HVAC Air Filtration Systems and Air Purifiers
The average American spends 90 percent of their time inside, making indoor air quality a vital topic of discussion. HVAC air filtration systems and air purifiers silently protect your family’s respiratory health by removing contaminants and pollutants from the air, leaving a cleaner, safer indoor environment.
It’s time to demystify the unsung heroes of indoor air quality by exploring the different types of air filtration systems and purifiers, as well as how to select the best air purifier for your HVAC system. If you need personalized advice when choosing and installing indoor air quality solutions in your Portland-area home, please contact First Call Heating & Cooling at 503-231-3311.
Types of Air Filtration Systems and Air Purifiers
Air filtration systems and purifiers come in many forms, each created to eliminate specific pollutants. Here are some top contenders:
- HEPA filters: High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are among the best options for trapping airborne particles. They remove 99.97 percent of particles down to 0.3 microns, including common household pollutants like dust, pollen, and pet dander. HEPA filters don’t generate byproducts, making them perfect for people with respiratory conditions or allergies. Still, you should consult a heating and cooling professional before installing one because you may need to boost your HVAC fan speed to accommodate this filtration upgrade.
- Activated carbon filters: These filtration systems contain a special form of porous carbon with a large surface area for absorbing gaseous pollutants. Activated carbon filters effortlessly trap volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and unpleasant odors for enhanced air purification.
- Ozone generators: This type of air purifier neutralizes stubborn odors and kills bacteria and viruses. Ozone generators work by producing ozone, a highly reactive molecule that neutralizes odors and microorganisms. However, given that ozone is a lung irritant, these purifiers should be used with caution and are generally not recommended in homes with sensitive individuals.
- Ionizers: Also known as ionic air purifiers, ionizers generate electrically charged negative ions that bind to airborne particles in the room. These particles become too heavy to remain airborne, so they fall to the floor or other surfaces, where you can wipe, sweep, or vacuum them up.
- UV purifiers: Ultraviolet germicidal lights use UV energy to render airborne microorganisms unable to replicate. These purifiers are a valuable addition to your home’s air purification system, especially during cold and flu season.
- Air Scrubber Advanced: This top air purifier uses a combination of UV light and a proprietary catalytic process to effectively remove airborne and surface contaminants, thereby addressing areas that traditional filtration systems leave untouched. Capable of eliminating dust, mold, odors, and other harmful contaminants, the Air Scrubber Advanced is ideal for improving your home’s overall air quality.
How to Choose the Right Air Filtration System or Air Purifier for Your Home
Choosing the ideal air filter or purifier requires you to consider these factors:
- Size of your home: Your property’s square footage affects the type and number of air purifiers you need. A larger home may necessitate a more powerful unit or multiple devices to effectively clean the air in different rooms.
- Type of pollutants: Different air filtration systems and purifiers excel at eliminating specific pollutants. For example, if you struggle with pet dander, a HEPA filter might be the best choice. If you want to neutralize odors or gaseous pollutants, an activated carbon filter would be an excellent addition. And for protection against microorganisms, consider a UV purifier.
- Budget considerations: Air filtration systems vary greatly in price, so it’s important to balance cost and efficiency. Consider your budget and evaluate which air purifier offers the best bang for your buck. Also, remember to factor in the cost of replacement filters and the unit’s energy consumption.
- Maintenance requirements: It’s easy to overlook maintenance when choosing an air purifier, but this is a crucial consideration. Some air purifiers need frequent filter or light bulb replacements, while others have washable or reusable parts. Look at the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and factor in the time and cost involved.
Request Indoor Air Quality Services in Portland, OR
To recap, HVAC air filtration systems and air purifiers are critical for improving indoor air quality. By understanding the different options available and considering your specific needs, you can select the top air purifier and breathe easier in your home.
First Call Heating & Cooling delivers the best air filtration products and top-notch service to our customers in the Portland area. We have served the community since 1939 and are here to assist with all your indoor air quality needs. Let First Call Heating & Cooling be your only call for indoor air quality services. Contact us today at 503-231-3311 for more information about the Air Scrubber Advanced and other filtration systems we offer.