The terms air cleaner and air purifier are often used interchangeably, and each serves a similar purpose. But they rely on different filtering technologies to restore compromised indoor air quality, otherwise known as IAQ.
Air cleaners and air purifiers come in two types, whole-house and portable. The portable one will filter the air in specific rooms, while the whole-house are installed directly inside HVAC systems and can help keep the air quality fresh and healthy throughout the home.
Air Cleaners
For the removal of dust particles and other types of non-organic contaminants, air cleaners are highly recommended.
What are air cleaners? An air cleaner contains filters that remove a huge number of airborne contaminants from indoor breathing spaces. Over time these filters will have to be cleaned and/or changed, but with regular maintenance, they will do an excellent job of providing you with sufficient quantities of breathable air.
How do air cleaners work? Air cleaners are installed inside ductwork, where they can work their magic as HVAC systems continue to circulate air throughout the home. Each time air passes through, the filters will capture and remove more contaminants, and as long as you change the air cleaner filters on schedule, your air cleaner should deliver outstanding performance for years.
What do air cleaners filter? The list of indoor contaminants removed by a well-functioning air cleaner may include:
- Dust
- Dirt
- Pet dander
- Mold spores
- Pollen
- Dust mites
- Smoke
- Fumes or gases from cleaning products.
Whole-house air cleaners also offer excellent protection for those who are prone to allergies, asthma attacks, and dry and itchy skin, eyes, nasal and throat passages.