Air pollutants in a home are dangerous to human health. These pollutants come from many sources, including cooking, cleaning, and building materials. Indoor air quality varies by home and the time of day. People spend most of their time indoors, so their exposure to airborne pollutants is frequent. Installing an air purifier can help remove these pollutants.
Removing the source of these pollutants is the best way to improve indoor air quality. Before they get an air purifier system installed, homeowners need to understand the options available to them. Many people today decide that a portable air cleaner is insufficient and opt for a central air purification system.
Ionizers
An ionizer is an air purifier that contains an electronic filter designed to remove pollutants from the air. This filter emits negatively charged ions into the air in a room, charging harmful particles in the air and removing them. Ionizers benefit people who need to remove smaller particulates from the air and minimize allergens like tobacco smoke. The Environmental Protection Agency says that ionizers do not help remove larger particles, and any particles that cling to hard surfaces may loosen and end up in the air again.
Ultraviolet Light Cleaners
Another option for homeowners is an ultraviolet light cleaner. Often referred to as a UV air cleaner or germicidal ultraviolet radiation air purifier, these devices clean the air in a home. Humans cannot see UV light, but it does impact their health. The sun is a UV light source and may help clean indoor air, particularly UV-C light.
The UV air purifier emits light that attacks airborne microorganisms and particulates growing in the HVAC system. These UV cleaners work best when used in conjunction with other air cleaners. Furthermore, homeowners must ensure the UV lighting in the system is specially designed to clean air. The goal is to avoid overexposure to harmful UV rays.
Mechanical Filter Systems
Mechanical filtration systems are the best air cleaners. They consist of filters installed in an HVAC system. As air moves through the system, it passes through the filter, which catches particulates and traps them so they will not circulate throughout the home.
When selecting a filter for the system, the homeowner must look at the filter rating. The United States uses the MERV system to rate the efficiency of air filters. This system looks at filters that capture larger particles ranging between 3 and 10 microns. Experts recommend a MERV 13 filter for homes with air handlers, central AC, and furnaces. HEPA filters can remove up to 99.97% of airborne particles at least 3 microns in size. However, most home HVAC systems cannot support these filters because they don’t produce adequate airflow for them.
Furthermore, homeowners must consider the filter material. Most HVAC experts recommend fiberglass, pleated, or activated carbon filters. Fiberglass is ideal for those on a budget, while activated carbon filters target VOCs. Pleated filters remove allergens from the home, making them suitable for individuals with health issues and those with pets.
Air purification systems offer numerous benefits. However, homeowners must know whether to choose a portable air purifier or a whole-house system. Many individuals today choose whole-house systems because they want clean air throughout the home. Speak with an HVAC specialist to learn more about these systems and how they can benefit you.
