to get rid of musty smells in indoor air. They maintain low humidity in indoor air by removing excessive moisture that may be present. They also remove dust mites and reduce the risk of worsening respiratory problems. And while they don’t kill mold, they may prevent mold growth.

We will now discuss the types of dehumidifiers to help you choose the best air humidifier suitable for you.

Common types of dehumidifiers include:

Mechanical or Refrigerative Dehumidifier

This is perhaps the most common type available. It sucks in moist air over a refrigerated coil with a small fan attached to it. The air is then condensed, collected, and distributed. This type of dehumidifier is commonly used where the relative humidity is usually 45% and above.

Air Conditioning

By virtue of how these HVAC systems work, an air conditioner is a dehumidifier.

Electronic Dehumidifier

This type of dehumidifier creates a cool surface to condense water vapor from the air using a heat pump. Electronic dehumidifiers are relatively quieter than other humidifiers because their parts or components do not move. This type of humidifier is usually small in size.

Adsorption/Desiccant Style Dehumidifier

This type utilizes humidity-absorbing materials made to move along belts. The humidity-absorbing materials are usually gels.

Makeshift Dehumidifier

This type of dehumidifier works in a similar manner to the mechanical humidifier. They send their heat exhaust back into the air space.

Ionic Membrane

This type of dehumidifier utilizes a specially designed ionic membrane as an ionic pump to distribute humidity at a molecular level. This is usually used in industrial areas.

Conclusion

In the first place, both an air purifier and a dehumidifier are wonderful appliances. The air purifier is better at removing germs, bacteria, and irritants from the air but fails to do anything about humidity. This means that even though it removes spores, the excessive moisture content (if you live in an environment with high humidity levels) will ensure a build-up of mold.

On the other hand, dehumidifiers work by reducing the temperature and the room’s humidity levels, ensuring that molds will not form. However, it does not remove irritants as air purifiers do.

As a result, if your concern is the high amount of pollutants increasingly present in the air these days, the air purifier is your best bet.

Air purifiers make use of a range of technologies to eliminate contaminants and impurities in the air we breathe. The goal obviously, is to reduce impurities, contaminants, and allergens from the air to create a safer environment. When it comes to achieving this objective, some technologies and designs are more effective than others.

Ionizers have become very popular air purifiers but there have been a few lingering doubts about their safety. In this guide we will dig into the details of these products to answer the question – are ionizers safe?

Air Ionizers vs. Ionic Air Purifiers

Some people get confused with all the jargon used when discussing air purifiers. Given all the different technologies available it can become quite bewildering if you do not have experience investigating the various options. One thing that can cause confusion is the difference between air ionizers and ionic air purifiers. Let us clarify that for you.

An air ionizer and an ionic air purifier are essentially the same things. They both make use of ions or electrically charged air molecules to trap and remove impurities and contaminants in  the air. The charged ions attract and bind with the impurities and contaminants in the air and then fall onto a collection plate in the device. These need to be cleaned from time to time but the air ionizer is quite low maintenance.

Unlike many other types of air purifiers, they do not make use of filters. They are effective at removing germs and fine particles from the air but not great at eliminating odors. They operate quietly which is ideal for bedrooms or other areas where noise could be an irritation.

Air ionizers or Ionic Air purifiers are also sometimes referred to as ion generators or ionic filters. For the sake of simplicity, we will refer to them as air ionizers but the terms can be used interchangeably.

Are Air Purifiers With Ionizers Safe

The most important aspect to be clear on, when considering this type of technology is – are air purifiers with ionizers safe? The entire point of investing in an air purifier is to improve the air quality for the improved health and safety of those in the area where you use it. One that is unsafe will naturally do more harm than good.

There has been some controversy surrounding the safety of air ionizers and before investing in one, you want to be sure of the answer to the question many ask – are air ionizers safe?

The main source of concern over the years relates to the fact that many people do not fully understand the technology. They often get them confused with ozone generators. These are totally different and the ozone they generate can indeed be a cause for concern.

Many of the early models marketed as ionizers produced a significant amount of ozone and a number of reports were released that gave the concept a bad reputation. Fortunately, the majority of those products are no longer available and quality air ionizers work well and as a result, are completely safe.

The negatively charged ions produced by air ionizers are not harmful and will attract and trap the charged particles including the potentially harmful particles in the air which if untreated could lead to throat irritation or respiratory infections. This will leave the air safer for a healthy environment.

Negative ions are natural and lightning, sun, and even waterfalls produce them. This creation of negative ions or ionization is similar to the process used by ionizers. In the right amount, they not only improve air quality but also have health benefits. They are known to boost your energy and even aid in emotional well-being.

The quality air ionizers produce little to no ozone as a byproduct or give you complete control over the amount of ozone they create. Anything at less than 50 parts per billion (PPB) is perfectly safe. More than 200 PPB is potentially dangerous for most people.

Provided you select an air ionizer that meets the above criteria then they are perfectly safe. They will work quietly and effectively removing the majority of impurities in the air for a safer environment.

Avoid ozone generators unless you have a specific reason for needing one, understand how they work and you use them correctly. 

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How Do Ionizers Compare to HEPA Filters

When investigating air purifiers it is important to consider the various types available and the technologies they use. One of the more sophisticated and effective options is a purifier with a true HEPA filter. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are able to efficiently filter the air, removing particles  0.3 microns or larger with a 99.97% effectiveness.

HEPA is a standard that is strictly monitored to ensure a true HEPA filter meets the necessary effectiveness giving you added peace of mind that the purifier will work well and deliver quality air that is free of most impurities and contaminants. HEPA air purifiers are extremely safe and highly effective.

Another option is a HEPA-type air filter. While they are not quite as effective as true HEPA filters, they will still eliminate particles that are 2 to 3 microns in size with an effectiveness of 95%.

Potential Dangers of Ionic Air Purifiers

Most people understand the benefits of a good air purifier. It is a sad reality that indoor air quality is generally of a poor quality without the use of a good air purifier. Air purification is therefore beneficial for the health and well being of those breathing the air, whether you’re at home or at the office. It is, however, essential that you get one that works well and is 100 percent safe.

So, the question still remains – are air purifiers with ionizers safe? As we mentioned above, the health and safety concerns regarding air ionizers were mainly related to ozone generators. These can pose a health risk, particularly for those that suffer from asthma. A number of consumer reports emerged in 2005 related to an ionizer, the Ionic Breeze marketed by Sharper Image, that apparently created a potentially dangerous amount of ozone. While the company in question disputed this they ultimately went bankrupt.

While ozone has benefits for the environment and, in the right amount, our health, the right quantity is critical. Too much ozone can result in shortness of breath, a cough, and chest pain. This fact is confirmed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Any device that generates high levels of ozone should be avoided.

While there are concerns regarding ozone generators one need not fear any ionic air purifier dangers. The right air cleaner will benefit those that breathe indoor air and reduce the side-effects on potential damage caused by poor air quality.

Ionizer Air Purifiers Good or Bad?

The simple answer to the question “are ionizers safe?” is a resounding yes. The only caveat is that you get the right one.

What is important, when selecting an air purifier, is that you are aware of the technology that is used and how they work. In summary, an air ionizer that allows you to control ozone levels or produces no ozone is perfectly safe.

As with all air purifiers, you need to know how best to use them and where to place them. You want to position the air purifier in the area where people spend the most time for maximum benefit.

Do a bit of investigating, invest in the right air purifier for your needs, follow the instructions and you can’t go wrong.

Sadly, there are still a few potentially harmful products on the market that give the quality models a bad reputation. Provided you choose according to the guidance in this article you can enjoy quality air for the improved health of those that live or work in the environment.

Clean air is something that cannot be taken for granted these days and the right air purifier will remove potentially dangerous and harmful airborne particles for improved health.

You shouldn’t think of an air purifier as just some fancy air conditioning system that does little more than improve your indoor air quality; it’s considerably more. If you select the right air purifier for your home, it can enhance the quality of your life and potentially ward off serious diseases.

In this article, we are going to walk you through how to use an air purifier to get the best results. We’ll explore how air purifiers work and how to use them most effectively.

How do air purifiers work?

Essentially, an air purifier is a filter or several air filters, combined with a fan, that sucks in and then circulate the air.

As air passes through the filter, it captures pollutants and particles, leaving “clean air,” which is then pushed out of the purifier back into the room.

HEPA is important in the world of indoor air purifiers. It stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air. HEPA filters work by capturing particles within a multi-layered netting, which is often made with very fine fiberglass threads. The HEPA filter is airtight. It’s randomly placed fibers causes particles of all sizes to be captured by either crashing into the fibers or by diffusion.

A true Hepa air purifier is very good at dealing with dust mites, airborne particles or airborne allegations, and indoor air pollution in general.

There is another type of air purifier that uses ionizers to attract particles by taking advantage of static. It uses negative ions to bond to dust and allergens. Be sure to choose an air cleaner that does not produce ozone because it’s a known lung irritant. You don’t want a lung irritant in the home generally, but especially for people suffering from asthma.

Be aware that air purifiers won’t completely eradicate mold spores. If mold growth is one of your primary concerns you want to research dehumidifiers or humidifiers, they’ll help keep moisture levels at the right level. Air purifiers can help to remove odor from the air but won’t reduce mold growth, unfortunately.

Knowing which air purifier is best for your home is essential. Likewise, you’ll want to pay attention to the CADR rating which relates to how quickly an air purifier can clean the air of the room it is situated within.

Other important questions you’ll need to answer before you make a purchase include:

• Do you have to contend with pet dander?
• Do you have an HVAC system?
• Does anyone in the home suffer for allergies?
• Are you dealing with volatile organic compounds?
• Is Radon an issue?

There’s a lot to consider, and you need to take air purification seriously. But once you have bought your air filter, you must know how to use it effectively.

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How to Use an Air Purifier Effectively

You could have the best air purifier on the market, but to get the most benefit out of your home air purifier, we recommend you follow these steps.

1. Location – For proper air filtration, air purifiers need space to breathe. If you want quality air, ensure you have a few feet of clear space on all four sides, this allows the purifier the opportunity to be in contact with air pollutants. You can’t hide it away; it needs to become part of the room.

2. Pointing the flow in the right direction – To be clear, make sure the flow of clear air is directed to where you can get the most benefit from it. This is a less of a concern in smaller rooms such as bedrooms.

3. Keep it turned on – Asthma sufferers or homes where there will be tobacco smoke may need to keep the air purifier turned on. The same goes for homes in high smog areas or with a lot of dust particles. You can change the fan speed, decrease the clean air delivery rate, but don’t turn it off.

4. Keep windows and doors closed – Having access to outdoor air means the air purifier works far less efficiently, even a HEPA type air purifier.

5. Change the filters regularly – This is not your standard home appliance; air purifiers need to be maintained. Make sure you have a supply of replacement filters at home. Regular air purifier filter replacement keeps the air flow clean. We highly recommend you change the activated carbon filters regularly.

Is it expensive to use an air purifier?

HEPA air purifiers consume 50 to 200 watts of electricity, depending on the model. That’s not actually a whole lot and the Environmental Protection Agency believes the benefits far outweigh the impact of using energy.

Putting this into context, your average lamp will require approx 60 watts whereas a computer could use 365 watts. That seems reasonable in return for removing your home of airborne allergens.

However, if energy consumption is something you are worried about, you may want to consider researching a model that is an Energy-Star rated air purifier.

The initial investment of an air purifier can be expensive for some, but the day-to-day running expenses are not as costly.

Conclusion

Air purifiers work by sucking air into the purifier, with the allergen and airborne allergens also in the air. Purifiers then use well placed, airtight fibers that collide into the airborne particles and trap them, pushing out the clean air. There are other variations; some use ionizers, for example, but the goal is always the same.

Once you’ve picked out your air purifier, it’s important to use it and take care of it properly. For a start, positioning it in an open space with good air flow will get the most from this new home appliance.

You don’t want it to be obstructed on any side, and you want the clean air to flow into the main areas of the room in order to produce optimum indoor air quality.

Cold winters, hot summers, and air pollution, the effects of all of these can be improved with the help of modern-day technology.

The market is flooded with various air conditioners, air purifiers, and a host of similar products designed to alleviate the effects of air pollution and temperature changes.

If you live in a place with very hot summers, extremely cold winters, high pollen counts, or polluted air, either an AC unit or an air purifier is a must-have.

Options are very nice to have, but sometimes it’s hard to know which of these you need for your home or office.

In this guide, we take an in-depth look at the differences between these air conditioning and purifying products, helping to ensure you find the best option for your needs.

The Basics

An air purifier removes contaminated particles such as dust, pollen, mold spores, and pet dander from the air in order to improve air quality.

Air purifiers are commonly used for health reasons by individuals that struggle with asthma, allergies, and other respiratory diseases.

Air Purifiers

Air purifiers work in two different ways. Active air purifiers work by filtering negatively charged ions into the air, which causes the pollutants to stick to surrounding surfaces.

Meanwhile, passive air purifiers differ by using air filters to remove pollutants from the air. The best air purifier filter is a HEPA filter.

Both types of air purifiers are effective, but passive air purifiers are the preferred option since they permanently remove both small and larger particles such as dust mites, pet dander and other allergens, and airborne contaminants.

Air purifiers can either be stand-alone units or can be incorporated into HVAC systems.

Air Conditioners

An air conditioner is a machine that treats air in an enclosed area via a refrigeration cycle. Air is removed out of the room and replaced with either cooler or warmer air depending on the setting and temperature that the device is set to. Air conditioners are mainly used for comfort in areas that experience extreme temperatures. Air conditioners all work on the same principle, but they are available in different shapes and sizes.

Types of Air Conditioners

Window Air Conditioners

A window unit is a portable air conditioner normally found in a window or an exterior hole in the wall. Window air conditioners have limited cooling capacity due to their size and static location. However, these low-cost units have the cooling power for individual rooms or small apartments that don’t have a central HVAC system.

Air Source Heat Pumps

Air source heat pumps are a cost-effective air conditioning option for homes with ductwork. Air source heat pumps use electricity to move warm and cold air throughout your home. In winter, the heat pump brings concentrated warm outdoor air into the house from outside. During the summer months, it concentrates warm indoor air in your house and dumps it outside.

These energy-efficient systems are best suited for areas with mild temperatures and work very well in Southern California, but may not fare so well in Minnesota.

Central Air Conditioners

Central air conditioning systems consist of the condensing unit (outside the home) and the evaporative unit (inside the home). These luxury units deliver cool air to every room within a house simultaneously, and the majority of modern homes in the US feature these systems.

Ductless Air Conditioners

Ductless air conditioners are also known as split system air conditioners. These systems are ideal for homes without ductwork and offer a more permanent solution than window AC units. Ductless air conditioners feature one unit on the inside of the home and one unit on the outside of the home, and refrigerant tubing pipes connect the two units.

These systems normally only cool one room at a time, but depending on room size, more advanced systems are able to cool multiple rooms simultaneously.

Portable Air Conditioners

A portable air conditioner can be moved in and out of a room as you please. These air conditioners feature a hose that discharges hot air out through an exterior window. Portable AC units can be noisy, but they are great temporary cooling solutions.

Do Air Conditioners Purify the Air?

Air conditioners aren’t designed to purify indoor air, but they feature filters that filter some pollutants to improve indoor air quality.

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The Key Differences Between Air Purifiers and Air Conditioners

It’s all in the name, air purifiers purify the air, and air conditioners condition (either heat up or cool down) the air.

Air purifiers remove pollutants from the air, meaning individuals that suffer from asthma, allergies or other respiratory diseases can benefit greatly by installing an air purification system in their home.

Air purifiers are also a great addition to your bedroom to ensure that you get a good night’s sleep while breathing in clean, pollution-free air.

To find out which air purifier is best for your bedroom, head here.

Air purifiers are recommended for health reasons as well as for people that live in big cities where air pollution is an issue. There is no prerequisite for installing an air filter; if you feel like you want clean air in your house, go ahead and get one of these air cleaners, it can only be beneficial.

Air conditioners are different from air purifiers, and while air conditioners do purify the air to some extent, their main function is to condition the air to change temperature. Air conditioners are mainly designed for geographical locations that experience either extremely hot or cold temperatures depending on the season. Air conditioners are available in many different shapes and sizes to suit your heating/cooling needs.

What About Humidifiers?

Humidifiers differ because they add water to the air in order to increase the humidity within a room.

Humidifiers are a welcome addition in areas with dry desert air. A variety of health-related issues are aggravated by dry air, including allergies and asthma. Humidity also ensures that your skin doesn’t dry out.

Humidifiers are available as stand-alone devices, or they can be connected to your home’s HVAC system.

Read More: We’ve created a full guide on the differences between air purifiers and dehumidifiers.

Conclusion

After reading this guide, we hope it clears up the fact that air purifiers and air conditioners aren’t the same.

The main difference is that air purifiers work by removing pollutants, allergens, and odors from the air, and air conditioners condition air to be either hot or cold depending on the temperature that your cooling system is set to.

Air purifiers and air conditioners are both complex systems, but with a good understanding of what each device does, you will be able to purchase the correct option for your needs without having to second guess yourself.

The number of people using air purifiers within the home has risen considerably over the past decade or so. Mainly this is because people want to improve the air quality within the home. But why you may ask, has it suddenly become so bad that there is a need for these machines to exist in the first place?

Unfortunately, the answer to that question is due to a number of factors, but ultimately, it’s because of the general rise in global air pollution. And while we may not be able to control the air quality outside the home, when it comes to improving it inside the home, there are options – i.e. an air cleaner in the form of an air purifier.

Recent years have seen extensive research carried out in this area, specifically looking at the effectiveness of air filters and their efficiency in successfully reducing particulate matter and allergens indoors.

This of course is hugely positive and can lead to significant health benefits to those that suffer from asthma or other cardiovascular issues.

However, there are also a lot of questions emerging as to whether or not these appliances can make you sick. In this article, we will look to dispel the myths and reveal the facts so you can decide the best course of action for you.

Are Air Purifiers Safe?

Air purifiers work by removing harmful allergens and other airborne particles from within the home. The way in which they’re designed allows them to draw in unfiltered air and pass it through a filter so that it comes out as ‘clean air’. They can be a great help to anyone who suffers with asthma, allergies, or any other underlying health conditions.

Most decent air purifiers available today are equipped with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, meaning they have met the stringent standards of how effective they are. To qualify as a HEPA filter, air purifiers sold in the USA must be able to remove a minimum of 99.97% of any particle with a diameter equal to 0.3 micrometer. This percentage must also increase when the particle size falls above or below this size.

Quite simply, air filters and air purifiers are preventing us from breathing in dirty air, and if they weren’t deemed to be safe then they wouldn’t be HEPA approved.

Do They Dry Out the Air?

In a nutshell, no. Contrary to what a lot of people are led to believe, air purifiers don’t change the humidity level in the air. They are not designed to do this and are not equipped to do this. While air is filtered through the system, there’s nowhere for an air purifier to capture moisture from the air.

If you use an air conditioner, this could be one reason as to why you have dry air. To counteract the effects of this, some people choose to use a humidifier within the home. But we’ll leave that for another day and you can check out our full guide on the differences between air purifiers and humidifiers here.

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Can They Make You Sick?

An air purifier alone should not make you sick. Yet there are still a great deal of people questioning this. In this section, we’ll take a look at some of the main areas of concern and whether there is any truth behind the claims.

Sore throat

If you’ve got a HEPA air purifier, this one couldn’t be further from the truth. Because air purifiers work to remove bacteria from the air, they actually help in reducing the occurrence of sore throats and sicknesses. They’re also very effective at eliminating allergens too and can work wonders when placed in the bedroom to help ensure you get a peaceful night’s sleep.

If, however, you have an ionizing air purifier you may experience a slight throat irritation. This is because air ionizers work slightly different to HEPA air purifiers. Instead of taking in air to filter it, they emit charged particles into the air to clean it instead. An unfortunate byproduct of this process is a tiny amount of ozone. And while it is only a very small amount, it is enough to cause people with chronic respiratory system issues, minor throat irritation.

Headaches

One of the most commonly asked questions relating to health we receive is: “Do air purifiers cause headaches?”. Referring back to the above section on sore throats, provided you have a HEPA air purifier, this should not be an issue as they work to remove any harmful allergens, mold spores, or odors that may cause a headache . It’s also important you consider the right location for your air purifier, if you do that then you should see the quality of the air improve dramatically within your home.

Even those ionizing type air purifiers shouldn’t be a problem as the trace amount of ozone that’s emitted from them is not enough to cause a headache.

Nosebleeds

This is definitely an unsubstantiated claim regardless of the type of air purifier you have. Other than those instances relating to underlying medical conditions, nosebleeds can also be caused when the air is dry. However, air purifiers do not dry out the air. Therefore, they cannot be a trigger for nosebleeds.

Cough

Similar to that of the nosebleed scenario, if you’re breathing in dry and dusty air, it is likely to make you cough. But with an air purifier in the room working to remove any allergens, pet dander, and other irritants from the air, the chances of you coughing should be reduced significantly.

How to Ensure You Air Purifier Doesn’t Make You Sick

While the air purifier alone is not enough to make you sick, combined with a number of other factors, it may. The following are just a few helpful hints as to what you can do to prevent this from happening:

• Avoid Ozone gas-producing air purifiers: Overexposure to ozone gas is extremely dangerous. Not only can it cause coughing, wheezing, and a tightening of the chest, in some extreme circumstances it can be fatal. Even a small amount can cause inflammation in the throat and lungs. Therefore, it’s best to avoid air purifiers that emit ozone gas, regardless of how effective it claims to be. The best way to do this is to opt for a HEPA air purifier. With one of these, you avoid ozone gas altogether.

 

• Clean or change the filter regularly: Having a dirty filter in your air purifier is just as bad as not having one at all. To ensure your appliance remains effective at removing pollutants it’s vital that you clean or change your filter regularly (in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions).

 

• Use natural air purifiers as well within the home (i.e. plants). The air within the home is full of dust mites, allergens, pet dander, and other harmful lung irritants. And while air purifiers are very effective at filtering the air surrounding them, they simply can’t get everywhere at once. So, in order to achieve the very best air quality you can at home, try to use natural air purifiers in addition to an electrical one.

Some plants are very good at absorbing harmful toxins from the air, particularly in areas of reduced air flow. Spider plants are good for this and are easy to maintain. Bamboo palms are even better but take a little more looking after. Both are non-toxic so are safe for those with kids and/or pets.

Beeswax candles also act as natural air purifiers. These burn very slowly and produce very little smell or smoke. Yet they are highly effective at neutralizing toxic compounds and removing harmful allergens from the air.      

Conclusion

If you experience any of the above symptoms while in your home, then the chances of these being side effects caused solely by an air purifier is slim, and almost non-existent if it’s a HEPA air purifier but we always recommend speaking to a medical professional if you’re worried.

Your indoor air quality will improve significantly through the help of a high-quality air purifier. Not only will it help to eliminate any dust, pet dander, allergens, or other irritants in the air, it will also help rid any nasty odors too.