When it comes to indoor air quality solutions, air purifiers stand out for their capability to target pollutants floating around indoors. The trusted provider of forced air heating and cooling systems, OK Heating and Air Conditioning, explores in this blog post the specific pollutants that air purifiers target. It also takes a look at the different air purifiers on the market.
Key Pollutants Targeted by Air Purifiers
Air purifiers are designed to combat a wide array of indoor air pollutants to improve the air quality in your home or business. Some of the primary pollutants include:
- Allergens. Indoor air is rife with allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and pollen. These tiny particles can provoke allergic reactions and aggravate asthma symptoms. Air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters are exceptionally effective at trapping these particles, significantly reducing their presence in the air.
- Smoke and Odors. Certain air purifiers can get rid of smoke from tobacco, cooking, and outdoor fires, which can create unpleasant odors and potentially harm your lungs. Air purifiers work to filter out smoke particles and neutralize odors, ensuring your indoor environment remains fresh and clean.
- Mold Spores. Mold growth in damp areas of your home can release spores into the air, posing health risks, especially to individuals with respiratory conditions. Air purifiers can help reduce the concentration of mold spores in the air, contributing to a healthier living environment.
- Gaseous Pollutants. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from cleaning products, paints, and other household items can significantly degrade indoor air quality. Certain air purifiers with activated carbon filters are adept at absorbing these gases, thus minimizing your exposure to harmful chemicals.
The Different Types of Air Purifiers
Whether used as a standalone unit or incorporated into existing heating and air conditioning units, air purifiers vary when it comes to the method used in getting rid of pollutants discussed above. Here’s a look at some of the most common:
- Filtration-Based Air Purifiers. These purifiers use HEPA filters to physically trap particulate matter. They are highly effective against dust, pollen, and pet dander, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.
- UV Light Air Purifiers. Utilizing ultraviolet light, these purifiers can neutralize microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses, providing an added layer of protection against airborne pathogens.
- Electrostatic Precipitators. By charging airborne particles and collecting them on oppositely charged plates, these air purifiers can remove pollutants without the need for traditional filters. However, they may produce small amounts of ozone.
At OK Heating and Air Conditioning, we carry a range of air purifiers from top HVAC manufacturer Bryant®, designed to address the specific needs of our customers. Whether you’re looking to combat allergens, mold, smoke, VOCs, or a combination of these pollutants, we have solutions that can help create a healthier, more comfortable indoor environment.
For all your heating and air conditioning needs, give us a call at (925) 371-2665, or fill out our contact page to get started.