What does an Air Purifier do

Air purifiers are tasked with refreshing air and reducing the number of pollutants that contains in the air. To understand what does an air purifier do we have to first analyze the working conditions of an air purifier. The pollution levels in the air are gradually increasing at the present.

The increasing concern that is shown worldwide on factors that are affecting pollution provides a hint of a progressive threat in the future. Therefore many solutions are introduced to reduce the effect of air pollution, and one such solution that is limited to a small scale is air purifiers. 

These pollutants can lead to harmful diseases and may trigger or aggravate certain diseases in the human body. Individuals suffering from asthma can be leading victims of air pollution and suffer devastating health conditions. Air purifiers are able to eliminate these pollutants and reduce the level of risk while keeping us healthy.

What does an air purifier do

Air purifiers absorb pollutants that are moving in the air and filter these pollutants using different techniques such as HEPA filters and activated carbon filters. Clean air is then distributed to help create a healthy breathing environment. For efficient purification, it is necessary to replace these filters every 3 months.   

Studies have shown that air purifiers are able to remove 99.7% of airborne pollutants, which are indoors in a restricted space. These air purifiers are equipped with HEPA filters. Air purifiers of this type are recommended in a home environment and are known to bring long-term health benefits while giving breathable air to the lungs.

Types of air pollutants

Household pollutants can vary in terms of nature of these pollutants. Harmful gases are emitted from insecticides and cleaning materials can be present in the indoor area. These gases in the long-term may cause harm to your lungs. The proper method of getting rid of these types of gases is efficient ventilation rather than air purifiers. Ventilation allows fresh air inside a house and polluted air to be pushed out, therefore ventilation is crucial when considering the air quality of the home.

Pet dander is one of the common problems that every household has to deal with. Dogs and cats will leave a lot of hair in places that are impossible for the naked eye, these particles can move in the air and later form small hair circles which are inhaled and can cause harm and trigger asthma conditions. Air purifiers can trap these pollutants and ensure that they are not in motion to cause harm.

Pollen and dust mites can also be a common problem that pollutes the air indoors. The lack of fresh air can cause these pollutants to act up as it forms a perfect breathing ground. 

The functionality of air purifiers can be complicated as many types of air purifiers are available in the market. At AHC we recommend filters that are equipped with HEPA filters or activated carbon filters.

Types of air purifiers that are safe

Air Purifers with HEPA Filters

HEPA filters are designed to trap micro-particles including viruses and bacteria pollutants. It is manufactured with multi-layered fiberglass mesh to assist in capturing tiny pollutants. Enhanced mechanisms can be found in some air purifiers such as a pre-filter which assists in trapping primary particles and transferring air to HEPA filters to capture the microform of particles. This enables the air purifier to perform efficiently increasing its functional capabilities long term.

Activated Carbon Purifiers

Activated carbon filters are equipped with a mesh filter that is formed by activated carbon pores. These filters can capture small pollutant particles. These filters can’t however capture viruses and bacteria, unlike HEPA filters. 

An air purifier has a simple cycle of operation and yet provides a massive advantage in terms of increasing air quality. The air purifier absorb polluted air and then this air travels through the pre-filter and HEPA filter to ensure that the pollutants are trapped within the filters. Clean air is then distributed from the air purifier to ensure a proper breathing environment. 

Air purifiers can have different types of mechanisms to increase their functionality and in some instances may harm your lungs too. Therefore, make sure that you are not purchasing an air purifier because of any marketing scheme as these appliances require in-depth research before purchasing.

Types of air purifiers harming your health

Ionizers

Air purifiers that contain ozone generators are classified as harmful to health. These types of air purifiers are used to eliminate certain odors and in special circumstances in commercial properties under professional supervision. Ionizers are not advised to be used indoors with human presence as these may cause severe lung damage and chest pain.

Ultra Violet Purifiers

Another type of mechanism is the UV light air purifier. These air purifiers kill pollutants through UV rays that travel through the air purifier. In most cases, these air purifiers are not efficient and effective. UV light rays need a long time to disinfect any pollutants from the air, when air is traveling through the air purifier it does not remain within the purifier to be adequately disinfected. Some ultraviolet air purifiers emit ozone as a by-product, therefore check the air purifier before purchasing. 

Electrostatic Precipitators

Electrostatic precipitators are another air purifier that uses voltage to disinfect pollutants. These pollutants are absorbed and given a charge which allows them to remain in the electrostatic plate. The charging of the plate is regularly maintained to increase the efficiency of these air purifiers and this may cause energy consumption. These air purifiers are also known to emit ozone as a by-product.

Are air purifiers worth it

Air purifiers are becoming an essential appliance with the increasing pollution rates. These appliances are more suited to individuals with asthma conditions and breathing difficulties. Purchasing an air purifier alone will not be beneficial for indoor air purification. It is essential to ensure proper ventilation is available indoors before making your purchasing decision. An air quality check if possible can be done before purchasing an air purifier to get an understanding of the condition of the air that you are currently breathing.   

With proper ventilation, air purifiers can provide immense value for your money by eliminating various pollutants ranging from pollen to viruses and bacteria. Air purifiers are worthy appliances that provide clean and breathable air which prevents disastrous lung conditions and fatal health conditions.