Things You'll Need:
- Indoor air purifier with a true HEPA filter.
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Step 1
Determine the square footage of the space where the indoor air purifier will be used. Choose a unit based on its recommended room size, or its air volume capacity.
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Step 2
Look for an air purifier with a high efficiency particulate arresting (HEPA) filter to eliminate indoor allergens. Models with true HEPA filters have the capacity to capture pollen, dust mite, mold spores, pet dander, and other common indoor allergens that are as small as 0.3 microns. Units that have HEPA type filters are less efficient as compared to ones that have true HEPA filters.
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Step 3
Consider the replacement costs of a HEPA filter before making a purchase. Most models of air purifiers require their filters to be replaced annually. Some newer models are equipped with permanent HEPA filters that only need to be vacuumed a couple of times in a year.
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Step 4
Take the noise factor into consideration if sounds bother you. Some air purifiers are noisier than others. Test out the unit for noise in the store before making a purchase.
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Step 5
Look for an air purifier with at least three different fan speeds. Having three different fan speeds gives people different options to run the unit. For example, they are able to run the unit on high when efficiency is required, on medium at most other times, and on low at night when a lower noise level is desired.
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Step 6
Look for a model with an energy star rating for lower power consumption. Unlike many other devices, indoor air purifiers are left on for the entire length of the day and night. Using an energy efficient model not only results in a lower utility bill, but is also better for the environment.
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Step 7
Avoid indoor air purifiers that are ionizers, or have an electrostatic action. These units release a small amount of ozone indoors that can exacerbate asthma and upper respiratory problems.
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Step 8
Practice other allergy reducing steps, in addition to using an indoor air purifier, such as controlling humidity, cleaning and vacuuming regularly, and avoiding scented and avoiding harsh cleaning agents to keep allergens at bay indoors.
Comments
kittykat3 said
on 9/21/2009 These are excellent tips on how to choose indoor air purifiers for allergies. 5*
paigeturner said
on 9/8/2009 Great tips!5*
jenniferclaerr said
on 9/4/2009 Great tips on choosing an indoor air purifier. I have allergies, as does my oldest son, and the pollution inside my home really concerns me.
kristara said
on 8/22/2009 Great advice for allergy sufferers. 5*
aguy said
on 8/21/2009 Step 7 is really good information. It is good that you are passing this info on. 5