Modern society lives with technology that puts many contaminants into the air. People today breathe air that is dirtier than ever before. Some people breathe air that is worse than in other places. Some of the third world countries have no requirements for clean air and consequently the air is filthy in those places. Some states in America have stricter restrictions than other places, and their air is cleaner than their compatriots. People in the rural areas of the United States probably have the cleanest air of all people. Those that live in places with lots of contaminants in the air are wise to have an air purifier in their homes.
An air purifier is a good piece of equipment to take these contaminants out of the air. This equipment must have a good air purifier filter to be effective in clearing the air properly. Each person might purchase a great air purifier, but this device must have a clean air purifier filter to make sure that the device works properly. Someone can have a device to clear the air but without an air purifier filter the device does not do much good.
An air purifier filter needs to be replaced periodically according to the directions to make sure that the equipment continues to do the important job.
An Air Purifier Filter Is the Most Important Part of the Equipment
An air purifier filter can make a difference in the health and welfare of the people in a home or office. The air purifier filter takes the contaminants out of the air and helps people keep their lungs free from harmful elements. The lungs can collect contaminants that an air filter purifier could take out of the air. The lungs once affected can develop serious conditions like asthma and other lung diseases that can have a very negative effect on the lifestyle of an individual. Damaged lungs can slow a person down so they cannot be as active as desired.
The air purifier filter used correctly in a great device can help those who have developed health problems. Those with problems like asthma or emphysema can have great trouble breathing if the air is filled with contaminants. A good air purifier can make a significant difference in the lives of these people. The air purifier will take the contaminants out of the air that might affect these people negatively. The air purifier is not exorbitantly expensive, but this device can substantially improve the quality of life for many people.
Thursday, 28 January 2010
Monday, 25 January 2010
Allergy Expert Answers the Top 10 Air Purifier Questions
Allergy expert and Health Practitioner Mark Richardson answered the 10 most commonly asked questions when it comes to providing allergy relief with an air purifiers:
Which air purifier technology is best to relieve allergies?It depends on what kind of allergies you have. For seasonal allergies like pollen, and pet allergies, high efficiency particle arresting (called HEPA) air purifier technology is recognized by Doctors as providing the best relief. HEPA will remove airborne allergens to .3 microns, or 99.97% of all airborne particles.
How about allergies to Mold and Mildew? HEPA, while it will remove mold spores, will not kill Mold and Mildew. To kill Mold and Mildew you will want UV and Tio2.
How about Cat and Dog allergies? HEPA and a Pre-filter (a screen-like filter to catch hair and dust which also saves the life of the HEPA)
How about Dust allergies? HEPA, to gather dust, and a Pre-filter to capture hair and dust before the HEPA filter to help it last longer.
How about Air Purifiers like the Oreck? The Oreck doesn't have HEPA and relies solely on "electrostatic" or the positive and negative charge of some airborne pollutants so is not considered effective in my opinion for allergens. Most allergens do not have a charge so won't be captured in their "truman cells" as they call their plates.
How often should a person change the HEPA filter? It depends on the size of the HEPA filter but on average a good0-sized HEPA should last 9-12 months under normal use. One thing to be wary of is the fact that many air purifier companies overcharge for the replacement HEPA after the initial purchase of the air purifier itself. So check replacement prices in advance. For a good sized HEPA filter look for replacements in the $30-40 range.
How long should it take to be effective? Assuming that you have the right technology to do the job several hours of running the air purifier should be enough to notice a difference. Again this will depend on what you are trying to remove from your air. Mold and mildew can take 6-7 hours to clear
How much should a good air purifier cost? Because there are alot of overpriced air purifiers out there this becomes a good question. For a normal Living room or bedroom I wouldn't spend more that $300 for a multi-technology unit.
Should I run it all the time? To save electricity costs you might consider air purifiers that feature allergen and dust sensor. These sensors from Japan adjust the machine to the conditions in the room saving electricity and guesswork. A video on Alive Air
What do you recommend? For an affordable alternative to the typical 2-3 technology air purifiers, you can now find 9-technology air purifiers that include HEPA, UV, Tio2, Ion, Carbon, Electrostatic and more all-in-one by companies.
Which air purifier technology is best to relieve allergies?It depends on what kind of allergies you have. For seasonal allergies like pollen, and pet allergies, high efficiency particle arresting (called HEPA) air purifier technology is recognized by Doctors as providing the best relief. HEPA will remove airborne allergens to .3 microns, or 99.97% of all airborne particles.
How about allergies to Mold and Mildew? HEPA, while it will remove mold spores, will not kill Mold and Mildew. To kill Mold and Mildew you will want UV and Tio2.
How about Cat and Dog allergies? HEPA and a Pre-filter (a screen-like filter to catch hair and dust which also saves the life of the HEPA)
How about Dust allergies? HEPA, to gather dust, and a Pre-filter to capture hair and dust before the HEPA filter to help it last longer.
How about Air Purifiers like the Oreck? The Oreck doesn't have HEPA and relies solely on "electrostatic" or the positive and negative charge of some airborne pollutants so is not considered effective in my opinion for allergens. Most allergens do not have a charge so won't be captured in their "truman cells" as they call their plates.
How often should a person change the HEPA filter? It depends on the size of the HEPA filter but on average a good0-sized HEPA should last 9-12 months under normal use. One thing to be wary of is the fact that many air purifier companies overcharge for the replacement HEPA after the initial purchase of the air purifier itself. So check replacement prices in advance. For a good sized HEPA filter look for replacements in the $30-40 range.
How long should it take to be effective? Assuming that you have the right technology to do the job several hours of running the air purifier should be enough to notice a difference. Again this will depend on what you are trying to remove from your air. Mold and mildew can take 6-7 hours to clear
How much should a good air purifier cost? Because there are alot of overpriced air purifiers out there this becomes a good question. For a normal Living room or bedroom I wouldn't spend more that $300 for a multi-technology unit.
Should I run it all the time? To save electricity costs you might consider air purifiers that feature allergen and dust sensor. These sensors from Japan adjust the machine to the conditions in the room saving electricity and guesswork. A video on Alive Air
What do you recommend? For an affordable alternative to the typical 2-3 technology air purifiers, you can now find 9-technology air purifiers that include HEPA, UV, Tio2, Ion, Carbon, Electrostatic and more all-in-one by companies.
Sunday, 17 January 2010
Air Purifiers: Types and Benefits
Air purifier is a device that removes contaminated air from indoor and brings in fresh air. Air purifiers have gained a lot of popularity over past few years. Nowadays there are many different types of air purifiers available in the market.
Some of different types of air purifiers are given below:
1. Ultraviolet air purifier: Ultraviolet air purifiers reduce toxic gas as well as remove volatile organic gases including harmful ones. In addition, it also kills germs and viruses present in air. It is also portable with easy maintenance especially with filters. Another benefit of this type of air purifier is that it is very quite and appears to be almost non-existence in terms of noise. Some UV air purifiers come with a filtering process that combines other types of air filters namely HEPA, ionization, and carbon. A motorized fan attached to this device is used to maintain a flow of air throughout the house.
2. Ionic air purifier: This type of purifier uses the effect of ionization to reduce contaminated particles and dust particles from air. Ionic air purifier ionizes contaminants as positively charged particles which are then attracted to a negatively charged plate to get rid of the pollutants or contaminants. For users with allergies, asthma problem use this type of air purifier. It also helps in getting rid of odors such as that of pets or cigarette smoking. Many ionic purifiers have adjustable power levels to allow user to adjust it according to room size. Generally, an ionic air purifier that weighs 10 pounds and has dimensions of 9 by 10.5 by 29 inches can cover an area of 500 square feet. Nowadays you can also find many ionic purifiers that don’t include a filter.
3. Edenpure air purifiers: This type of purifier not only eliminates contaminants from air but from surfaces as well. Many air contaminants are due to surfaces such as carpets, furniture, floor etc which causes respiratory problems. It also comes with a fan as well as a pre-filter mesh which instead of replacement requires washing with water.
4. Room air purifiers: One of the most commonly used, this type of purifier, designed for small sized room, gets rid of odors such as pet’s and smoking. This unit sucks in contaminated air, cleans it and sends filtered air back into the room. This unit is portable as well.
5. Ozone air purifiers: Strictly to be used in unoccupied rooms, this air purifier produces an oxidant ozone which get rid of many contaminants namely bacteria, germs, virus, formaldehyde, odors etc. Although an effective unit ozone has its own disadvantages and can be harmful to human body
.
There are many benefits of using an air purifier:
1. It purifies air and removes contaminated particles making air healthier when you breathe-in.
2. It get rid of odors namely pet odor, cigarette smoking.
3. It comes in a variety of materials so you can easily find one that is within your budget.
4. Due to healthy and purified air you are ill less often.
Some of different types of air purifiers are given below:
1. Ultraviolet air purifier: Ultraviolet air purifiers reduce toxic gas as well as remove volatile organic gases including harmful ones. In addition, it also kills germs and viruses present in air. It is also portable with easy maintenance especially with filters. Another benefit of this type of air purifier is that it is very quite and appears to be almost non-existence in terms of noise. Some UV air purifiers come with a filtering process that combines other types of air filters namely HEPA, ionization, and carbon. A motorized fan attached to this device is used to maintain a flow of air throughout the house.
2. Ionic air purifier: This type of purifier uses the effect of ionization to reduce contaminated particles and dust particles from air. Ionic air purifier ionizes contaminants as positively charged particles which are then attracted to a negatively charged plate to get rid of the pollutants or contaminants. For users with allergies, asthma problem use this type of air purifier. It also helps in getting rid of odors such as that of pets or cigarette smoking. Many ionic purifiers have adjustable power levels to allow user to adjust it according to room size. Generally, an ionic air purifier that weighs 10 pounds and has dimensions of 9 by 10.5 by 29 inches can cover an area of 500 square feet. Nowadays you can also find many ionic purifiers that don’t include a filter.
3. Edenpure air purifiers: This type of purifier not only eliminates contaminants from air but from surfaces as well. Many air contaminants are due to surfaces such as carpets, furniture, floor etc which causes respiratory problems. It also comes with a fan as well as a pre-filter mesh which instead of replacement requires washing with water.
4. Room air purifiers: One of the most commonly used, this type of purifier, designed for small sized room, gets rid of odors such as pet’s and smoking. This unit sucks in contaminated air, cleans it and sends filtered air back into the room. This unit is portable as well.
5. Ozone air purifiers: Strictly to be used in unoccupied rooms, this air purifier produces an oxidant ozone which get rid of many contaminants namely bacteria, germs, virus, formaldehyde, odors etc. Although an effective unit ozone has its own disadvantages and can be harmful to human body
.
There are many benefits of using an air purifier:
1. It purifies air and removes contaminated particles making air healthier when you breathe-in.
2. It get rid of odors namely pet odor, cigarette smoking.
3. It comes in a variety of materials so you can easily find one that is within your budget.
4. Due to healthy and purified air you are ill less often.
Thursday, 14 January 2010
Understanding Some of the Popular Air Purifiers
When talking about different brands of air purifiers, you will find as many as fifteen major competitors in the market. Here is a discussion about four of these popular brands:
Oreck Brand Purifiers:
The Super Air 8 by Oreck makes use of four simple, diverse technologies to effectively purify the surrounding air. The first technique consists of a pre - filter that takes care of larger particles in the dust. The second technique being the charcoal filters, which captivate smaller particles and some irritable chemical substances. The third technique makes use of an electrostatic precipitator to electronically charge smaller particles with the help of negatively charged ions and almost immediately, the fourth technique comes into picture. A magnetic collector plate attracts and collects the charged particles. Along with all these processes, the Oreck purifier also spawns and releases some negatively charged ions into the air, making the pollutants to immediately vanish from the air.
Sharper Image Ionic Breeze Purifiers:
One more popular brand is is the Sharper Image Ionic Breeze GP Air Purifiers. This system combines three different mechanisms. One is an electrostatic precipitator; the second is a negative ion generator; and thirdly, an Ultraviolet light. While the first two mechanisms are already known, the ultraviolet light however, is a new and improved addition to the unit. This effectively destroys bacteria, viruses and other micro parasites. The disadvantage of Ionic Air Purifier is that it produces harmful ozone in large amounts and therefore, care must be taken to place the unit away at a safer distance.
Hunter Brand Purifiers:
Hunter manufactures two models of common and popular air purifiers. One is Quietflo 3400; the other, HEPAtech 30375. Both the Air purifiers make use of Carbon pre-filter to capture any larger air pollutants. They also have an additional "Change Filter" indicator that indicates the need to change the filter. The user has a choice to either operate it manually or rely on a timer setting. The 30375 version has an ion generator built into it.
Austin Brand Purifiers:
Austin manufactures five different kinds of air purifiers each designed for a specific purpose. They are of two sizes depending on their weights. One is the 15 pounds (400 series) and the other being the 6 ponds (200 series). They make use of a Combinational Carbon - Zeolite pre-filter and HEPA filter. Austin Air Purifiers are strong and tough, made up of metal and hence are preferable to those sensitive and allergic to plastic odor.
Oreck Brand Purifiers:
The Super Air 8 by Oreck makes use of four simple, diverse technologies to effectively purify the surrounding air. The first technique consists of a pre - filter that takes care of larger particles in the dust. The second technique being the charcoal filters, which captivate smaller particles and some irritable chemical substances. The third technique makes use of an electrostatic precipitator to electronically charge smaller particles with the help of negatively charged ions and almost immediately, the fourth technique comes into picture. A magnetic collector plate attracts and collects the charged particles. Along with all these processes, the Oreck purifier also spawns and releases some negatively charged ions into the air, making the pollutants to immediately vanish from the air.
Sharper Image Ionic Breeze Purifiers:
One more popular brand is is the Sharper Image Ionic Breeze GP Air Purifiers. This system combines three different mechanisms. One is an electrostatic precipitator; the second is a negative ion generator; and thirdly, an Ultraviolet light. While the first two mechanisms are already known, the ultraviolet light however, is a new and improved addition to the unit. This effectively destroys bacteria, viruses and other micro parasites. The disadvantage of Ionic Air Purifier is that it produces harmful ozone in large amounts and therefore, care must be taken to place the unit away at a safer distance.
Hunter Brand Purifiers:
Hunter manufactures two models of common and popular air purifiers. One is Quietflo 3400; the other, HEPAtech 30375. Both the Air purifiers make use of Carbon pre-filter to capture any larger air pollutants. They also have an additional "Change Filter" indicator that indicates the need to change the filter. The user has a choice to either operate it manually or rely on a timer setting. The 30375 version has an ion generator built into it.
Austin Brand Purifiers:
Austin manufactures five different kinds of air purifiers each designed for a specific purpose. They are of two sizes depending on their weights. One is the 15 pounds (400 series) and the other being the 6 ponds (200 series). They make use of a Combinational Carbon - Zeolite pre-filter and HEPA filter. Austin Air Purifiers are strong and tough, made up of metal and hence are preferable to those sensitive and allergic to plastic odor.
Wednesday, 13 January 2010
Common Questions Regarding Air Purifiers
What are the common household air pollutants?
Before you decide which air purifier to buy, you have to recognize the different kinds of indoor pollutants so that you can effectively eliminate all of them. One of the pollutants is classified under the airborne particles. They include pet dander, dust mite allergen, pollen, cigarette smoke or mold. All of these are commonly found in most households and they are the main causes of allergy, asthma attacks or other breathing problems. There are also various household odors and gases such as pesticides and cooking odors that contribute to the indoor air pollution. Volatiles Organic Compounds (VOCs) are another group of contaminants found in household very often. Cleaning supplies, disinfectants, paints, glues and adhesives are all part of the VOCs. They are able to cause irritation, headache, nausea or even more severe health conditions such as asthma attack. Viruses and bacteria are micro-organisms that will make a person fall ill. All of the above pollutants should be eliminated from the air and surroundings using air purifiers.
What are the different types of air purifier filters?
Different kind of purifiers comes with different air filters. HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Arresting) purifiers use HEPA filters and they are well-liked by many. They can remove an extremely large amount of very small particles such as pollen, animal dander, mold or dust. Activated carbon filters are usually used together with the other filters in a unit. They are good for absorbing chemicals, gases and odors. The carbon is activated and treated with oxygen, the pores in the carbon will then open up and they absorb the gases and odors from the air. Similar to the HEPA air purifier, the larger the filter surface, the better results produced. Electrostatic filters work by attracting pollutants and trapping them on the collector plates. These plates must be cleaned regularly so as to maintain its effectiveness. One disadvantage of such filters is that they emit ozone which is harmful for people with asthma or allergies. Charged media filters work the same way as an electrostatic filter. The difference is that charged media filters collect the particles on fiber filters instead of plates. When compared with a HEPA air purifier, these filters have to be replaced more frequently as they lose their efficiency quite fast.
Where and how should you use your air purifier?
If you are of those who suffer from allergies or asthma, the recommended place to put the purifier is your bedroom because when you are at home, the place where you spend most of your time will be the bedroom. If you keep pets at home, you may consider leaving the purifier at the area where your pets hang out often. Avoid placing the purifier at an isolated corner of your home. This defeats the purpose of the air cleaner. The air cleaner should be somewhere with more air flow and it should be switched on at all times for best results.
Before you decide which air purifier to buy, you have to recognize the different kinds of indoor pollutants so that you can effectively eliminate all of them. One of the pollutants is classified under the airborne particles. They include pet dander, dust mite allergen, pollen, cigarette smoke or mold. All of these are commonly found in most households and they are the main causes of allergy, asthma attacks or other breathing problems. There are also various household odors and gases such as pesticides and cooking odors that contribute to the indoor air pollution. Volatiles Organic Compounds (VOCs) are another group of contaminants found in household very often. Cleaning supplies, disinfectants, paints, glues and adhesives are all part of the VOCs. They are able to cause irritation, headache, nausea or even more severe health conditions such as asthma attack. Viruses and bacteria are micro-organisms that will make a person fall ill. All of the above pollutants should be eliminated from the air and surroundings using air purifiers.
What are the different types of air purifier filters?
Different kind of purifiers comes with different air filters. HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Arresting) purifiers use HEPA filters and they are well-liked by many. They can remove an extremely large amount of very small particles such as pollen, animal dander, mold or dust. Activated carbon filters are usually used together with the other filters in a unit. They are good for absorbing chemicals, gases and odors. The carbon is activated and treated with oxygen, the pores in the carbon will then open up and they absorb the gases and odors from the air. Similar to the HEPA air purifier, the larger the filter surface, the better results produced. Electrostatic filters work by attracting pollutants and trapping them on the collector plates. These plates must be cleaned regularly so as to maintain its effectiveness. One disadvantage of such filters is that they emit ozone which is harmful for people with asthma or allergies. Charged media filters work the same way as an electrostatic filter. The difference is that charged media filters collect the particles on fiber filters instead of plates. When compared with a HEPA air purifier, these filters have to be replaced more frequently as they lose their efficiency quite fast.
Where and how should you use your air purifier?
If you are of those who suffer from allergies or asthma, the recommended place to put the purifier is your bedroom because when you are at home, the place where you spend most of your time will be the bedroom. If you keep pets at home, you may consider leaving the purifier at the area where your pets hang out often. Avoid placing the purifier at an isolated corner of your home. This defeats the purpose of the air cleaner. The air cleaner should be somewhere with more air flow and it should be switched on at all times for best results.
Tuesday, 12 January 2010
4 Basic Types of Air Purifiers
Recommendations of air purifiers seem to be based more on the appearance, features and the cost of replacement filters. All these criteria may be important, but the model of air purifier that you are getting should be your top priority. There are basically four main types of purifier available in the market now. It is essential that you evaluate the different types and get the model that works best for your household.
HEPA air purifiers use High Efficiency Particle Arresting (HEPA) filters to trap particles and it comes with a fan that can force air to pass through the filter. It is one of the popular choices among the other models of purifiers as many users have reflected that HEPA air purifier is the most effective. In addition, these models do not produce ozone that is harmful to children, elderly or people with asthmatic problems. Due to the fans inside the unit, you might experience some noise when it is switched on, but you can also look for quieter HEPA air cleaners if you are unable to stand the noise.
Electronic ionizers are another kind of air cleaners that work through an electronic process. This process includes reversing the charge of particles that are present in the air. These charged particles are attracted to collection plates fitted in the air purifier as well as to nearby surfaces such as walls or furniture. To completely remove them from your surroundings, you will have to vacuum the surfaces that are collected with those particles in order to prevent the allergens from reappearing in the air. One disadvantage of using this kind of purifier is that it emits a small amount of ozone.
UV purifiers use ultraviolet light to neutralize the contaminants. This light is excellent for eliminating bacteria, dust mites or mold spores if these particles are exposed long enough under the light. In order for the UV purifier to be effective, these units have to consist of a filter and a fan. There are also certain safety and health concerns over the use of UV purifiers in the household environment.
Ozone generators are the least recommended type as they have little or no effect in cleaning the air. Using these ozone generators will not remove any allergens from the air. Instead, they produce large amounts of unwanted ozone that can cause damage to human health in the long run. Although ozone itself can remove strong odors, they have been banned in certain countries due to its harmful effects.
HEPA air purifiers use High Efficiency Particle Arresting (HEPA) filters to trap particles and it comes with a fan that can force air to pass through the filter. It is one of the popular choices among the other models of purifiers as many users have reflected that HEPA air purifier is the most effective. In addition, these models do not produce ozone that is harmful to children, elderly or people with asthmatic problems. Due to the fans inside the unit, you might experience some noise when it is switched on, but you can also look for quieter HEPA air cleaners if you are unable to stand the noise.
Electronic ionizers are another kind of air cleaners that work through an electronic process. This process includes reversing the charge of particles that are present in the air. These charged particles are attracted to collection plates fitted in the air purifier as well as to nearby surfaces such as walls or furniture. To completely remove them from your surroundings, you will have to vacuum the surfaces that are collected with those particles in order to prevent the allergens from reappearing in the air. One disadvantage of using this kind of purifier is that it emits a small amount of ozone.
UV purifiers use ultraviolet light to neutralize the contaminants. This light is excellent for eliminating bacteria, dust mites or mold spores if these particles are exposed long enough under the light. In order for the UV purifier to be effective, these units have to consist of a filter and a fan. There are also certain safety and health concerns over the use of UV purifiers in the household environment.
Ozone generators are the least recommended type as they have little or no effect in cleaning the air. Using these ozone generators will not remove any allergens from the air. Instead, they produce large amounts of unwanted ozone that can cause damage to human health in the long run. Although ozone itself can remove strong odors, they have been banned in certain countries due to its harmful effects.
Monday, 11 January 2010
5 Reviews of the Latest Air Purifier Technologies
Air purifiers are now becoming common place in both the home and office. Allergy and asthma sufferers rely on them to help them breath easy. If you are looking to buy one, then the array of technology can at first be confusing.
We have put together a review of five of the latest air purifier technologies so that you can choose the right machine for your home.
Air purifiers are devices that remove contaminants from the internal atmosphere of a building. There are various 5 main types of air purifiers:
1. Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI)-this kills germs contained in the air through UV irradiation. However, they are not considered to be highly efficient as most harmful bacteria and molds require a lot of UV light to be destroyed.
2. High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters trap particulate matter efficiently (99% of all 0.3 micrometer particles can be trapped as well as a significant portion of smaller particles). The efficiency of HEPA filters is maximized when air is unable to circulate around the filter. This means airtight rooms that ventilate through specified ducts, which is not the case of most homes.
3. Activated carbon is used to adsorb volatile chemicals at the molecular level. However, its efficiency is disputed since the adsorption process stops when the activated carbon reaches equilibrium with the atmosphere. Thus, not all chemicals are removed and chemicals can be released back into the air if there are more of them in the filter.
4. Ionic purifiers do not use a polymer or paper like the technology used in HEPA units. Ionizing purifiers charge the particles so that they are attracted to the plates that are the opposite charge. Ionizer purifiers make a lot less noise than most HEPA based machines. Ionic purifiers are able to remove the very smallest of particles but are not so helpful with doors or germs.
5. Other emerging technologies like Photo catalytic Oxidation (PCO) promise high levels of purification with low energy consumption. However, PCO is currently not being used in residential homes because they are ineffective in destroying gaseous pollutants.
After reading our air purifier reviews you should choose an air purifier technology that fits your personal needs.
We have put together a review of five of the latest air purifier technologies so that you can choose the right machine for your home.
Air purifiers are devices that remove contaminants from the internal atmosphere of a building. There are various 5 main types of air purifiers:
1. Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI)-this kills germs contained in the air through UV irradiation. However, they are not considered to be highly efficient as most harmful bacteria and molds require a lot of UV light to be destroyed.
2. High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters trap particulate matter efficiently (99% of all 0.3 micrometer particles can be trapped as well as a significant portion of smaller particles). The efficiency of HEPA filters is maximized when air is unable to circulate around the filter. This means airtight rooms that ventilate through specified ducts, which is not the case of most homes.
3. Activated carbon is used to adsorb volatile chemicals at the molecular level. However, its efficiency is disputed since the adsorption process stops when the activated carbon reaches equilibrium with the atmosphere. Thus, not all chemicals are removed and chemicals can be released back into the air if there are more of them in the filter.
4. Ionic purifiers do not use a polymer or paper like the technology used in HEPA units. Ionizing purifiers charge the particles so that they are attracted to the plates that are the opposite charge. Ionizer purifiers make a lot less noise than most HEPA based machines. Ionic purifiers are able to remove the very smallest of particles but are not so helpful with doors or germs.
5. Other emerging technologies like Photo catalytic Oxidation (PCO) promise high levels of purification with low energy consumption. However, PCO is currently not being used in residential homes because they are ineffective in destroying gaseous pollutants.
After reading our air purifier reviews you should choose an air purifier technology that fits your personal needs.
Sunday, 10 January 2010
How to Read Air Purifier Reviews
When you try to sit down and create an air purifier review it can be really hard as every consumer needs the purifier for different things. One unit will work great for someone who has a major allergy but this same unit might be awful at helping someone who has asthma.
The task of a purifier is to remove pollutants from the air so that they don't cause discomfort or lead to an allergic reaction. A hay fever sufferer will use an air purifier to clean the air of pollen so as to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction. Another person with a dust allergy will try to use a purifier to remove dust mite allergens from the air. Certain purifiers are good at removing one type of pollutant more than other types. Taking into account the needs of different people I will try and test each air purifier in many situations and give it a mark based on the efficiency for each task.
You will generally need to use a laboratory to successful compare the efficiency of an air purifier in removing different allergens.
There is a multitude of technology that purifiers use such as UV, HEPA and even Ionizers. When you don't understand each of these technologies it can be tricky to know which is the best unit for your need. In the Navy, HEPA was first created so that air could be purified on board submarines. The way that a HEPA purifier works is by using a polymer or paper filter that has so small holes that pollutants are stopped and blocked.
At cleaning air, HEPA has good efficiency but the problem is that filters will need to be replaced. The cost of filters can be very high and in some cases can cost more than the price of an air purifier! If you are reading a review for a particular HEPA model then make sure you find out how much the filters cost and when they will need to be replaced.
The task of a purifier is to remove pollutants from the air so that they don't cause discomfort or lead to an allergic reaction. A hay fever sufferer will use an air purifier to clean the air of pollen so as to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction. Another person with a dust allergy will try to use a purifier to remove dust mite allergens from the air. Certain purifiers are good at removing one type of pollutant more than other types. Taking into account the needs of different people I will try and test each air purifier in many situations and give it a mark based on the efficiency for each task.
You will generally need to use a laboratory to successful compare the efficiency of an air purifier in removing different allergens.
There is a multitude of technology that purifiers use such as UV, HEPA and even Ionizers. When you don't understand each of these technologies it can be tricky to know which is the best unit for your need. In the Navy, HEPA was first created so that air could be purified on board submarines. The way that a HEPA purifier works is by using a polymer or paper filter that has so small holes that pollutants are stopped and blocked.
At cleaning air, HEPA has good efficiency but the problem is that filters will need to be replaced. The cost of filters can be very high and in some cases can cost more than the price of an air purifier! If you are reading a review for a particular HEPA model then make sure you find out how much the filters cost and when they will need to be replaced.
Wednesday, 6 January 2010
Why Buy an Air Purifier
Air pollution is a serious threat to your health. Pollutants exist indoors and outdoors, and while we spend most of our time living and working indoors, it is crucial that the air you are breathing in is the cleanest possible. While you cannot do anything regarding breathing in outdoor air pollutants, indoor air pollutants are something that can be effectively prevented by the use of air purifiers.
According to the American Lung Association, there is a checklist of things that you can use to tell how polluted your air is:
* Can you see or smell mold or mildew?
* Is the humidity regularly above 50 percent?
* Are there leaks or standing water anywhere-kitchen, basement, attic?
* Are all fuel-burning appliances (gas stoves, water heaters, fireplaces) fully vented to the outdoors?
* Are household chemicals, paints or solvents stored indoors or in an attached garage or basement?
* Have you recently remodeled or added new furniture, carpeting or painted?
* Do you use odor-masking chemicals or "air-freshening" devices?
* Has kitchen or food garbage been covered and removed?
* Have you used pesticides recently?
* Have you tested your home for radon?
After going through this checklist, your best bet would be to consider getting an air purifier. Air purifiers are used to reduce the concentration of indoor airborne contaminants, leading to cleaner air circulating through the respiratory system. Various indoor air contaminants such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and mold spores can act as allergens and trigger allergies in sensitive people. Air purifiers have been used to reduce the amount of these particles in the air, and are useful to people suffering from asthma and allergies.
Filter-based purification systems trap airborne particles by size exclusion. Air is forced through the filter and the particles are trapped. The most common of these filters is a high efficiency particle air (HEPA). HEPA filters remove at least 99.97% of airborne particles 0.3 micrometers in diameter. HEPA filters do not generate ozone or other harmful byproducts. Air ionizer attracts airborne particles to an electrode in an effect similar to static electricity. These ions are then de-ionized by seeking earthed conductors, such as walls and ceilings.
If you've discovered the air you're breathing in is unhealthy, getting an air purifier is a big step that you can take to not only breathe in cleaner air but prevent allergens from posing health risks to your family.
According to the American Lung Association, there is a checklist of things that you can use to tell how polluted your air is:
* Can you see or smell mold or mildew?
* Is the humidity regularly above 50 percent?
* Are there leaks or standing water anywhere-kitchen, basement, attic?
* Are all fuel-burning appliances (gas stoves, water heaters, fireplaces) fully vented to the outdoors?
* Are household chemicals, paints or solvents stored indoors or in an attached garage or basement?
* Have you recently remodeled or added new furniture, carpeting or painted?
* Do you use odor-masking chemicals or "air-freshening" devices?
* Has kitchen or food garbage been covered and removed?
* Have you used pesticides recently?
* Have you tested your home for radon?
After going through this checklist, your best bet would be to consider getting an air purifier. Air purifiers are used to reduce the concentration of indoor airborne contaminants, leading to cleaner air circulating through the respiratory system. Various indoor air contaminants such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and mold spores can act as allergens and trigger allergies in sensitive people. Air purifiers have been used to reduce the amount of these particles in the air, and are useful to people suffering from asthma and allergies.
Filter-based purification systems trap airborne particles by size exclusion. Air is forced through the filter and the particles are trapped. The most common of these filters is a high efficiency particle air (HEPA). HEPA filters remove at least 99.97% of airborne particles 0.3 micrometers in diameter. HEPA filters do not generate ozone or other harmful byproducts. Air ionizer attracts airborne particles to an electrode in an effect similar to static electricity. These ions are then de-ionized by seeking earthed conductors, such as walls and ceilings.
If you've discovered the air you're breathing in is unhealthy, getting an air purifier is a big step that you can take to not only breathe in cleaner air but prevent allergens from posing health risks to your family.
Tuesday, 5 January 2010
True HEPA Air Purifiers
You will probably see items that are labeled "True" HEPA if you shop for HEPA air purifiers. So, I'm sure you're wondering, does that mean there's a false one? Of course you would never find a product that boldly proclaimed to be a sub-standard HEPA purifier, but to be called a True HEPA purifier, there are some differences. As with any other purchase, it's left to the consumer to figure out the differences and know if they need to look for one or the other. Let's examine True HEPA air purifiers and why some products may not claim this.
How Are True HEPA Purifiers Different
There is a difference between a HEPA-type air purifier, and a True or absolute HEPA purifier, which is also called an absolute HEPA air purifier. Even if folks do not always make it clear, when they're comparing HEPA filters to other air filtration medium, especially if they're referencing the likes of OSHA or the EPA, they're talking about True or absolute HEPA filters. Yes, there are many types of air cleaners and purifiers available, but the only ones that places like labs and hospitals use are True HEPA air purifiers.
True HEPA Filters Stop 0.3 Micron Particles Of DOOM
Of the different specifications that True or absolute HEPA purifiers have to meet, the most important is probably the 97% of all 0.3 micron particles. This stat is incredibly important, and not as technical as it may sound. Of all the different pollutants floating around out there, it's been found that 0.3 micron particles generally are the hardest to filter, even including those that are smaller. They also are the most likely to cause problems in the human body, and have no problem scooting right past our natural defenses. See, 0.3 micron particles are more scary than nerdy, aren't they? If you want an idea of the size we're talking about, compare 0.3 microns to the human hair. Human hair is generally anywhere between 70 and 100 microns thick.
True HEPA Filters Actually Work Better When Dirty
Another big difference between HEPA-type purifiers and True HEPA filters is how they filter when they become dirty. This is where the "Absolute" part of the equation comes in. Any absolute filter media will actually become more effective as it gets dirtier. The more particles that are trapped in an absolute filter, the more effective it will be. The reason why is actually pretty simple. As dirt and other debris builds up around the air holes, those holes get smaller and smaller, allowing less to get through.
Is It A True HEPA Air Purifier? How To Know
Look for products that actually advertise that they are True or absolute HEPA air purifiers. The alternative is the HEPA-type purifier, which is really just an imitation, and is not held to any particular standard. If you find a purifier that doesn't say either HEPA-type or True HEPA, you can also reference other specifications on the box. Look for one that filters 97% or more of the 0.3 micron particles if you want a True HEPA air purifier.
How Are True HEPA Purifiers Different
There is a difference between a HEPA-type air purifier, and a True or absolute HEPA purifier, which is also called an absolute HEPA air purifier. Even if folks do not always make it clear, when they're comparing HEPA filters to other air filtration medium, especially if they're referencing the likes of OSHA or the EPA, they're talking about True or absolute HEPA filters. Yes, there are many types of air cleaners and purifiers available, but the only ones that places like labs and hospitals use are True HEPA air purifiers.
True HEPA Filters Stop 0.3 Micron Particles Of DOOM
Of the different specifications that True or absolute HEPA purifiers have to meet, the most important is probably the 97% of all 0.3 micron particles. This stat is incredibly important, and not as technical as it may sound. Of all the different pollutants floating around out there, it's been found that 0.3 micron particles generally are the hardest to filter, even including those that are smaller. They also are the most likely to cause problems in the human body, and have no problem scooting right past our natural defenses. See, 0.3 micron particles are more scary than nerdy, aren't they? If you want an idea of the size we're talking about, compare 0.3 microns to the human hair. Human hair is generally anywhere between 70 and 100 microns thick.
True HEPA Filters Actually Work Better When Dirty
Another big difference between HEPA-type purifiers and True HEPA filters is how they filter when they become dirty. This is where the "Absolute" part of the equation comes in. Any absolute filter media will actually become more effective as it gets dirtier. The more particles that are trapped in an absolute filter, the more effective it will be. The reason why is actually pretty simple. As dirt and other debris builds up around the air holes, those holes get smaller and smaller, allowing less to get through.
Is It A True HEPA Air Purifier? How To Know
Look for products that actually advertise that they are True or absolute HEPA air purifiers. The alternative is the HEPA-type purifier, which is really just an imitation, and is not held to any particular standard. If you find a purifier that doesn't say either HEPA-type or True HEPA, you can also reference other specifications on the box. Look for one that filters 97% or more of the 0.3 micron particles if you want a True HEPA air purifier.
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