We Canadians spend much of our time indoors, where pollutant levels can often exceed those found outdoors. The best way to reduce your exposure to indoor air pollution is by using an air purifier.
But how do you know which one to choose or what to look for? Here, we lay out the info you need by answering your most frequently asked questions.
1. How Much Space Will an Air Purifier Cover?
The space an air purifier can cover depends on its Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR), a measure of the volume of filtered air delivered by an air purifier. Higher CADR ratings indicate a greater ability to clean larger volumes of air within a specific timeframe.
Always check the CADR rating and ensure it matches the size of the room where you plan to use it. A unit’s capacity might be insufficient if placed in a space larger than its designated coverage area.
2. Are Air Purifiers Loud?
The noise level of air purifiers varies depending on the model, the fan speed setting, and whether it has noise-reducing features. High-end models usually offer quiet operation, especially on lower settings. Many modern air purifiers come equipped with “quiet” or “night” modes that minimize operational noise.
3. Where Is the Ideal Placement for My Whole-Home Air Purifier?
Central or whole-home air purifiers work best when integrated into your home’s existing HVAC system, where they can filter the air throughout the entire house. Ideally, the unit should be installed in a location that allows for unobstructed airflow and is easily accessible for maintenance and filter replacement. Proper placement ensures that air is efficiently filtered, regardless of the room you’re in, providing consistent air quality throughout your living spaces.
4. When Should I Run My Air Purifier?
For optimal results, air purifiers should ideally run continuously as air quality can change rapidly. Many models have energy-saving modes or programmable timers that ensure they clean your air without consuming too much energy. Keep in mind that doors and windows should be kept closed when the purifier is in use to avoid overburdening it with outside pollutants.
5. What Is the Difference Between Different Types of Filters?
There are several types of air filters available. High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are able to remove 99.97% of particles that are greater than 0.3 microns in size, making them effective against common allergens. Activated carbon filters are another option, specialized in removing odours, gases, and VOCs by adsorption. Other filters, such as UV-C light filters, can kill bacteria and viruses, while Ionizers use ions to neutralize particulates in the air.
6. Do Air Purifiers Reduce Mould?
Air purifiers can help reduce mould spores present in your home’s air. Mould spores are typically between 1 and 5 microns in size, making them an excellent match for HEPA filters, which remove particles as small as 0.3 microns. By trapping these spores, an air purifier can help prevent the spread of mould within your home. However, remember that an air purifier can’t remove mould already growing on surfaces; for that, thorough cleaning and addressing the source of dampness is essential.
7. What Are the Best Air Purifiers for Allergies and Asthma?
Allergy and asthma sufferers often find relief with air purifiers that use true HEPA filters. These filters are effective in removing common airborne allergens like dust mites, pollen, mould spores, and pet dander. Models with an added activated carbon filter can also remove odours, smoke, and chemical pollutants, which may also trigger asthma symptoms.
8. What Air Purifiers Are Best for Pets?
Air purifiers with HEPA filters are the best option for dealing with pet dander, which can be as small as 5 microns. These filters can trap and remove the tiny particles reducing allergens in your home. Some models also have pre-filters that capture larger particles, like pet hair. This can extend the life of the HEPA filter and reduce dust in the home.
9. Is it Expensive to Run an Air Purifier?
The cost of running an air purifier can depend on several factors, including its wattage, how long it runs each day and the cost of electricity in your area. Many modern models are energy-efficient and using them continuously may not significantly impact your electricity bill. Additionally, the benefits of cleaner, healthier air often outweigh the small energy costs.
10. Do All Air Purifiers Do the Same Thing?
No, although they share a common goal. Different air purifiers and filters are designed to tackle different types of pollutants. HEPA filters are great at removing particulate matter like dust, pollen, and pet dander. Activated carbon filters are best at dealing with chemical pollutants, odours, and smoke. UV filters are the only ones that can effectively kill bacteria, viruses and microbes. Therefore, you should choose an air purifier based on what you need to target in your home the most.
Find the Perfect Air Purifier for Your Home Today
An air purifier is an investment in your health and well-being. If you still have questions or need help selecting the right air purifier, the experts at Dows ClimateCare are always ready to assist. Contact us today to breathe easier in your home.
