First, you want to consider the PARTICLE REMOVAL METHOD of the AIR PURIFIER. This refers to the way in which the purifier takes the dirt out of the air. There are four particle removal methods:- MECHANICAL FILTER: Allows delivery of more clean air, at a faster rate, with less noise.
- ELECTROSTATIC AIR CLEANER: In this case, a statically charged collection plate or filter is used to trap particles.
- ION GENERATOR: This is a negatively charged collector that attracts the positively charged particles in the air to produce clean air. This filter generates negatively charged ions that act as a magnet. Dust and dirt particles are removed from the air and adhere to the filter.
- HYBRID: A hybrid purifier utilizes more than one of the above particle removal methods to capture different sized particles from the air.
You must also consider the FILTER TYPE of the air purifier. Filters are a must to remove odors and dust. There are three main types of filters:- HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air): This filter can remove high amounts of dust with the greatest efficiency, as well as animal dander, pollen and dust mites. True HEPA is 99.97% efficient, so you want to look for a model with True HEPA (especially if you have allergies).
- ULPA (Ultra Low Penetration Air-also referred to as Ultra HEPA Filter): This filter can remove from the air at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria and any airborne particle, and is best for removing even the smallest particles.
- CHARCOAL OR CARBON: Charcoal or carbon filters remove larger particles such as smoke, bathroom smells, and cooking odors. These types of filters are often found as a pre-filter combined with HEPA or ULPA.
When choosing a unit, look closely at the AIR CHANGE/EFFICIENCY RATE. This is the number of times that the unit can filter out the air in a specified sized room each hour. When making your comparisons, remember that the more changes per hour in the same size room determines the most efficient machine. The optimal air change rate is 6 times per hour. You should be purchasing an air purifier that can accommodate the room size you want it to filter. For example, if your room dimensions are 12' x 15', then look for the model which will provide the highest air change rate for a room close to that size, and preferably one that is True HEPA.
Also, take note of the CLEAN AIR DELIVERY RATE (CADR). The CADR indicates the volume of filtered air delivered by an air cleaner. The higher the tobacco smoke, pollen and dust numbers, the faster the unit filters the air. Use the rule of 2/3's to clean the air quicker. You always want a unit with a tobacco smoke CADR at least 2/3 your room's area. For example, a 10' x 12' room (120 square feet) would require an air cleaner with a tobacco smoke CADR of at least 80.
The other factor is the size and style of the unit. This is determined by the size of the room in which it will be used. Some units have airflow from only one side, others can have a 360-degree airflow, and certain models are designed to circulate air up and out into the room. (This is the most efficient way to eliminate pockets of dirty air).
Almost all units come in neutral colors such as white, gray or beige, to blend into the room. The focus here really is function, not style, so choose the unit that will be the most effective in each room.
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