According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor spaces are two to five times more polluted than outdoor areas due to indoor air pollutants. Air purifiers help reduce common pollutants such as dust, pollen and mold. Here local heating and air conditioning company OK Heating shares the questions you should ask before buying an air purifier.
Do I need an air purifier?
There are certain situations where an air purifier can make a dramatic difference in the home, such as if you or someone in your household is prone to respiratory problems triggered by particulates, such as asthma or certain types of allergies. There are also air purifiers that are specially designed for households with pets. If you’re caring for an infant, an air purifier can help reduce indoor air pollutants such as VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that are off-gassed from common materials such as paint and plastics.
What size air purifier do I need?
Consider the square footage of the room in which you want to use the air purifier. A small air purifier typically covers up to 300 square feet, while a large one can cover up to 1,900 square feet. Whole-house air purifiers are also available and can be installed with air conditioning and forced air heating systems.
What features should I look for?
Not all air purifiers are made the same way. Whether you’re looking for a small standalone unit or a whole-house system, look for features such as ENERGY STAR® certification (which indicates energy efficiency), Wi-Fi connectivity and a readable panel that reminds users when to change their air filters or when indoor air quality drops to a certain level.
Does the manufacturer offer replacement air filters?
Air purifiers utilize air filters that need to be replaced periodically. This means you should be able to purchase replacement air filters as needed, either from the air purifier manufacturer or a certified third-party supplier. Alternatively, look for air purifiers that utilize heat or UV rays for purification, as they don’t require such filters to operate.
Call OK Heating for Your Indoor Air Quality Needs
OK Heating is your leading provider of air conditioning units and indoor air quality services. Give us a call at (925) 337-8319 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.