As with any major home appliance purchase, there is a lot to consider when choosing the right air purification system for your needs. 

Unlike your dishwasher or laundry units, which are used only occasionally, an air purifier is designed to run continuously throughout the day so that it can maintain clean, breathable air for your indoor environment. 

Whether you opt for an in-duct or in-vent system, or you are looking for a portable air purifier for a specific room in your home, there are countless options and brands available to choose from. Where should you begin? 

First, let’s consider the benefits. 

Why do you need a home air purifier?

Few appliances in your home will have more of an impact on your health (and the health of your loved ones) than an air purification system. 

While we tend to think of air pollution as something that primarily affects our outdoor environment, experts tell us that our indoor air can be just as polluted—and sometimes even more polluted—than the air outside our homes. 

Exposure to indoor air pollutants such as dirt, dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, bacteria and viruses, and toxic compounds found in everyday products can exacerbate existing health conditions and lead to more serious issues over time. 

In a study published by the National Institutes of Health, researchers described indoor air pollution as “a serious threat to human health” and linked it to more than 3.8 million deaths annually. Among their three top strategies to improve indoor air quality was the development of air purification technologies. 

How do air purifiers work? 

The primary function of an air purification system is to pull in indoor air and capture impurities and contaminants using one or more filtration and/or purification methods. It then recirculates the clean air back into the indoor environment. 

Leading air purification technologies include:

HEPA (mechanical filtration)

HEPA stands for “high-efficiency particulate air”. This type of air filter is generally more effective at removing very small airborne particles from indoor environments, which can help reduce the risk of exposure to harmful pollutants and allergens.

Activated carbon 

Activated carbon filters use a process called adsorption to trap and remove pollutants from the air. They are particularly effective at trapping gaseous pollutants (including volatile organic compounds), which then adhere to the surface of the filter. 

Photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) technology

This type of proactive air purification technology mimics the organic process of photolysis, whereby sunlight interacts with moisture and creates oxidative molecules. Those molecules are then released back into the air to seek out and reduce contaminants in the indoor environment. 

Ionization

Air purifiers that utilize ionization release negatively charged ions into the air so they can attach themselves to airborne pollutants. As a result, those particles sink to nearby surfaces where they can be easily removed during household cleaning. 

What about ozone-emitting air purifiers?

Many air purifiers on the market emit ozone, which manufacturers claim can neutralize airborne pollutants. However, ozone itself is a pollutant, and inhaling it can cause serious health issues in both humans and pets. 

Experts at the EPA caution that ozone is “generally ineffective at controlling indoor air pollution” and instead recommend using proven methods of air cleaning. This includes the use of a non-ozone-emitting air purifier. 

Top factors to consider when choosing an air purifier

If you are looking into purchasing an air purification system for your Connecticut home, there are several factors to consider when weighing the pros and cons. 

• Room size: It is important to measure the square footage of the area you want your air purifier to clean. This will help you determine whether or not the unit you choose can provide suitable coverage.

• Filtration type: Your specific health needs, as well as the size of the space you want to cover, will help you determine which filtration systems will be most effective. It will also help you choose between in-duct/in-vent systems or portable units.

• Cost: The size of your budget will also impact your choice of home air purification system, so you should always compare the prices for different products. Be sure to include the cost of replacement filters as well as anticipated maintenance expenses. 

• Energy efficiency: If energy-efficient technology is high on your list of must-haves for your home appliances, look for an air purifier with an ENERGY STAR certification. Such products have been tested and certified by the EPA to be highly efficient while at the same time using less energy. 

• Noise: Some units can generate more noise than others and may not be suitable for bedrooms, nurseries, home offices, and other spaces where a quiet atmosphere is needed. Look for air purifiers with silent operation to maintain a peaceful environment. 

A word about CADR 

When shopping for an air purifier, you might hear the term CADR. It stands for clean air delivery rate, a metric created by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers to indicate how much air a unit can filter and deliver per minute. 

However, because it was developed over four decades ago, CADR does not take into account the evolution of indoor environments (i.e., larger rooms, improved ventilation methods, installed ceiling fans) and therefore may not be as reliable as it once was. 

Clean air is essential for healthy living. 

Taking steps to improve the air we breathe indoors is critically important. Experts at the EPA recommend the following two action items to improve indoor air quality:

1. Use a high-efficiency air filter for your home HVAC system.

2. Use a non-ozone-emitting air purifier to promote a healthier indoor environment.

CT Mold Pros highly recommends Beyond by Aerus™ indoor air quality solutions. 

The proprietary ActivePure^® technology reduces up to 99.9% of many common airborne and surface contaminants to keep the air in your home clean and breathable. 

Beyond by Aerus offers a variety of in-duct and in-vent products to meet your needs, as well as portable air filters for every room in your home. Some products are even designed for commercial and industrial use. 

CT Mold Pros is a certified installer of Aerus systems. Call (203) 920-0265 or fill out our online form to learn more.