Every sealed building, including your house, is practically occupied with re-circulated air. So imagine—you breathe in the same air in your home over and over again. This is why you need a device that will clean and purify your indoor air from all sorts of impurities.
When it comes to filtering air contaminants, there’s a common question that we hear from people. “Should I use an air cleaner or an air purifier?” “Are air purifiers and air cleaners the same?”
Well, let us give you a clear explanation of their functions and differences. Stay tuned!
What is an Air Cleaner?
Air cleaners are widely used in commercial and residential buildings to remove both bacteriological and physical contaminants that can infect the indoor air. However, they are not designed to eliminate gaseous pollutants. Air cleaners are available in various types and sizes, ranging from cost-effective tabletop models to more sophisticated expensive systems. Their efficiency is based on how well they gather and filter air pollutants.
How Does it Work?
An air cleaner allows the air to pass through built-in filters to eliminate various air particles. You should install an air cleaner in between your system (furnace or A/C) and return air ducts to make sure that the air flowing in your residential space is cleaned.
Some of the pollutants that air cleaners filter include cigarette smoke, pet dander, pollen, dust mites, soil, mold, ash, fungus, mildew, and bacteria.
What is an Air Purifier?
Air purifiers are also air cleaners. They are commonly portable units designed to provide a purified and cleaner indoor air in residential spaces. For homeowners who have concerns with gaseous contaminants, odor, allergens, microbial contaminants, dust, dander, smoke, and other irritants—an air purifier is an efficient solution.
How Does it Work?
Similar to air cleaners, an air purifier removes pollutants from your indoor air. But, instead of using built-in filters or screens, air purifiers kill and dissolve all air impurities through UV (ultraviolet) germicidal lights. With this, you’re guaranteed of a cleaner and healthier indoor air at home. Not to mention, they also operate silently.
Why Do I Need One?
Air contaminants are mostly microscopic elements that come in various forms. If not eliminated, these contaminants can cause havoc to your health and comfort. This is why you need an air cleaner or air purifier to filter these pollutants and reduce your risks of airborne diseases. They promote a healthier indoor environment by eliminating air pollutants and alleviating the symptoms of respiratory-related illnesses, asthma, allergies, dry throat, eczema, itchy skin, cold, flu, irritations, and many more.
Expert Tips in Choosing the Right Air Cleaner/Air Purifier
With lots of options, it’s definitely daunting to narrow down your search and choose the right one. Here are tips from the experts to land the best choice.
Know What You Need
Assess your needs and establish your requirements to narrow down your choices. Are you looking for something that removes both odor and air particles? Do you want to get rid of gaseous contaminants like carbon monoxide? Identify your exact needs before going out to purchase one.
Go for Higher Efficiency
Those with high-efficiency ratings are the best choice. Go for one with HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters for more satisfying results. This type of filter removes about 100% of air contaminants in your space, thus securing an air pollutant-free indoor environment.
Consider the Size of Your Space
Your choice should be able to clean and purify your entire space—whether it’s a commercial or residential building. Be sure to measure your room’s square footage before making your final decision.
Choose Convenience and Features Over the Style
Always select one that is portable (can be relocated anywhere), operates silently and comes with convenient features for added comfort. When planning to buy an air cleaner or air purifier, you have to consider its features and overall benefits.
Buy It If It’s Certified and Proven
If the product meets industry standards and criteria, then it’s a wise choice. Certifications show that it has gone through testing and been proven quality and efficient. Look for the label and check for certifications.
Which Should I Buy?
The answer depends on your individual IAQ needs and your space. If you don’t know which one to choose an air cleaner or air purifier, contact our IAQ specialists at Supreme Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. for assistance. We’ll be glad to help you with your needs in Middlesex, NJ and nearby areas.
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