It’s important to look for particular features in an air purifier, such ACH ratings and HEPA filtration, before purchasing one. In order to optimize the advantages of your air purifier and prevent some adverse consequences, take into account the below elements:
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Compatibility of Size
Different sized rooms require different types of air purifiers to properly purify the air. Ask customer service agents from different manufacturers what the ideal room size is. When an air purifier is appropriate for the size of your space, it works best. Purchase a model designed to work well in a somewhat larger space to save money on energy costs. In this manner, even while operating at a reduced level, the air purifier stays effective.
Level of Noise
The majority of HEPA filter air purifiers generate noise levels between 35 and 70 dB. The operating settings determine the degree of noise. Consider using air purifiers, which are effective even when set at a lower noise level, to prevent noise-related sleep interruptions.
HEPA-Type Filters
Avoid purifiers with “HEPA like” or “HEPA type” filters and instead look for genuine HEPA filters. Because they can capture microscopic germs, true HEPA filters are the most effective. Consider using HEPA and activated carbon filtered air purifiers if you also wish to stay away from gasses and smells.
Asthma and Allergy Compliant Accreditation
Many household goods on the market make exaggerated promises about their ability to manage allergies. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, in collaboration with Allergy Standards Limited (ASL), has developed a certification scheme to assist customers in making an educated choice. Products go through a battery of testing to make sure the air purifiers eliminate the majority of dangerous particles before being certified.
The home air purifiers are awarded the “asthma & allergy friendly®” mark if they pass all of the program’s testing. The accreditation guarantees you an excellent product that is ideal for allergy sufferers and has exceptional air filtering capabilities.
Rate of Clean Air Delivery (CADR)
The air purifier’s total cleaning speed for a given room size is indicated by its CADR. It displays the rate at which the air purifier can remove smoke, dust, and pollen particles—three of the most prevalent air contaminants found inside.
The tiniest particles are smoke particles, which can have a diameter of 0.1 to 0.3 microns. Pollen particles range in size from 5 to 11 microns, whereas dust particles are between 0.5 and 3 microns. A high CADR suggests that the air can be swiftly purified by the filters.
Cubic feet per minute (CFM) is used to measure CADR. An air purifier with 400 CFM, for instance, can filter the air in a 400 square foot space considerably quicker than one with 300 CFM. Bedrooms typically have a size of 250–350 square feet. For rooms of ordinary size, air purifiers with CADRs of 300 to 400 should be ideal.
The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers’ (AHAM) guidelines serve as the foundation for the CADR of air purifiers.
Rating for Air Change Per Hour (ACH)
The amount of times per hour that the total volume of air in your room is filtered is indicated by the ACH rating. Better efficiency is indicated by a higher ACH rating. Choose purifiers with at least a 4x or 5x ACH rating if you are prone to allergies or asthma. In this manner, you can guarantee that the air within is filtered more quickly. Maintaining regular filtration lowers the possibility of harboring infections within your interior space.
Emissions of Ozone
Ozone is produced by certain air purifiers when they are filtering. The effects of ozone gas on the respiratory system can be harmful. Make sure the air purifier produces ozone gas before making a purchase.
Upkeep
The typical cost of an air purifier is around $150. Depending on the brand, kind of filter, and maximum room area filtered, there are alternatives available at varying price points. You should consider the cost of maintenance when purchasing an air purifier.
The frequency of filter replacement determines the maintenance expenditures. Your energy statement should account for the utilization of your HEPA filter as well. Certain air purifiers, such those with UV lamps, have washable filters, although their power consumption is higher. Your power bill may increase as a result. Given that many germs are resistant to UV light, UV light air purifiers might not be as effective as HEPA air cleaners.
Energy-efficient HEPA air purifiers require only one filter change every three months to provide the best performance. Filter replacement typically costs $100 annually. You might have to pay extra to replace the filters in an air purifier if you choose one with many filters. For instance, if your air purifier has both HEPA and activated carbon filters, you will need to replace both of them every three to four months, which might cost you over $100 annually.