Air purifiers: types, popular models and features of choice

Clean air is the key to health and wellness. Residents of high-rise buildings in large cities may lack this important component, due to the unfavorable environmental situation and the possibility of unpleasant odors from neighboring apartments. A household air purifier can be a good helper for improving air quality.

An air purifier (air purifier) ​​is a special device for cleaning indoor air from various kinds of harmful impurities.

Environmental conditions in most large settlements are far from ideal. Road dust, gas pollution from transport, tobacco smoke easily enter residential and office premises, fill with unpleasant odors and harm health. At the same time, the newest ventilation and air conditioning systems have their drawbacks.

The smell, it would seem, evaporates, but in fact, the remaining pollution does not disappear anywhere, but continues to circulate inside the room. Households will again breathe polluted air.

The purpose of the air cleaner is to trap and neutralize all negative components. It is desirable to have such a device for all residents in apartment buildings of a metropolis. But it is more necessary for people prone to allergies to odors, the elderly and families with small children.

The constant use of an air purifier helps to get rid of the following harmful and allergenic substances:

• unpleasant odors of any kind;
• smoke;
• dust;
• fungi and mold;
• microbes and bacteria;
• toxic gases;
• pollen;
• dust mite;
• chemical substances;
• static electricity.

Whatever the type of air purifier, its benefits are vast and tangible. It helps to remove almost all types of dirt and create a comfortable living environment. Helps maintain health and relieves the human respiratory system from unnecessary stress.

The air purifier works quite simply. The small housing contains certain cleaning filters (depending on the model) and a fan that circulates the air. When the device is plugged into the network, the working mechanism is started - the house is cleaned and filled with freshness.

There is no specific time during which this useful unit should work. The duration of the activation depends on the purpose of the application. You can turn it on for several hours a day, and if an allergic person lives in the apartment, then it is advisable to purchase a silent model for round-the-clock operation of the device.

Antiallergenic purifier models completely eliminate all allergens, bacteria and harmful substances.

Ionizing filters will provide additional freshness by producing ions. There are options with a deep three-stage cleaning. They cleanse, moisturize and scent the air in your home.

According to the attached instructions and depending on the frequency of use, the filters need to be changed over time. Only the thermodynamic filter does not require replacement.

Today, manufacturers can provide a huge variety of air purifiers: from demanding installation knowledge - supply types to simple portable models. Some variants are equipped with additional functions.

• Coal and catalytic air cleaners are necessary when the ventilation system is weak. They will eliminate food odors not only from the kitchen and bathroom, but also from neighbors along the riser.
• If there is dry air in the apartment, models with an additional humidification function are recommended.
• The water purifier combines cleaning with humidification and cooling function.
• Ultrasonic is endowed with the ability to ionize the cleaned space.
• The purifier-disinfectant is a model with an ultraviolet lamp.
• Modern models with mobile applications ensure uninterrupted and efficient operation according to the specified parameters, which are displayed on an electronic scoreboard.

Most models, however, assume location on the floor or on a low shelf.

But the main difference between air cleaners lies in the cleaning mechanism and types of filter elements.

Devices of this type are devices with an electrostatic filter that cannot be replaced. Purification occurs due to the electrical charge formed when the metal plates are turned on, which attract contaminants to themselves.

Air passes between the plates, and dust is attracted and deposited on them. These dust collectors can be washed frequently enough to remove accumulated dirt.

The advantages of electrostatic cleaners include:

• no additional costs for the purchase of replacement filters;
• high speed of air cleaning;
• low energy consumption;
• perfectly cleanse of tobacco smoke and odor;
• low noise level.

Disadvantages:

• Ozone concentration. In small quantities, ozone has an invigorating fresh smell, reminiscent of the air after a thunderstorm. Compared to other types of cleaning devices, when an electric charge is formed (which contributes to the magnetization of the plates), ozone is generated in a larger amount. And although it does not exceed the permissible standards according to GOST (after 8-10 minutes its concentration decreases by 2 times), in some especially sensitive people it can cause a deterioration in well-being. You may feel tired, headache, shortness of breath. The device is not recommended for asthmatics.
• The degree of air purification is slightly lower and amounts to 85-90%, while for models with replaceable filters it is 95-100%. This is due to the design features of the plates.

This type of model is set up for multi-stage cleaning and is effective in eliminating even small spores of mold and mildew, not to mention dust and bacteria.

The air purifier consists of a UV lamp, a catalyst, a dust filter and a fan. Some options can be equipped with additional elements: magnetic plates, carbon filter or ion generator. The essence of cleaning is that the photocatalyst and ultraviolet radiation promotes the decomposition of negative impurities to neutral harmless substances.

Then the air enters directly into the chamber, where, with the interaction of ultraviolet radiation and the catalyst, the purification and transformation of impurities is carried out. Thanks to this cleaning system, a minimum of sediment remains in the device and does not require frequent filter changes.

A photocatalytic air purifier can eliminate:

• persistent ingrained smell of cigarette smoke;
• exhaust gases entering the premises from the street;
• carbon monoxide generated when lighting a stove or fireplace;
• smells of building materials;
• toxic odors of household chemicals;
• dust with harmful microbes and viruses;
• allergens of any kind.

Cleansing by the method of photocatalysis is rightfully considered one of the best and most effective. Its advantages:

• does not require large expenditures of electricity;
• easy to clean - cleaning with a vacuum cleaner once every 6 months;
• absolutely safe and environmentally friendly.

The disadvantages include excessive air purification, since the device does not distinguish between neutral and harmful impurities and passes everything through the catalyst.

That's why do not overuse cleaning rooms where children live... More suitable for allergy sufferers and the elderly.

Ionization is the process of creating air ions in air masses. There is a lot of information about the benefits of air enrichment due to ionization, but there is no exact scientific evidence.

There are 2 types of purifiers with a built-in air ionizer.

• Unipolar. Produce negative air ions and release ozone. When choosing this type, you should check that there is a safety certificate confirming the ionization test. The number of generated air ions in household appliances should not exceed 50 thousand. If this threshold is exceeded, the device must have a medical certificate.

• Bipolar. Produce positive and negative air ions, which reduce ozone production and eliminate the generation of electrostatic fields.

Depending on the model, they may contain a fan, UV lamp or humidifier.

According to the manufacturers of ionic purifiers, air enriched with air ions has many advantages:

• elimination of dust, allergens and unpleasant odors;
• an increase in gas exchange in the human lungs;
• activation of the production of red blood cells;
• raising immunity and improving well-being;
• normalization of the emotional background, elimination of depression;
• accelerating the metabolism of body cells;
• increasing the level of attention and performance;
• improving the quality of sleep.

The peculiarities of the impact of air ions in a residential building depend on the health status of the residents. In some cases, it also has negative aspects, so when buying such an air purifier, you should know that ionization:

• contraindicated in cancer due to an increase in metabolic rate;
• provokes the rapid spread of a viral infection (if someone in the family has ARVI, the likelihood of infection of others while the device is running increases);
• due to the additional load on the respiratory system, it worsens the condition with bronchial asthma;
• it is forbidden to use for diseases accompanied by a rise in temperature;
• not recommended for children under 3 years old;
• can negatively affect the well-being of people prone to headaches and possible cerebrovascular accidents (with oversaturation with air ions, the risk of stroke increases).

When carrying out ionization, the following rules must be observed:

• the device must work for a limited time according to the attached instructions;
• carry out the procedure in rooms free from people;
• periodically ventilate the room so that the concentration of air ions and ozone does not exceed the permissible limits;
• it is advisable to combine a cleaner-ionizer with a cleaner-disinfectant.

The best option for high and high-quality cleaning is filtering air cleaners (in everyday life, the term HEPA filter is more commonly used). The built-in HEPA module (translated from English as "High Efficiency Particulate Arrestance" - highly efficient particle retention) looks like a compact accordionwhere the fibers of a special filtering material are placed with minimal gaps.

This type of air purifier is ideal for people with a tendency to allergic manifestations.

The device is easy to care for. It is enough to remove dust accumulations from it once a month using a vacuum cleaner, and the filter element itself must be replaced after 1.5-2 years (depending on the degree of pollution).

Models of this type have great dust dispersal power. The principle of operation is that when the air cleaner is turned on, the speed of movement of air masses increases sharply, and the dust is sent to a special dust collector of the device and settles on its walls.

The main advantage is the speed of room cleaning and the elimination of unwanted odors. But it is worth considering that small particles are not removed, and also remain in the air. It is preferable to use such a device in offices and work areas than in residential areas.

Such devices are climatic complexes that thoroughly clean and humidify. They are characterized by the presence of different filter elements and the presence of a system that humidifies the air. During the operation of the complex, harmful substances are removed from the air, disinfection, ionization and humidification occur.

The devices are very efficient and durable. Cons can be considered:

• large sizes - it is required to allocate a separate area of ​​the room, and difficulties may also arise when transferring from one room to another;
• high cost and maintenance - the expenditure costs for replacing several types of filters are very significant.

Air washers are combined devices that combine air purification and humidification. This is the best option for many consumers, as it reduces the cost of purchasing consumables.

Dry and dirty air is drawn into the device by the fan. Dust adheres to the plates and enters the area where the rotor blade mechanism operates. There, dust particles are mixed with water, they are cleaned from harmful impurities and their further settling in the sump.

Some models have an ultraviolet lamp and a photocatalyst, which can be turned on in manual mode only when needed (they are not automatically started).

The work of such sinks is similar to combined air cleaners. The sink performs deep cleaning - it removes bacteria, viruses, odors from the air and humidifies the air.

Most of the well-known brands are engaged in the production of air cleaners. Linear series are wide enough that any category of consumers can make a purchase. The best brands are as follows.

• Panasonic. Air purifiers are distinguished by their quality, rich assortment and rather high price. The models of this manufacturer are approved by the Association of Pediatric Allergists and Immunologists of Russia. A very large range of combined complexes.

• Philips. The models are presented in different modifications and price ranges.Especially popular are options designed specifically for use in bedrooms. Quiet operation and dim indicator allow you to sleep soundly and soundly. The air quality monitoring system will notify you of the need to replace the filter.

• Venta. The company was the first creator of air washers and still specializes in their production and improvement. Modern models are equipped with different operating modes. Can be configured for minimum power consumption and quiet operation when turned on at night.

• Redmond. A variety of air cleaners with different characteristics at affordable prices. There are both simple options and models with remote control through the special Ready For Sky mobile application.

• Polaris. Manufacturers focus on simplicity and ease of use. There are options with different modes of cleaning intensity, with one or more filters. Some models have built-in ionizers and fragrances.

• Xiaomi. Air purifiers of this brand are in great demand. Choose from portable options or powerful purifiers with the latest systems and high-performance filter media to clean up to 60 sq. m. The latest models with the MiHome mobile application will allow you to monitor the change in air, adjust the operating mode to the required area and are able to automatically turn on and off at a specified time.

• Electrolux. Compact devices are characterized by reliability and an optimal set of easy-to-use functions. A wider range of products includes air washers with an ionization system.

• "Ecology Super-Plus Bio". Inexpensive models of the middle class of a domestic manufacturer. Compact and very easy to operate, designed for air purification and ionization. They do a good job at killing tobacco smoke. Not recommended for long-term operation, as they emit ozone.

Choosing an air purifier for your home depends on the main purpose of the application.

• If getting rid of unpleasant odors in the apartment (mostly tobacco smoke) is at the forefront, then you should pay attention to models with photocatalytic or carbon filters.
• For allergy sufferers, choosing a purifier with a HEPA filter is a good option. It aims to eliminate pet hair, fine dust particles and other allergens.
• Various ionizers will be of great help in cleaning dust and bacteria, fill the house with freshness, but are absolutely contraindicated for asthmatics and cancer patients.

When choosing, you should pay attention to the presence of such convenient functions as the image on the sensor of air quality indicators, notification of the need to activate the system and the time to replace the filter.

A very important characteristic is the noise level of the device. For round-the-clock use, it is better to choose silent models. For intermittent switching during the daytime, options that produce noise in the range of 10 to 72 decibels may be suitable.

All types of air cleaners must have instructions for use, where the operational requirements of the purchased model are described in detail.

The highlights are the same for all fixtures:

• it is forbidden to install in places exposed to direct sunlight and an air conditioner;
• the distance from the TV or radio must be at least 1 m;
• it is forbidden to place metal objects and magnets on the air cleaner;
• for better cleaning of dust, it is better to place it closer to the floor;
• do not put fingers or steel objects close to the air inlet and outlet openings (and even more so do not insert into them), as this may cause injury or electric shock;
• place the device only on a flat surface to prevent it from tipping over;
• replace filters only in strict accordance with the attached instructions;
• carry out wet cleaning with water or with the addition of a small amount of dishwashing detergent;
• in the event of malfunctions during the warranty period, contact the store or service center at the place of purchase directly.

Air purifiers operate more efficiently with closed doors and windows. But this does not negate the periodic ventilation of the home. For a sound sleep, it is recommended to ventilate the room for 20-30 minutes, then close the windows and turn on the cleaner for about 30 minutes. In models with a mobile application, this function is easy to program and go to bed.

Some models have a scent function. It is advisable to add fir, eucalyptus, tea tree, sage oils to a special compartment for the prevention of viral and colds, especially during seasonal exacerbations.

Almost all reviews on the use of air purifiers are positive.

• Owners of photocatalytic and filtering devices report a significant reduction in allergy manifestations and relief of breathing.
• Those who have experienced the operation of an electrostatic air purifier in their apartments are pleased with the simplicity of its operation and the absence of additional costs for replacing filters.
• Families with children believe that air cleaning is more economical, and in terms of functions it is not inferior to devices with deep filtration.

Reviews of ionic models are contradictory. There are also enthusiastic responses indicating an increase in immunity and a decrease in diseases, there are also a number of those who did not feel positive changes, except for a decrease in the level of dust.

From cutting edge models great reviews of Xiaomi air purifiers - they have a lot of additional and useful functions and are in no way inferior to the promoted brands of Panasonic, Philips, and their price is much lower.

In most cases, an air purifier can become the most reliable and indispensable attribute of maintaining and preserving fresh air. The main thing is to make your choice and comply with all conditions for the use and care of the device.

An overview of popular air purifiers in the video below.