7 Considerations to Make Before Buying an Air Purifier

Many homeowners have heard of the benefits of installing an air purifier, but not all air purifiers are created equal. Unfortunately, buying one that doesn’t meet your needs or expectations will end up being a waste of money and may require that you invest in another air-purifying solution. Below, we’ll discuss the risks of not buying the right air purifier and seven considerations you should make before you buy one for your home.

Why You Need the Right Air Filter

Some homeowners think that an air filter is an air filter, and the only major difference between models is the price. Unfortunately, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Air filters vary in many ways, including the type of filtration, the contaminants they scrub from the air, the room size for which they’re rated, and much more.

You can install any air filter you choose, but ultimately its effectiveness will depend on how well it’s suited for your home and your expectations.

7 Things to Consider Before Buying an Air Purifier

Below are seven things you should consider when shopping for the right air filter for your home.

1. Filtration Method

Not all air purifiers use the same type of filters. Some use a mechanical filter that traps large contaminants in a mesh screen or other physical filter. Some include HEPA filters, which are mechanical but can catch very tiny particles. Others use UV radiation to kill microorganisms, and some use carbon filters to remove odors. The best air filters use all three types or some combination for the best results.

2. Types of Contaminants

Not all air purifiers can remove the same contaminants from your air. Based on the power and filter type, air purifiers can remove just dust and pollen, kill bacteria and viruses, remove odors from your air, or all of the above. It’s best to choose a filter that will remove all contaminants you’re concerned with in your home.

3. In-Line Vs. Standalone

Air purifiers come in two main options: one that gets installed in your HVAC system and one that sits on your floor as a standalone unit. In-line options are generally more powerful and more effective because they scrub all air circulating in your home. However, they tend to be more expensive as well.

4. Room Size Rating

All air purifiers come with a room size rating. An underpowered air purifier for your space won’t do much in the way of cleaning the air, so you should always match your purifier capacity to the size of the room or area you intend to clean.

5. Durability

Air purifiers, like all other home equipment, will have varying durability and longevity. In-line filters tend to last longer, as do more expensive purifiers. Always check the expected lifespan before committing to an air purifier.

6. CADR Rating

The CADR rating of an air purifier provides a detailed rating for how effectively the equipment removes contaminants of different sizes from the air. A better CADR rating will lead to cleaner air and fewer odors.

7. Noise

Finally, all air purifiers make some kind of noise, so you should consider where it will be housed and choose one that won’t interrupt sleep, work, or other daily activities. In-line air purifiers usually cannot be heard throughout the house, but standalone units will.

Wrapping Up: Why You Need an Air Purifier

Air purifiers provide clean, healthy air for you and your family to breathe. They have been shown to reduce illness and allergy symptoms, making them an important purchase for countless homeowners.

If you’re ready to experience the benefits of air purification in your home, take a look at Air Design’s selection of top-of-the-line air purifiers that are sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.