Air quality is not just an outdoor issue; the air inside our homes can also be laden with pollutants. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the importance of air purifiers and air cleaners, and why investing in a great air purifying device can significantly improve your indoor air quality. Buying an air purifier to give you healthy indoor air and improve your air circulation may seem daunting at first, but we're here to help you through the lingo and assist in making the right choice in buying an air cleaner that's perfect for you. With the quality of our air becoming more of a challenge in these modern times, air purifiers have seen a huge growth in popularity all over the world.
An air purifier, as the name suggests, purifies the air. But how does it do this? The answer lies in its core components: the filters. Air purifiers work by drawing in air from your environment, passing it through a series of filters to remove pollutants, and then releasing the clean air back into your home. This process of air treatment is continuous, ensuring that your indoor air stays fresh and clean.
The heart of an air purifier is its filter system. Most use multiple filters, each designed to remove different types of pollutants. The first line of defence is usually a pre-filter, which captures larger particles such as dust and pet hair. This not only cleans the air but also protects and extends the life of the other filters.
The most common type of filter found in these devices is the High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter. True HEPA filters are incredibly effective, capable of trapping 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. To put that into perspective, a single strand of human hair is about 70 microns in diameter, so we're talking about particles that are over 200 times smaller! But that’s not all - the IQAir Healthpro models are tested and proven to capture particles as tiny as .003 microns - one hundred times smaller than standard hepa.
This includes common allergens like pollen, mould spores, dust mites, bushfire smoke, fine dust, and pet dander. These filters are extremely effective, and so need replacing occasionally in order to remain at peak efficiency. Air Cleaners Australia supplies replacement filters from leading brands such as IQAir to ensure that filtration is always at optimum levels.
But what about pollutants that are even smaller, or those that are gaseous like volatile organic compounds (VOCs)? This is where activated carbon filters come in. They are made up of small pieces of carbon that have been treated to be extremely porous. Just one gram of activated carbon has a surface area of over 3,000 m². This large surface area is excellent for adsorbing (not absorbing) gaseous pollutants and odours.
It's important to note that not all air purifiers are created equal. When it comes to improving the air in a room, the quality of the unit, size of the room, the type of pollutants, dust and allergens, and fine particles it can capture, filter life, and the frequency of filter replacement all play a role in their effectiveness. That's why it's crucial to consider your specific needs when shopping for a device of this kind.
While we often associate air pollution with the outdoors, the truth is, the air inside our homes can be more polluted than the air outside. This is due to a variety of factors including dust, pet dander, mould spores, pollen, and household chemicals. These pollutants can accumulate to harmful levels, especially in homes with little to no ventilation.
Health Benefits
The primary reason to get an air purifier is to improve your health. Indoor air pollutants can cause a range of health issues from minor irritations like sneezing and coughing to more serious health problems like chronic respiratory diseases, heart disease, and even lung cancer. They can help alleviate allergic reactions by removing allergens from the air.
If you or a family member suffer from allergies, an air purifier can be a game-changer. It can extract allergens like pollen, dust particles, mites, and pet dander, providing relief from allergy symptoms. For those with respiratory conditions such as asthma, they can help by removing triggers for these conditions from the air. This includes pollutants like dust, smoke, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
While air purifiers are not a cure-all for illnesses, they can help reduce the spread of airborne diseases in your home.
If you’d like to know more about the quality of air and your health, and the health benefits of air purification, you can read more about how indoor air quality affects frequency and severity of common colds and how common toxins can pose a danger to your family's health at our newsroom.
Improved Sleep
Poor air quality can also disrupt your sleep, leading to symptoms like sneezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing. By purifying the air, these devices can help you sleep better. They can be particularly beneficial for people who suffer from sleep apnea and other respiratory conditions that can be exacerbated by poor air quality.
Odour Elimination
Air purifiers with activated carbon filters are excellent at removing odours. Whether it's cooking smells, pet odours, or smoke, one of these units can help keep your home smelling fresh. In conclusion, an air purifier is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to improve the quality of their indoor air. Whether you're battling allergies, trying to get a good night's sleep, or just want to breathe cleaner air, an air purifier can make a significant difference.
Allergies can be a real nuisance, causing symptoms like sneezing, itching, and difficulty breathing. They're triggered by allergens - substances that are harmless to most people but can cause reactions in those who are allergic. Common allergens include dust mites, dander from pets, mould spores, and pollen, all of which can be found in the air inside our homes. This is where air purifiers come in.
Removing Allergens from the Air
Air purifiers work by drawing in air and passing it through a series of filters. They are designed to capture particles of different sizes, including the tiny particles that make up common dust allergens. For instance, a true HEPA filter can capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, effectively removing most allergens from the air. But even better - the IQAir Healthpro models are tested and proven to capture particles as tiny as .003 microns - one hundred times smaller than standard hepa.
Reducing Symptoms
By removing allergens from the air, these units can help alleviate symptoms. This includes symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and difficulty breathing. For those who suffer from reactive symptoms, this can lead to a significant improvement in quality of life.
Creating a Healthier Living Environment
Air purifiers don't just help with allergies. By removing allergens and other pollutants from the air, they can create a healthier living environment for everyone in your home. This is particularly important for those with respiratory conditions or compromised immune systems, who may be more susceptible to the effects of poor-quality air.
The Role of Activated Carbon Filters
While HEPA filters are great at capturing particles, they're not as effective against odours and chemicals. This is where activated carbon filters come in. They can absorb odours and chemicals, including those that can trigger allergic reactions. For instance, many people are allergic to the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in household cleaning products, paints, and other common items. An activated carbon filter can help reduce the levels of these chemicals in your home, further helping to alleviate symptoms.
In conclusion, air purifiers can be a powerful tool in the fight against allergies. By removing allergens from the air, they can help reduce allergy symptoms and create a healthier living environment.
HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air. This kind of filter is a type of mechanical air filter; it works by forcing air through a fine mesh that traps harmful particles such as pollen, dander from pets, mites, and tobacco smoke.
To qualify as a true HEPA filter, it must be able to capture at least 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. This is known as the efficiency rating. It's worth noting that 0.3 microns is the most penetrating particle size (MPPS), which is the hardest size of particles to capture. Particles larger or smaller than this are trapped with even higher efficiency. This makes them incredibly effective at improving air cleanliness. But importantly - the IQAir Healthpro models are tested and proven to capture particles as tiny as .003 microns - one hundred times smaller than standard hepa.
HEPA filters are particularly good at capturing allergens. They can trap dust mites, mould spores, and pollen, all of which can trigger reactions. By removing these allergens from the air, this kind of filter can help reduce symptoms and create a healthier indoor environment.
By capturing particles as small as .003 microns, HealthPro models capture viruses, bacteria and micro-organisms. Even Covid 19 viruses were effectively removed from the many quarantine rooms, hospitals and clinics by the IQAir HealthPro during the Covid emergency.
To keep your purifier working effectively, it's important to replace the HEPA filter regularly.
The frequency of replacement depends on the quality of the air in your home and the specific recommendations of the purifier manufacturer. Some units have a light that will let you know when it's time to change the filter. At Air Cleaners Australia, we stock for IQAir filter replacements. IQAir is an excellent choice when it comes to air purification and we highly recommend this brand.
In conclusion, HEPA filters are a key component of air purifiers, playing a crucial role in improving indoor air quality.
While HEPA filters excel at trapping particulate matter, they fall short when it comes to neutralising odours and removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other gaseous pollutants. That’s because gases and fumes are molecular, rather than micron based and a molecule is one millionth of a micron, so it just passes straight through a hepa filter.
This is where activated carbon filters come into play.
Activated carbon filters are made from small pieces of carbon that are treated to be extremely porous. Just one gram of activated carbon has a surface area of over 3,000 m². This large surface area is excellent for adsorption, a process where certain particles are attracted to activated carbon and bond with it.
These filters excel at trapping odours, smoke, and certain chemicals. Whether it's the smell of last night's dinner, pet odours, or smoke, an activated carbon filter can help keep your home smelling fresh. Moreover, they can adsorb harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, benzene, and gases emitted by certain household cleaners and building materials.
But carbon alone does not offer full protection as some elements are not as carbon adsorbent as other media, such as permanganate. IQAir’s Multigas media is the best example of true gaseous protection.
The IQAir MultiGas Media
The IQAir MultiGas media offers both, physical and chemical filtration processes. As a result, theMultiGas media is able to trap a broader range of gaseous contaminants and odours than conventional room air purifiers. The uniquely-formulated activated carbon used in the MultiGas media provides higher performance for residential and light commercial applications. IQAir's activated carbon is activated for a maximum proportion of micropores. It is these optimised micropores that allow for maximum removal activity at the gaseous pollutant levels typically encountered in home, office and light commercial environments.
Conventional air cleaners use gas control media based on a purely physical filtration process, such as activated carbon and zeolite. For control of gaseous contaminants with a low molecular weight, such as formaldehyde and hydrogen sulfide, the MultiGas media contains a chemically active media, called ChemiSorber. This media is made of activated alumina (Al2O3) impregnated with potassium permanganate (KMnO4). This non-toxic media first physically binds selected contaminant molecules and then chemically destroys them through an oxidation process. However, no oxygen or ozone is generated, since the process is media based only. It is this combination of physical adsorption and chemisorption, which is at the basis of the broadspectrum gas and odour control capabilities of the MultiGas media which is contained in the IQAir HealthPro 150 (1 kg), HealthPro 250 (2.5 kg), GC MultiGas (5.4 kg) and GCX MultiGas (9.8 kg) models.
In addition to improving the smell of your home, reducing these pollutants can also have health benefits. Exposure to certain VOCs can lead to symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and in severe cases, damage to the liver, kidney, or central nervous system.
In conclusion, activated carbon filters play a crucial role in comprehensive air purification. They complement HEPA filters by dealing with gaseous pollutants that HEPA filters can't handle, ensuring your purifier provides the cleanest air possible.
While air purifiers are not a panacea for viruses, they can play a role in reducing airborne contaminants, including viruses, in a home or confined space. It's important to note that not all purifiers are designed to remove them, and their effectiveness can vary.
Air purifiers equipped with a True HEPA filter can capture some droplets that may contain viruses, depending on their size. For example, if these droplets are larger than 0.3 microns, ma standard hepa filter can help reduce the concentration of airborne diseases.
However, by capturing particles as small as .003 microns, IQAir HealthPro models capture viruses, bacteria and micro-organisms. Even Covid 19 viruses were effectively removed from the many quarantine rooms, hospitals and clinics by the IQAir HealthPro during the Covid emergency.
However, it's crucial to remember that while these devices can help reduce airborne diseases, they should not be relied upon as a sole measure to prevent viral infections. They should be used in conjunction with other preventive measures like good personal hygiene, regular cleaning of surfaces, and following public health advice and the advice of your healthcare professional.
Choosing the right air purifier can seem daunting given the range of options available. Here are a few key factors to consider:
The size of the room you want to purify is a crucial factor. Air purifiers are designed to clean the air in a specific room size, measured in square feet. Make sure to choose a model that's rated for the size of your room for it to be effective.
As we've discussed, the type of filter is critical. True HEPA filters can remove 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, making them excellent for allergens, dust, and more. Activated carbon filters are great for removing odours and chemicals. Some units combine these filters for a more comprehensive solution.
Consider your specific needs. If you have allergies, a HEPA filter is a must. For odours and chemicals, look for activated carbon filters.
Consider the maintenance requirements of these devices. Filters need to be replaced regularly to keep them working effectively. Some even have a filter replacement indicator, which can be handy.
Air purifiers can be noisy, especially on higher settings. If you're planning to use it in a bedroom or quiet space, consider the noise level. We can recommend models that will give you clean air while also giving you a peaceful and quiet environment.
Air purifiers can consume a significant amount of energy, especially if they're running continuously. Look for energy-efficient models to save on electricity costs.
In conclusion, choosing the right model for you comes down to understanding your specific needs and the features that different models offer. By considering the factors above, you can find a model that's perfect for you and your family.
Choosing the right air purifier can be a daunting task with so many options available on the market. As we mentioned earlier, not all air cleaners are created equal. If you're looking for some recommendations, Air Cleaners Australia can help. Let's delve into some of standout products that we endorse with confidence:
For those who are serious about purifying their indoor environment, the IQAir HealthPro 250 NE is a game-changer. This device is renowned for its advanced filtration system, ensuring that even the tiniest of pollutants don't stand a chance. It’s perfect for bedrooms, large living areas and offices. It runs quietly and efficiently to give you a peaceful and unobtrusive air cleaning solution.
If you're thinking about air purification and filtration for a whole-house, workplace, gymnasium, school, or other large area, the IQAir Perfect16 Ducted System is an excellent solution. It seamlessly integrates with your home or office’s existing HVAC system, providing comprehensive air purification for every room and large spaces. Find out about how better workplace air quality can equal higher productivity here.
Now, let's not forget about our cars. With the amount of time we spend driving, it's crucial to ensure the air we breathe inside our vehicles is clean. A new study has shown that the air inside cars can be substantially more polluted than the air outside. The toxins from that ‘new car smell’ may be detrimental to your health. Additionally, fumes from traffic and other outdoor pollutants can easily infiltrate our vehicles. The IQAir ATEM Car Air Purifier is specifically designed for mitigating this problem. Compact yet powerful, it ensures that pollutants from traffic, car interiors and other sources are kept at bay while you’re on the road.
Monitoring air quality is just as important as purifying it. The IQAir AirVisual Pro - Air Quality Monitor is an essential piece of technology that not only measures the quality of air in real-time but also provides forecasts and other crucial information about the air we breathe. It's like having a weather app right at your fingertips, but for air quality! It clearly displays all the information you need to know, giving you the power to make decisions about how to maintain your air quality in real time.
For those who have larger rooms and are looking for a robust purifier, the ATEM X will be arriving into Australia mid 2024 and will be the first choice. It's designed to handle bigger spaces, ensuring every corner of your space gets the clean air it deserves.
Remember, the key to choosing the right air purifier lies in understanding your specific needs and the space you want to purify. Whether it's your home, office, or car, there's a solution out there for you. And with these recommendations, you're already a step closer to breathing cleaner, healthier air. At Air Cleaners Australia, we are committed to answering any questions you may have about these and our many other products, accessories and services.
Navigating the world of air purifiers can seem complex, but with the right information, it becomes much simpler. We've explored what air purifiers are, how they work, and the crucial role of HEPA and activated carbon filters. We've also discussed their health benefits, their effectiveness against allergens and pathogens, and how to choose the right one for your needs, and we’ve made some recommendations.
Air purifiers can significantly improve the air quality inside your home, providing relief from allergic reactions, neutralising odours, and even helping to reduce the spread of airborne diseases. However, it's important to remember that they are just one part of maintaining a healthy indoor environment. Regular cleaning, good ventilation, and reducing sources of pollution are also crucial. And remember, while they may remove some particles from the air, air conditioners are not air purifiers, so don't rely on them for removing pollutants from your home. A great air purifier is a specialised device that is more than just a home appliance.
Remember, the air you breathe significantly impacts your health and well-being. There's not always a lot you can do about the outdoor air - but we can help you make a smart air choice inside of your home. Investing in an air purifier is an investment in your health. So why wait? Start your journey towards cleaner, healthier air today with Air Cleaners Australia. Shop air purifiers today with us!
At Air Cleaners Australia, we understand the importance of clean air and the problem of pollutants in your home. We've been providing solutions for private, commercial, and medical applications for almost 40 years, offering a full range of air purifiers, air cleaners, and related accessories. We're proud to sell and recommend only the highest performing air cleaning equipment and the world's most trusted brands.
Whether you're looking to alleviate allergy symptoms, improve your sleep, or simply want to breathe cleaner air inside your home or business, we're here to help. Whether you're looking for a portable air cleaner to remove dust and pollen or pollutants in the air in small rooms, or a powerful air cleaning solution for a large building or series of rooms, our team of experts can guide you through the process of choosing the right unit for your needs, ensuring you get the best experience possible.
Thank you for taking the time to read this guide. We hope it has been informative and helpful. If you have any questions or need further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Here's to breathing easy and living well!
