Information on Air Purifiers

The American Medical Association estimates that as many as half of all illnesses reported are due to or aided by indoor air pollution. Many people spend their entire day indoors whether at home, school or work. An air purifier is an easy way to decrease the indoor air pollutants that you are breathing.

Function

The average air purifier can remove up to 99.9% of airborne mold, bacteria, allergens and viruses. This will greatly improve the overall health of those in the home and prevent the spread of diseases.

Identification

Look for air purifiers with a "Clean Air Delivery Rating" or CADR. The higher the number, the better the quality of purification.

HEPA Filters

HEPA air filters are the most costly, but also the most effective as they remove 99.97% of air pollution.

UV Purifiers

Air purifiers that use ultraviolet lights remove bacteria from the air, but will not remove chemicals or airborne allergens.

Other Purifiers

Air purifiers that use activated carbon or hydroxyl radicals remove pollutants including mold, bacteria and viruses effectively. Activated carbon is also useful for removing odors.

Warning

Air purifiers that use ions can create ozone, a potentially toxic substance. These remove odors well but do little to reduce air pollution.

Considerations

An air purifier will only affect the air that passes through it. Therefore, it is important to place your air purifier in a room where you spend a lot of time, or that is most likely to have a high level of air pollution.

Resources

• Air Purifiers - Everything you Need to Know