Whether you realize it or not, the air in your home is full of all sorts of microscopic airborne pollutants. Some of these pollutants are simple annoyances, some can make you sick, and in rare cases, a few of them can be fatal. What can you do about it? You can use an air purifier. Air purifiers are devices designed to cleanse the surrounding air of various kinds of common air contaminants. There are a variety of different methods that these purifiers use, each suited for a slightly different group of pollutants. Read on for a list of some of the more common options.
HEPA Filters
HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air. HEPA filters are very similar to normal air filters that you’ll find in furnaces and the like. The difference is in the quality of the construction. HEPA filters are composed of a fiber mesh woven over a metal frame. The mesh is woven so tightly that it can even capture microscopic viruses and bacteria, something that an average filter can’t do. HEPA filters are often used in sterile environments, like hospitals and server rooms. You may not need a filtration system of this quality, but it helps to know that it’s an option.
Ionization Purifiers
Ionization purifiers work by generating an electric field around themselves. As the particulates in the air pass through this field, they acquire a negative charge. This negative charge causes them to be attracted to any positively charged surface, including the metal plates installed in the purifier itself. These metal plates can then be removed and cleaned. Ionization purifiers can capture a wide variety of air pollutants. Be warned, however, that they can have their own side effects. The EPA has found that ionization purifiers produce ozone as a byproduct of their operation. Ozone is classified as toxic gas, and can be harmful to people. We highly recommend that you speak to a professional yourself before deciding on what air purifier to use.
If you’d like to know more about which air purifier might be right for you, call J&W Heating and Air + Plumbing to speak with one of our qualified technicians. We professionally install air purifiers in the Jacksonville area.
