Air Purifier Home Blog

NYC Couple Sues Neighbor Over Cigarette Smoke

2008-06-25T12:57:00.000-07:00

According to a recent article in the New York Times, a New York City couple recently sued a neighbor over her noxious cigarette smoke fumes. The plaintiffs - Jonathan Selbin and his wife Jenny - also claimed that the fumes wafting into their apartment was jeopardizing the health of their young son.

In the lawsuit, Mr. Selbin stated that Galila Huff's smoking made their hallway smell like a casino, and in turn, the Ms. Huff accused Selbin of overreacting. However, due to the publicity of the lawsuit, the company Electrolux offered to donate and install an air filtration system that would supposedly take care of the smoke problem. As a result, the two parties settled out of court, and the issue was settled after the defendant agreed to utilize the air filtration system.

With that in mind, if you smoke or live with a smoker, you must know how smoke odors are pervasive and can be extremely hard to eliminate due to the chemical nature of smoke molecules. In removing smoke odors from the home, one of the most effective (and obvious) methods is to eliminate indoor smoking altogether. Secondly, using an air purifier specifically designed for smoke odors is also one of the best ways to breathe in cleaner, fresher air.

An air purifier with activated carbon is specifically well-suited for this purpose, as the carbon filter is treated with oxygen and works like a sponge. This material has a large surface area with a great amount of microporosity and is excellent at trapping gases and odors that normally pass through a HEPA filter.

One of the best smoke air purifiers on the market is clearly the Airpura T600. Specially designed to deal with cigarette smoke, the T600 air purifier features a special TarBarrier pre-filter
combined with a deep carbon bed to adsorb the 4000 chemicals and gases found in tobacco smoke. The Airpura T600 also recycles the air every 30 minutes and is also effective for larger areas up to 2000 square feet. Best of all, this powerful smoke air purifier comes with a five year warranty on parts and ten year warranty on labor.

New Study Shows How Carbon Can Decrease Greenhouse Gases

2008-05-28T07:22:00.000-07:00

Last week, a team of researchers at the Soft Materials Laboratory in Wyoming found that low-cost activated carbons were responsible for removing up to 90 percent of toxic carbon dioxide gas from the smokestacks of electrical power plants.

Such plants burned significant amounts of coal and other fossil fuels (major sources of greenhouse gases) which prompted the need for new and inexpensive methods to remove carbon dioxide gases from smokestacks. The study found that a new carbon dioxide capture process called a "Carbon Filter Process" was able to dramatically decrease carbon dioxide via inexpensive filters filled with porous carbonaceous sorbent that worked well at low pressures. Therefore, their data suggested that these simple carbon filters worked better than existing technologies at just a fraction of the cost.

These studies have corroborated the findings that many air purifier manufacturers have claimed for years; that activated carbon is one of the most effective materials known today for treating airborne gases, chemicals, and odors. Activated carbon, also known as activated charcoal or activated coal, is processed to make it extremely porous with a large surface area for chemical reactions. Unlike HEPA filters which are more effective at filtering out the tiniest of particulates, activated carbon filters actually help change chemicals and gases from a gaseous phase to a solid phase, and they have had a long history of commercial use in conjunction with other filtration technologies.

One air purifier manufacturer who utilizes activated carbon in all of their models is AllerAir. All of their models, including the AllerAir AirTube, use large, deeper bed carbon filters that adsorb more airborne pollutants than competing brands. Their air purifiers also combine activated carbon with HEPA filters to offer the most comprehensive air purification available to treat airborne particles, gases, chemicals, and odors. As such, AllerAir air purifiers are especially suited for allergy sufferers, asthma prevention, Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), tobacco smoke, pet odors, and general home or office air purification.

How to Conquer Spring Allergies

2008-05-19T07:32:00.000-07:00

For over 35 people in the United States, spring is often synonymous with allergies. Often called "allergic rhinitis," symptoms are usually triggered by allergens such as pollen and dust which initiate an allergic response. When inhaled by allergy sufferers, these allergens combine with an allergic antibody called immunoglobulin (IgE) which is present at very levels in the body. However, in allergy sufferers, IgE is found in large quantities, and according to Gillian Shepherd, MD, chair of the Education Sub-Committee of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, "When the allergen and the IgE combine in the lining of the nose or eyes, the result is the release of chemicals, including histamine. These chemicals cause the allergic symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, nasal congestion or headaches as the body tries to fight off the foreign allergen."

In order to counter these allergy symptoms, both over-the-counter and prescription medications are readily available such as antihistamines, decongestants, combination medicines, corticosteroids, and others. These serve to help ease annoying symptoms such as congestion and runny nose. Moreover, allergy shots can be administered in order to increase one's ability to tolerate allergens. However, to further allergy-proof your home, you can also follow these easy steps:

Perform a thorough spring cleaning. This involves cleaning and/or dusting windows, air conditioning vents, and bookshelves. In the winter, dust and mold can collect on these surfaces and provoke symptoms.

Avoid pollen. Dr. Shepherd states the following: "On windy days, or for days after high winds, pollen counts are high because the pollen has been spread throughout the air." Therefore, stay indoors when pollen counts are high, and keep in mind that peak pollen times are usually from 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. It's also a good idea to shut the windows in your house during these times, and avoid using fans or windows that may draw pollen inside.

Wash bedding weekly in hot water. Also dry your laundry indoors, as sheets hanging on an outside line are an easy target for pollen.

Shower in the evening. Shower and wash your hair before going to bed because pollen can collect on your head and scalp.

Don't let pets near furniture or your bedroom. Pollen can cling to your dog after being outside, and cat hair has been known to be one of the most common allergens due to the cat glycoprotein Fel d 1, which is secreted through a cat's sebaceous glands.

Wear a filter mask. This is especially useful when mowing the law or performing any type of gardening work.

Invest in an air purifier with a quality HEPA filter. Air purifiers can be instrumental in eliminate common springtime allergens from your home. However, keep in mind that for maximum allergy relief, only an air purifier with HEPA filtration will do. HEPA filters have the ability to filter out 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns such as dust and pollen. In fact, they are so effective, they are often utilized by hospitals and government buildings. Some good air purifier choices for allergy sufferers would be the Austin AllergyMachine and the Airpura H600.

How to Calculate CADR for an Air Purifier

2008-05-02T11:41:00.000-07:00

Air purifiers are designed to make living spaces more comfortable and healthy because they reduce the amount of airborne particles that can contribute to poor indoor air quality. In addition, air purifiers are excellent at trapping common allergens such as dust and pollen, therefore making them invaluable to those who suffer from asthma, allergies, or other respiratory disorders.

In order to standardize air purifier specifications and to provide consumers with a method of comparing air cleaners, the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM), the independent industry organization that represents the manufacturers of home appliances, has developed a system for rating air purifiers. Although air purifier manufacturers are not required to submit their units for testing, many do, and every quarter, the AHAM publishes its directory of Certified Room Air Cleaners to the public.

An air purifier with the AHAM seal (usually found on the box of the unit's box) will list three CADR numbers: one for pollen, one for dust, and one for tobacco smoke (some very highly rated models include the Blueair 601 air purifier and the Airgle 750). The CADR indicates the volume of filtered air delivered by the air purifier (measured in cubic feet per minute), and the higher the CADR numbers, the faster and more efficiently the unit filters the air. To determine the CADR appropriate for your space, simple multiply the room's square footage by 0.75. For example, if you are trying to clean the air in a room that measures 15 feet by 15 feet, your calculations would look like this:

CADR = Square Footage x 0.75

15'x 15'= 225 square feet

225 x 0.75 = 168.75

CADR Required = 168.75

Therefore, for a 225 square foot room, you would need an air purifier with at least CADR. In addition, if your room has ceilings higher than 8 feet, move up to the next level CADR for a larger room. Moreover, if you have an open floor plan, purchase two small units because they can be moved to different areas in the room and will clean the air more efficiently than one unit alone.

Air Purifier Q & A Part II

2008-04-21T13:09:00.000-07:00

When it comes to maintaining an allergen-free home, using an air purifier is absolutely essential. Effective at eliminating pollutants such as dust, animal dander, odors, gasses, and chemicals, an air purifier is one of the first steps you should take in ensuring a healthy home. However, consumers often have questions when it comes to what type of air purifier they should purchase, as well as how to operate and maintain one. To address these concerns, here are a few frequently asked air purifier questions:

Question: Where should an air purifier be placed?
Answer: Ideally, an air purifier should be placed either in a room where you spend the most time or in highly-polluted area. Moreover, an air purifier should be located near a vent or fan to help with air circulation. Dens and living rooms are a great place to start, as are bedrooms, seeing as we spend up to 8 hours a day sleeping. Furthermore, if you have pets, placing the air purifier near a kennel, crate, or play area in order to reduce pet dander is a good idea.

In terms of positioning, for smaller rooms, place the unit at least 4 inches away from the wall or corner, but in larger areas, you will get the most benefit out of your air purifier if it is positioned in the middle of the room. Nonetheless, regardless of where you place your air purifier, always remember to ensure its intake or exhaust vents aren't obstructed by household objects and furniture.

Question: How often should HEPA filters be replaced?
Answer: The life of a HEPA filter will depend upon your air purifier manufacturer's instructions and the pollutant levels in your home. For heavily polluted areas, expect to replace the HEPA filter every few months. However, with normal use, a HEPA filter should last about a year, and if frequent HEPA replacement is inconvenient, look for HEPA filter with an extra-large surface area, such as those utilized by Airpura. Many Airpura models such as the R600 have HEPA filters that can last as long as 5 years.

Question: How often should pre-filters be cleaned?
Answer: Again, the length of time in between filter maintenance will greatly depend on manufacturer's directions and the amount of pollutants in your home. If your air purifier utilizes a washable pre-filter, washing the pre-filter once a month will maximize your unit's cleaning efficiency.

Addressing Air Quality Issues in Commercial Settings

2008-04-02T14:57:00.001-07:00

Because humans take over 20,000 breaths a day on average and air is something we can't go without for more than a few minutes, the importance of breathing in fresh, clean air can't be stressed enough. Indoor air quality is important to human health because individuals spend a large fraction of their time indoors at their residences, schools, and workplaces, and breathing in polluted air can result in health problems such as respiratory disorders and even cancer.

IAQ in the Commercial Setting
Those working in industrial settings are particularly at risk due to the high levels of pollution that exist in such areas. In addition, there are numerous sources of airborne toxic pollutants in these indoor environments, and outdoor air ventilation often provides the only primary means to dilute pollutant concentrations.

Dust Masks: Are They Enough?
Many industrial workers make use of filter masks which are aimed to providing protection to the wearer from harmful airborne substances, and these usually cover only the mouth and nose. They work by limiting the course of air so that it flows through a filter that removes harmful particulates, and these types of masks range from single-use, disposable types to reusable models with replaceable cartridges. Because of their simple design, these masks are commonly used for filtering out tiny solid or even liquid particles through dense, fine mesh. Some types of dust masks even utilize mesh that is coated with substances to enhance filtration.

While these masks may be suitable less demanding applications, they are only designed to trap large particles such as sawdust, and generally will not protect lungs from fine particles such as smoke, gases, chemicals, or VOC's. As such, in industrial or commercial situations where there are high levels of indoor air pollution, one of the most effective methods of combating such contamination is through the use of a high-quality, commercial-grade air purifier.

Why Commercial-Grade Air Purifiers?
Commercial air purifiers are essential for any work environment because they are often capable of eliminating the most difficult to remove pollutants, including smoke and toxic chemicals. Some of the best commercial air purifiers utilize a combination of filtration methods, but HEPA filters are usually the most common and effective.

With that in mind, one of the advanced HEPA commercial air purifiers is the IQAir VOC GCX ($1895.00). Engineered to provide maximum control of gaseous chemicals and working just like a professional gas mask, this air purifier relies on an interchangeable cartridge design for optimized gaseous pollutant control. The HEPA filter first eliminates micro- and nano-sized particles such as allergens, bacteria, smoke, and viruses; then the four specialized GCX cartridges filters down the molecular level; and finally, the micro-charged post filter removes any particles left over from the filtration process, therefore ensuring clean, fresh air.

How to Alleviate Hay Fever Symptoms

2008-03-28T14:25:00.001-07:00

Springtime conjures up memories of warmer weather, clear skies, and blooming flowers, but the season can be miserable for those who suffer from seasonal allergies. Pollen is one of the most common and prevalent allergens, and in the spring, the amount of pollen floating in the air can be up to four times greater than in any other season. According to Gillian Shepherd, M.D., an allergy specialist, "On windy days or for days after high winds, pollen counts are high because the pollen has been spread through the air. After it rains, counts drop as the rain washes the pollen away."
Therefore, allergy sufferers are all too familiar with the perils of high pollen count, and high pollen counts can affect numerous types of allergies, from conjunctivitis to skin reactions such as dermatitis. However, the most common spring allergy is allergic rhinitis.

Commonly called hay fever, seasonal allergic rhinitis affects 35 million people in the U.S. and is commonly triggered by allergens such as pollens and molds. When allergic rhinitis sufferers inhale these allergens, they are combined with an allergic antibody called immunoglobulin (IgE), and in those who have allergies, IgE is found at especially high concentrations.

To alleviate hay fever symptoms, your doctor may prescribe oral medication, nasal sprays, or eye drops, but perhaps one of the best ways at combating hay fever is to avoid substances such as pollen altogether. Here are some preventative steps you can take to keep pollen and dust out of your home:

Turn on Your Air Conditioner
Did you know that your air conditioner can actually help control allergens? Air conditioners allow windows and doors to stay closed, which keep some pollen and mold spores outside. Moreover, this keeps indoor humidity levels down, and the less moisture there is in the air, the less chance of mold growth.

Use Furnace Filters
Even though staying indoors is one way to avoid high levels of pollen, this may not be enough. Even if the windows or doors within a room remain closed, pollen can still seep n. Quality allergy furnace filters can solve this problem, and the ones from AllergyZone are great for this purpose. Be sure to change the filter regularly during hay fever season.

Wear Dust Masks
When performing housework, many common dusting and vacuum devices can actually shuffle as much dust and pollen back into the air as they take out. Therefore, a dust mask can prevent you from breathing in debris while cleaning. Also consider purchasing a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter if this is truly a concern.

Purify the Air
Air purifiers are great for those suffering from respiratory disorders such as hay fever. When choosing an air purifier, select a unit with HEPA filters and all-metal construction. True HEPA filters have the ability to remove up to 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger, and all-metal or steel gaskets prevent off-gassing of chemicals into the air.

Austin Air has also designed an air purifier specially designed for allergy sufferers. With the ability to clean large areas up to 1500 square and utilizing both medical-grade, True HEPA and HEGA filters, this air purifier is perfect for keeping hay fever symptoms at bay.

Air Purifier Q & A

2008-03-21T09:48:00.000-07:00

The fact that our indoor air is oftentimes much more polluted than the air outside is generally accepted, and scientific studies have repeatedly shown us that the content of interior air can affect the health of building inhabitants.

The air in an average home contains billions of tiny pollution particles such as dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, viruses, and other airborne irritants. To eliminate these pollutants, using an air purifier can help create a more comfortable and healthy indoor environment, for those with allergies or asthma, air purifiers can provide instant relief of symptoms.

However, with so many different types of air purifiers on the market, many customers are often confused as to which models are most suitable for their individual purification requirements, and questions often arise. To address these concerns, Air Purifier Home will now regularly pick and answer some consumer questions commonly asked in regards to air purifiers every week. Here are this week's questions:

Question: Do I need to leave my air purifier running continuously, or can I just have it on a few hours a day?
Answer: Many people believe that cleaning the air is much like vacuuming or dusting in that it is a chore that only needs to be performed periodically. Unfortunately, the air within an indoor space is in a state of constant change, with particles, microorganisms, and gases continuously being added back into an area. Therefore, the air quality in a room is anything buy static. With that in mind, if you are looking to breathe cleaner air, leaving the purifier on for at least 12 hours a day will be more beneficial and effective, as air will be constantly filtered. If you are concerned about energy usage, keep in mind that most air purifiers cost just pennies a day to operate.

Question: Does fan speed contribute to an air purifier's effectiveness?
Answer: Generally speaking, the higher the fan speed, the more air is drawn into the air purifier. This results in more clean air being distributed per hour back into a particular space. For those suffering from respiratory disorders such as asthma or allergies, the highest amount of clean air is best.

Question: There's a lot of controversy surrounding ozone air purifiers lately. Are these safe?
Answer: Ozone is only dangerous in especially high concentrations - much higher than what an ozone air purifier is capable of producing. In moderate concentrations, ozone is harmless, useful, and very effective at eliminating airborne contaminants. However, those with sensitive lungs or respiratory problems may not want to utilize ozone in their home, as it has been known to exacerbate symptoms in those people. Instead, HEPA air purifiers are better choices.

Air Purifier Reviews: NQ Air Purifiers - Innovative Solutions for Pure, Safe Air

2008-03-11T14:55:00.000-07:00

Although studies have repeatedly shown us how outdoor air pollution can be a major health problem, air pollution can also exist in areas where you least expect it and even in the place you thought was the safest: your home. Even seemingly ordinary activities such as cleaning, cooking, heating, and cooling can release and spread indoor pollutants, and because we often spend up to 90 percent of our time indoors, breathing in polluted air can have a severe impact on our health. Certain people, particularly infants, young children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses are especially at risk.

Biological pollutants, or those that are living, are especially harmful, as they are microscopic, travel through the air, and can stem from sources commonly found in homes, such as animal dander; dust mites and roach parts; pollen; and infectious agents such as viruses or bacteria. While there is no simple way to address the problem of biological pollutants, independent tests have shown that UV light has an immense effect on these types of contaminants.

UV light is part of the electromagnetic energy generated by the sun and is one of the most effective ways to reduce and control airborne microbiological pathogens because it damages the DNA of such microorganisms and renders them harmless and unable to reproduce. It is for this reason that UV air purifiers are widely used in hospitals, and they also a requirement in most U.S. Government facilities.

NQ Industries has designed a range of high quality air purification systems utilizing a range of recognized technologies such as HEPA and Activated Carbon, but the mainstay of their air purifiers is UVGI light.

NQ air purifiers, such as the Clarifier Standard, use much more concentrated levels of ultraviolet energy than found in natural sunlight, and UVC radiation at 254 nm has an intense germicidal effect. Therefore, within seconds, NQ air purifiers can effectively destroy microorganisms such as viruses, fungi, and bacteria without the use of harmful chemicals or ozone.

In fact, hospitals worldwide utilize NQ air purification systems as a method of controlling infectious diseases and viruses. According to a July 2006 test conducted by the Fleming Clinic in France, the NQ Clarifier Standard, Clarifier Medical, and Clarifier Medical Plus air purifiers were all able to reduce 87% of harmful contaminants in just 24 hours, and researchers involved in the study declared that NQ air purifiers performed very well in "real hospitals and clinics."

As outstanding air purification systems, the NQ Clarifier line of air purifiers offers four comprehensive levels of filtration in addition to an intense UV purification zone. Its compact size, weight, and mobility also make these air purifiers suitable for any type of situation, whether for residential, commercial, medical, industrial, or military applications. The efficacy of these air purifiers have also been proven in real conditions for over 10 years, and they are continued to be used in hospitals, the U.S. Army, U.S. Customs, and even the U.S. Navy. With that in mind, for complete particle and microbiological contaminant abatement, NQ air purifiers truly offer unparalleled protection.

Activated Carbon: The Natural Air Purifier

2008-02-25T13:05:00.001-08:00

If odors, chemicals, or gases are a problem in your home or workplace, using an air purifier with an activated carbon filter can be your best line of defense.

Carbon has been known to man as a highly effective means to purify air and water since antiquity. In fact, the use of carbon dates so far back into history that its exact origin has been difficult to pinpoint. However, historians have found that the ancient Egyptians were using carbon to adsorb odors from wounds and from within the intestinal track. Hindus used it to purify their water supply, and in 17th century London, crude carbon filters were used to remove gases and vapors from sewage systems. Nonetheless, it wasn't until the 20th century that activated carbon filters were beginning to be widely used in military gas masks, and post-war expansion in commercial production of activated carbon lead to its utilization among consumers.

What is Activated Carbon?
Activated carbon, or activated charcoal, includes carbon material that is mostly derived from charcoal. The material is considered "activated" when it undergoes a process which opens up millions of tiny fissures and pores to enhance its adsorption properties, and regardless of the name, it consists of high adsorbent material with an exceptionally high surface area. Due to this high surface area, its micro porosity, and its high degree of surface reactivity, activated carbon is very effective in the adsorption of both organic and inorganic pollutants from airborne and aqueous sources. In fact, only one pound of activated carbon has a surface area equivalent to 125 acres.

How Does Activated Carbon Work?
When chemicals, odors, and gases pass through an air purifier with an activated carbon filter, these pollutants become permanently trapped in the millions of pores that are opened by the activation process. Subsequently, due to the large surface area of the activated carbon, it can usually adsorb up to 60 percent of its own weight in pollutants. As well, high-quality activated carbon filters, depending on the environment in which they are used and the level of contaminants in the air, can last up to five years before the pores become full and before the filter needs to be replaced.

Air Purifiers with Activated Carbon Filters
In activated carbon air purifiers, the carbon media is often combined with minerals such as zeolite, which has the ability to adsorb ions and molecules and act as a sort of chemical and gas sieve. For those suffering from respiratory disorders such as allergies, asthma, or multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS), air purifiers with carbon filters are especially useful because they can clean the air naturally without the use of chemicals or ozone, and without off-gassing other pollutants into the air.

Recommend Activated Carbon Air Purifiers:

Austin Air

Austin Air has been a trusted name in the air purification industry for years, and the basic scientific principle involved in all of their air purifier filters, including those used in the Austin Air Allergy Machine, is rooted in the use of medical-grade HEPA and of course, activated carbon. By forcing contaminated air through these filters, up to 99.97% of contaminants are eliminated, as well as over 3000 different types of toxic gases, odors, and chemicals.

AllerAir

Instead of just using a standard HEPA filter to clean the air, AllerAir makes use of a combination HEPA and activated carbon filter to remove particles and the most harmful of indoor contaminants - chemicals and gases. AllerAir air purifiers, such as the AllerAir 5000 Vocarb, use several pounds of activated carbon to ensure complete removal of indoor contaminants. Moreover, AllerAir also manufacturers a product called the EasyPur Odor Catcher. This compact tub includes the same odor-fighting activated carbon used in AllerAir air purifiers, and can be placed anywhere where odors may be a problem, such as refrigerators, freezers, trash cans, and lockers.

New Australian Study Shows How Viruses Can Be Transmitted Over Great Distances

2008-02-18T13:23:00.000-08:00

We are often taught that we can catch an illness such as the flu or a cold by being an arm's distance away from someone with the illness, but a new study conducted by the Queensland University of Technology in Australian reveals that airborne germs and viruses can actually spread far and wide.

Airborne transmission of an illness occurs when bacteria or viruses travel on dust particles or on respiratory droplets that become aerosolized when people cough, sneeze, exhale, or even laugh. Hanging in the air much like invisible smoke, airborne viruses can actually travel on air currents over considerable distances, and it is not necessary to have direct contact with someone who is infected to become ill. In addition, the amount of exposure necessary varies from disease to disease, and with illnesses such as chickenpox, a child can even catch it from across a classroom or even from another aisle in a supermarket.

Professor Linda Morawska, director of QUT's International Laboratory for Air Quality and Health, states that her new study actually dispels the myth that viruses can only be transmitted from close distances, and her team of scientists has been studying the way airborne droplets carrying viruses are dispersed in the air. As part of their study, the QUT scientists built a machine that measured the distances a droplet travels in the air prior to drying, and Professor Morawska stated the following: "The significant part of our research has found that rather than the droplet falling directly to the ground after leaving the mouth, the liquid component of the droplet dries in the air and the dry residue travels long distances."

This study was actually motivated by the SARS outbreak in Hong Kong in which over 300 people were infected within a few hours, and Professor Morawska also noted, "We wanted to know how this virus was able to travel from building to building in such a short time." In fact, Professor Morawska's team concluded that just one person infected with a disease could very easily spread the disease by simply breathing.

In other words, the QUT team found that airborne viruses were able to travel long distances, and that one of the best ways to avoid airborne infections was to be in a different room for an ill person, with a closed door in between. While covering the mouth or nose when sneezing or coughing decreases the spreading of droplets, this does not eradicate the problem.

For those with children or family members with weak immune systems, eliminating airborne viruses is imperative. With that in mind, one of the most effective methods of removing airborne biological contaminants is through the use of intense UV light.

Essentially, UV light is part of the light spectrum and helps deactivate the DNA of viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens. This destroys their ability to multiply and cause disease, and UV light specifically causes damage to the nucleic acid of microorganisms by forming covalent bonds between adjacent bases in the DNA. The formation of these bonds prevents DNA from replicating, and the in turn, the organism is unable to reproduce. In fact, several government-funded studies have repeatedly shown how UV light can effectively sterilize bacteria and viruses:
- The U.S. Government states that UV light should be used in air handling units in government buildings to improve indoor air quality and to control airborne microbial growth.

- The CDC recommends the simultaneous use of UV light with HEPA filtration to eliminate the transmission of airborne illnesses and diseases.

- The CDC also recommends UV light to be used in homeless shelters to prevent the spread of diseases, particularly tuberculosis.

With that in mind, many air purifier manufacturers are now including UV germicidal lamps in their air purification systems, and one such company is AllerAir. Their revolutionary AllerAir 4000 Exec UV air purifier ($639.98) includes four separate filters, including a True HEPA filter for particulates and a powerful UV germicidal light to eliminate airborne microorganisms. This 10-watt UV lamp successfully destroys illness-causing bacteria, and AllerAir air purifiers are currently widely used in hospitals, daycares, food preparation areas, and any other environment in which microbiological contaminants run rampant.

Air Purifier Reviews: Suround Air Air Purifiers - Advanced, Affordable, and Competitively Priced!

2008-02-15T10:30:00.000-08:00

Surround Air has been in the air purifier business since 1998 and their top priority is to educate the public on the dangers of indoor air pollutants. Surround Air believes that airborne particulates are the most urgent health risk in an indoor environment, as they often become trapped in airways and affect the respiratory system. As well, chemicals and gases also contribute to unhealthy indoor air and can cause a host of health defects such as exacerbated asthma and allergies, hay fever, multiple chemical sensitivity, and over time, even cancer.

As such, Surround Air has created a diverse line of air purifiers and air cleaners for every type of air purification concern. Best of all, unlike many other air purifiers on the market which will set you back hundreds of dollars, Surround Air air purifiers are very affordable and there is model to suit every budget.

In terms of technology, the hallmark of every Surround Air air purifier is the patented ionizer. From the advanced, multi-stage Intelli-Pro air purifier to the XJ-888 smokeless ashtray, Surround Air air cleaners all harness the power of negative ions to clean the air. Research studies have proven that negative ions are safe and effective for cleaning the air because they enhance the efficiency of air filters and attack airborne particles and pollutants wherever they may be floating. In fact, recent studies conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture in poultry houses found that ionizers were able to reduce airborne particulates by up to 99 percent in 60 seconds and salmonella by 95 percent. The following is an overview of Surround Air's currently line of air purifiers:

Surround Air Intelli-Pro Air Purifier ($299)

The Intelli-Pro is Surround Air's most advanced and efficient air purifier. Sensor technology constantly monitors air quality, performance, and filter life, and seven advanced purification stages - pre-filter, dust collection grid, carbon filter, HEPA filter, PCO filter, UV lamp, and ionizer - all work in tandem to eliminate up to 99.97% of airborne pollutants. The Intelli-Pro by Surround Air has also been shown to be up to five times more effective in toxin removal tests when compared to leading air purifiers on the market.

Surround Air Multi-Tech Air Purifiers ($149 - $249)These air purifiers use multiple technologies to remove nearly all types of pollutants and also cost very little to maintain. By using a six step filtration process including HEPA, UV, activated carbon, ionizer, programmable sanitizer, and anti-bacterial pre-filter, the Surround Air Multi-Tech air purifiers effectively remove dust, allergens, mold, and microorganisms. As well, this line of air purifiers has consistently outperformed many top-rated, brand-name air purifiers in independent clinical tests.

Filterless Ionic Air Purifiers ($19.99 - $69)
Surround Air has also designed their own line of compact air purifiers for areas such as bathrooms, small bedrooms, and even cars. As an added bonus, these air purifiers are completely silent and do not require any replacement filters.

The XJ-2100UV ionic and UV air purifier (($69) is nearly 100 percent effective in clinical particle tests and uses electrostatically-charged plates to magnetically trap dust, allergens, bacteria, and much more.

The XJ-800 ($19.99) car air purifier and refresher attaches to your vehicle's cigarette lighter and helps clean the air in your vehicle by using a high negative ion output to reduce airborne pollutants and odors, Six fragrances also allow you to keep your car interior smelling fresh and clean.

The Surround Air XJ-888 smokeless ashtray ($29.99), on the other hand, is great for those with a smoker in the home, as the ionizer within the dome releases air-purifying negative ions that cause smoke particles to magnetically attract to the electrostatically-charged interior.

Air Purifier Reviews: Blueair Air Purifiers - Best in Class

2008-02-07T14:30:00.000-08:00

If you suffer from allergies or asthma, an air purifier can dramatically improve your symptoms and prevent attacks from occurring. However, many air purifiers tend to be large, bulky appliances that can make a lot of noise and disturb your home environment. Fortunately, Blueair is one company who aims to design and manufacture some of the most stylish, effective, and quiet air purifiers on the market today.

Founded in Sweden in 1996, Blueair has quickly earned a reputation in the air purification industry for high performance, design, and technological innovation. The company believes that clean air is a human right, and Blueair offers a wide product range for people who don't want to compromise on health, function, or design.

The hallmark of Blueair's purification technology is the HEPASilent filter. Air purifiers with True HEPA filters must be able to remove at least 99.97% of particulates 0.3 or larger, but they are oftentimes loud. On the other hand, Blueair's HEPASilent filter combines the best in electrostatic and filter technology with its advanced HEPA filter media and encapsulated ion particle charging chamber. These two work in tandem to achieve better results when compared to air purifiers using either mechanical or electrostatic technology alone.

How the HEPASilent System Works:
1. Air is drawn into the Blueair air purifier via an ultra-quiet fan.
2. Airborne contaminants pass through an ion chamber and are electrically charged, causing them to adhere to the air purifier's exclusive polypropylene filters.
3. The charged particles are then removed through a three stage filtration process, with stage 1 capturing large particles such as pollen and dust, and stages 2 and 3 filtering out the smallest contaminants such as smoke and chemicals.

Together, the ion chamber and three-step filtration process combine to create an air purification system that delivers maximum airflow with minimum noise - Blueair's patented HEPASilent technology.

Why Buy a Blueair Air Purifier?
1. Quiet Operation: Because air passes easily through a Blueair air purifier's filter media, the fan doesn't work as hard or as loud.
2. Award-Winning Design: Blueair air purifiers, such as the Blueair 201 or 402, sport sleek and contemporary looks, and the company has even been distinguished with one of the most prestigious design awards in Scandinavia - the Excellent Swedish Design Award. In addition, the revolutionary Blueair Airpod has been lauded in countless magazines such as Good Housekeeping and Modern Bride for its design concept, performance, and compact size.
3. Emits No Ozone: Blueair air purifiers use a low electrical current to minimize ozone production and a sealed steel housing chamber to keep ozone out of the air you breathe.
4. Energy Efficient: Blueair was one of the first air purifier manufacturers to earn an ENERGY STAR designation.
5. High CADR Rating: CADR is a rating developed by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) to help consumers determine the effectiveness of air purifiers. CADR takes into account the size of the particle removed, the percentage of particles removed, and the volume of air moving through the system. Blueair air purifiers, especially the Blueair 601, have consistently received some of the highest CADR scores when compared to other air purifiers in its class.

Blueair Airpod ($99.95) - Stylish, compact, and suitable for personal spaces

Blueair 201 Air Purifier ($299.95): Quiet, efficient, and great for rooms up to 200 square feet
Blueair 250E Air Purifier ($349.95): Includes digital display, remote-controlled operation, and has a coverage area of 200 square feet

Blueair 402 Air Purifier ($399.95): Ultra-low power consumption and suitable for areas up to 365 square feet

Blueair 501 Air Purifier ($499.95): European design and suitable for areas up to 580 square feet

Blueair 601 Air Purifier ($599.95): For areas up to 680 square feet - Blueair's most efficient air purifier!

Air Purifier Reviews: IQAir Air Purifiers - 40 Years of Quality

2008-02-04T11:53:00.000-08:00

In these modern times, our indoor air is becoming more polluted than ever. Considering the fact that we spend up to 90 percent of our time indoors, toxic substances introduced to our indoor environment often go unseen and pose the single greatest threat to our health and well-being.

Studies have also shown that clean air and the body's immune system are inextricably linked. Breathing fresh, clean air not only ensures good respiratory health, it also affords your immune system the time it needs to rest and rejuvenate. In other words, just as your body needs sleep, your immune system also needs to rest in order to function properly.

Forty Years in the Air Purification Business
For over 40 years, IQAir has been at the forefront of indoor air purification, and the company was founded by two German brothers in the early 1960s. Today, IQAir has become an international leader in the field of air purification and they are able to consistently design and manufacture air purification solutions that are both highly effective and affordable.

IQAir's innovative strength stems from their cutting-edge research and development team, and this has led to products which set new standards in quality, performance, and style.

Advanced Air Purification Technologies
Whether you need an air purifier for your home, office, or clean room, IQAir multistage air purifiers do the best job of any air purifier on the market. IQAir's Swiss precision and an uncompromising commitment to being to the best have enabled them to set a bar that other air purifier manufacturers have yet to meet. In fact, IQAir is also proud to be the educational partner of the American Lung Association, and together, they work hard on campaigns aimed at educating the public about effective measures to improve indoor air quality.

Groundbreaking in terms of their technical design and style, IQAir HEPA air purifiers clean the air that passes through the filter with over 99.99% efficiency, and compared to many competing air cleaners which allow airflow leakage, IQAir's advanced design ensures that all of the airflow within an enclosed space is purified.

All IQAir air purifiers, including the HealthPro Compact and HealthPro Plus, feature HyperHEPA filtration technology to ensure superior airborne particle abatement. IQAir became the first and only room air purifier to receive a H12/13 certification for its HyperHEPA filters - a feat previously only achieved by multi-million dollar clean room filtration systems. In fact, in 2003, the world saw the spread of SARs, and the Hong Kong Hospital Authority chose IQAir air purifiers as the best cleaning solution for hospital rooms with suspected SARS patients.

The IQAir air purifiers utilize a "fan-in-center" design that places the fan motor in between sound attenuating filters. This housing drastically reduces sound transmission, and rubber suspension pads isolate motor vibration from the air purifier's housing. In turn, this results in an air purifier that's tough enough for a hospital but quiet enough for a bedroom. As well as removing particulates such as dust and dander, select IQAir air purifiers such as the IQAir VOC GC air purifier and IQAir MultiGas GC are highly effective at removing molecular air pollutants such as VOCs, odors, and chemicals.

Bestselling IQAir Air Purifiers

IQAir HealthPro Plus ($833.33):

This air purifier is perfect for allergy and asthma sufferers, as it offers wide spectrum particle, molecular, and odor filtration.

IQAir HealthPro ($772.22):

The Health Pro offers wide spectrum particle filtration.

IQAir HealthPro Compact ($721.11):

Like the Health Pro line, the HealthPro Compact features wide spectrum particle filtration but in a smaller size.

IQAir GC MultiGas ($995.00):

The GC Multi Gas by IQAir is perfect for those suffering from multiple chemical sensitivity and features highly specialized particle, molecular, and odor filtration.

Air Purifier Reviews: Austin Air Purifiers - Medical-Grade Technology

2008-02-01T09:59:00.000-08:00

Austin Air was founded over a decade ago by Richard and Joyce Taylor. Joyce suffered from a severe respiratory problem that could not be relieved by diets, medication, and doctors, and this prompted her husband Richard Taylor to design and manufacture air purifiers that would replicate the conditions found in hospital clean rooms.

Drawing on clean room technology, the Taylors produced a prototype filter that used True Medical HEPA filter paper, and they found that when this filter was surrounded by granulated carbon, they were able to address the issues related to environmental toxicity - chemicals and odors. Over time, Austin air purifiers have become the air cleaner of choice by leading allergy specialists and physicians throughout the United States and many other parts of the world. Because Austin Air believes that clean air is as essential to good health as clean water, they have made it their mission to manufacture the world’s best personal air purifier and continue to be ranked number one in the world.

At the heart of Austin Air's cleaning process is their advanced HEPA and activated carbon filter. The company utilizes a large amount of filtration media in their air purifiers in order to ensure proper removal of impurities from the air, and best of all, the only maintenance the three-stage filter needs is a periodical vacuum. Large amounts of air are then forced out of the filter media, and Austin air purifiers have the ability to remove 99.97% of all airborne particulate matter larger than 0.3 microns, while also eliminating over 3000 toxic gases and odors.

Other features built into Austin air purifiers include solid steel construction to prevent off-gassing,; a non-toxic, powder-coated finish; high efficiency PSC motor; and the specially engineered pure air vent, which creates what they call the "Clean Air Pocket." This pocket is designed to deliver clean air to your breathing zone in fifteen seconds, unlike other competing air purifiers on the market. This allows you to breathe a sigh of relief immediately.

Austin Air's extensive product line is specifically tailored to accommodate certain air purification needs:

Austin Air HealthMate Air Purifier - $449.99

The Austin Health Mate air purifier cleans up to 1500 square feet and utilizes 15 pounds of Carbon-Zeolite mix and True Medical HEPA filter media.

Austin Air Health Mate Jr. Air Purifier - $299.99The Austin HealthMate Jr. Air Purifier is a scaled down version of the Health Mate and features 6.5 pounds of Carbon-Zeolite mix and True HEPA filter. This air purifier has a coverage area of 700 square feet.

Austin Air AllergyMachine Air Purifier - $449.99The Austin Allergy Machine air purifier cleans up to 1500 square feet with a strategically placed military carbon cloth and True Medical HEPA filter. As well, this is one of the only air purifiers on the market to use HEGA (High Efficiency Gas Absorption) to eliminate toxic gases and chemicals from the air you breathe.

Austin Air Allergy Machine Jr. Air Purifier - $299.99The AllergyMachine Jr. air purifier by Austin Air cleans up to 700 square feet, with military carbon cloth and True HEPA filter.

Austin Air HealthMate Plus Air Purifier - $549.99The Austin Air Health Mate Plus air purifier uses the same HealthMate filter and true medical HEPA filter media with an extra media - potassium iodide impregnated carbon - to enhance chemical adsorption.

Austin Air HealthMate Plus Jr. Air Purifier - $349.99 The Health Mate Plus Jr. air purifier is a more advanced version of the HealthMate Jr. and uses a hospital-grade HEPA filter with potassium iodide added to the activated carbon-zeolite mix.

Austin Air Pet Machine Air Purifier - $449.99 For the pet owner, Austin Air presents the PetMachine air purifier. This air cleaner removes pet dander and odors with its medical grade HEPA and 15 pounds of specially blended carbons and zeolite.

Take control of your air quality and health by purchasing an air purifier by Austin Air - one of the most trusted air purifier manufacturers today.

Air Purifier Reviews: AirSoPure Air Purifiers - The Ultimate in Air Purification

2008-01-29T13:32:00.000-08:00

Air purifiers are designed to clean and purify the air which people breathe, and because the public is now becoming aware of the dangers of indoor air pollution, there are many different types of air purifiers available for consumers.

The California Air Resources Board note that the most effect methods of improving indoor air quality involve the following steps:

1. Removing pollution sources.
2. Reducing pollutant emissions.
3. Providing adequate ventilation.

Air purifiers can improve air quality by reducing pollutant emissions, and some of the most advanced air purifiers on the market are manufactured by Airsopure.

Airsopure is a joint venture between Aurora Wireless Technologies in Taiwan and Garfield Industries, Inc. based in the United States. This marriage of east and west is a testament to U.S. technology and Asian manufacturing, and Airsopure's main goal is to provide a cost-effective air purifier that will help solve the problem of poor indoor air quality.

Airsopure is one of the only companies to offer a single phase, revolutionary six step filtration system using such breakthrough technologies as hospital-grade HEPA filters, UV light, negative ions, and photocatalytic oxidation (PCO). In fact, Airsopure PCO has the ability to convert most volatile organic compounds to harmless carbon dioxide and water vapor, while also capturing and destroying 99.93% of biological contaminants in a single pass. As well, Airsopure air purifiers are unique in that they have the ability to sterilize and eliminate pollutants as opposed to simply filtering them out or collecting them.

Airsopure's product line includes two medical-grade air purifiers - the S-980 and the S-900.

AirSoPure S980

For complete purification of areas up to 900 square feet, the Airsopure S-980 is truly incomparable and offers the ultimate in air purification for your home. In addition to five purification technologies, including a five micron pre-filter, medical-grade HEPA filter, gas adsorption media, UV light, and an ionizer, the Airsopure S-980 also passes contaminated air through a 3-phase PCO chamber with titanium dioxide as part of the filtration process. An air quality detecting function adjusts accordingly to the pollutant levels in your home, and the unit is also quiet and energy efficient.

AirSoPure S900

For smaller areas up to 500 square feet, the Airsopure S-900 is another great bet. This air purifier has all of the air purification technologies one would want, such as True HEPA grade filters, carbon media, PCO chamber, negative ion filter, and UV germicidal lamp for virus and biological contaminant control. Also, because the Airsopure S900 weighs only 16 pounds, you can easily tote this amazing air purifier from one room to the next with ease.

Air Purifier Reviews: AllerAir Air Purifiers

2008-01-25T13:06:00.001-08:00

Because more people are now realizing the dangers of polluted indoor air, the air purification industry has become big business. This has resulted in larger companies who don't specialize in air purifiers to put out inferior units which do very little to remove pollutants from the air you breathe. Fortunately, AllerAir has made it their mission to innovate, design, and sell safe, high-quality, and well-priced air purifiers which can improve your quality of life.

AllerAir was founded almost 14 years by Sam Teitelbaum because one of his family members developed multiple chemical sensitivity. Because no air purifier could provide sufficient and effective relief, Teitelbaum decided to develop his own product, and AllerAir was born.

Unlike many other air purifiers which tout high-tech purification methods such as ionizers and ozone, AllerAir has decided to simply use a unique activated carbon-HEPA blended filter to purify the air.

AllerAir's Carbon-HEPA Filters Vs. Other Air Purification Technologies

Ozone Air Purifiers
In recent news, ozone air purifiers have received negative reviews because of the health problems associated with ozone gas. In fact, the State of California has even issued a ban on all ozone air cleaners by 2009. Ozone air purifier manufacturers claim that ozone air purifiers clean the air by utilizing the oxidation powers of ozone to cause chemical reactions with harmful particulates. This then renders these particulates harmless, and while this is true, ozone also has an effect on the human body, as exposure to high levels of ozone can lead to respiratory problems, lung damage, and exacerbate allergy and asthma symptoms. The carbon-HEPA based AllerAir air purifiers such as the AllerAir Air Tube do not cause chemical reactions and pose no serious health or environmental threats.

Electrostatic (Ionic) Air Purifiers
Electrostatic air purifiers use a powerful electric field to charge airborne particles which are then collected onto metal collector plates. Unfortunately, these air purifiers also produce small amounts of ozone, and independent research has shown that ionizers do little to clean the air. In comparison, carbon-HEPA air purifiers such as the AllerAir 5000 Exec are recognized as an effective and safe way to remove airborne particles, odors, gases, and chemicals.

Air Purifiers with Carbon-Treated Filters
Carbon has long been recognized as a powerful adsorption media, and many air purifier manufacturers have taken notice. Unfortunately, these air purifiers frequently use a form of foam media that has been sprayed with carbon that features only a quarter or an inch length of carbon. This translates into an ineffective filter that could stop adsorbing within hours. On the other hand, AllerAir air purifiers such as the AllerAir 4000 Exec UV use several pounds of granular activated carbon which can last for years depending on use.

HEPA Air Purifiers
Many air purifiers only utilize HEPA filtration to purify the air, and while HEPA filters are an extremely effective way to remove airborne particles, they cannot remove odors, gases, chemicals, or smoke from the air. AllerAir's carbon-HEPA combination filter, as seen in models such as the AllerAir 5000 Vocarb, not only removes particles, but they filter out some of the most harmful pollutants - gases and chemicals. For serious indoor pollutant abatement, HEPA, used in conjunction with Activated Carbon, has been found to be the most effective method of ensuring clean air.

Air Purifier Reviews: Airpura Air Purifiers - A Green Company

2008-01-22T15:20:00.000-08:00

"Green Living" is gaining popularity, as more people understand the value of conducting their lives with an all-encompassing awareness of the earth and all its processes. Green living includes making choices that takes into account how it will impact the environment and all living things within it, and by minimizing one's "ecological footprints," ecologically-minded people hope to preserve the earth for future generations of human beings and other forms of life. In fact, as a testament to green living, shortly after the September 11 attacks, an environmental engineer from New York proposed using plants as a natural way to help improve air quality in a New York area high school, and 1,000 plants were subsequently donated from the Florida Nursery and Grower's Association.

However, before you resort to purchasing a nursery full of plants in an attempt to clean your air, one air purifier manufacturer has pledged to design and manufacturer air purifiers that are not only effective, but good for the environment as well.

Conscious of its role as an environmental company from the beginning, Airpura has been determined to operate in the greenest way possible, and their objectives have been to reduce waste and carbon emissions; to recycle materials used in the production and facilitation of Airpura products at the end of their useful life; and to reuse whenever possible.

Even Airpura's design choices are informed by green considerations, and the company strives to obtain the most inert components with the smallest environmental footprint possible, while at the same time, creating an air purifier that delivers unparalleled premium filtration performance. Here are some of the other standout "green" features Airpura air purifiers have to offer:

1. Airpura air purifiers such as the C600 (for chemicals) utilize 560 cfm backward curved motorized impellers which deliver greater airflow when compared to other competing air purifiers, while at the same time, weighing less that half of their older motor/shaft/blower wheel configurations.
2. Airpura air purifiers are PCB free, and no lead is used in soldering in the speed control.
3. The Airpura 600 series, which includes the C600, I600 (for medical settings), T600 (for tobacco smoke), and R600 (all-purpose air purifying), is free of any plastic, silicone, rubber, adhesives, or bonding agents which may off gas chemical vapors and cause harm to the environment.
4. The Airpura 600 series carbon containers use rivet fastening rather than spot welding, as spot welding has been found to use more energy and give off particles, chemicals, and greenhouse gases.
5. Airpura air purifiers such as H600 (for allergies) have all-metal housing, and avoid plastic, resulting in a more ecologically sound product, with 93% of the air purifier being recyclable.

With a wide product line geared towards any air purification problem, it's clear that the air purification industry belongs to companies such as Airpura, which can offer advanced products while at the same time, operating within the boundaries of a renewable resource.

Air Purifier Reviews: Biozone Air Purifiers - A New Type of Air Cleaner

2008-01-18T14:29:00.000-08:00

On the surface, air purifiers may seem to employ simple technology to clean the air, as many effective air purifiers often draw air with a fan and through a filter, and send it back out into the room. However, many new and exciting technologies are becoming more prevalent in the air purification industry.

Biozone, a world-leading manufacturer of ozone generators and ozone water treatment processes, have developed air purification systems which utilize ozone oxidation technology. Originally developed for commercial, industrial, and agricultural markets, Biozone air purification technology is now available to consumers, and their air purifiers provide odor control and disinfection by harnessing the high oxidation potential of ozone.

Biozone calls their advanced air purification system "PureWave," and this involves the combination and synergy of two powerful purifying technologies: photoplasma and photochemistry. Photoplasma involves exciting gases by the energy emitted from UV light waves. This creates an energized gaseous state, and the resulting plasma has the ability to destroy organic pollutants such as viruses, bacteria, mold, and noxious odors. On the other hand, photochemistry involves the chemical reaction or change in material caused by exposure to light energy. UV light in this range is extremely useful for disinfection purposes, as strong UV light destroys toxic VOCs and viruses. Therefore, unlike other air purifiers which simply filter out particles from the air, Biozone air purifiers break down contaminants at the source, and they are extremely powerful at purifying heavily contaminated areas such as bars or salons. In addition, because Biozone air purifiers use ozone oxidation, photoplasma, and photochemistry to clean the air, they do not employ noisy fans or filters and are silent, making them ideal for home use.

However, there is one caveat: those who are sensitive to ozone, or asthma and allergy sufferers, should not consider these types of air purifiers, as exposure to ozone can cause short-term health effects such as coughing, chest tightness, and can even aggravate asthma attacks and allergy symptoms. Over time, ozone exposure may result in the induction of asthma and permanent lung damage. Although the ozone levels emitted by Biozone are well below the government-allowed limit, those with respiratory problems should take caution.

Pros:
- Excellent filtration of large areas (the Biozone 4000 is capable of cleaning areas up to 4000 sq. ft.)
- Almost completely silent
- Suitable for areas with high pollution and/or odors

Cons:
- Not suitable for those with respiratory problems
- May not be effective at removing larger particulates such as dust and hair

Allergy Air Purifiers - IQAir HealthPro Vs. Austin Air AllergyMachine

2008-01-15T13:38:00.000-08:00

Even though we have a few more months before Spring begins, many Americans may be suffering from allergies due to indoor air pollution. Because the cold weather forces us to spend the majority our time inside, indoor allergens proliferate due to decreased outside ventilation, and these airborne particulates are usually the dominant cause.

Although pollen may not be a prevalent allergen during the winter time, dust mites can be the main cause of poor indoor air quality during the cooler months. Dust mites are microscopic creatures that range from 100 to 450 microns in size, and their major source of food is skin dander. As temperatures drop, humidity levels are also significantly decreased, leaving us with drier skin (and more food for dust mites). In addition, because of cooler, dryer weather, dust mites also become lighter and more airborne.

To counter winter allergies, using a quality air purifier with a state-of-the-art HEPA filter is absolutely imperative, as these have the ability to remove at least 99.97% of allergens from the air you breathe. As such, we will look at two highly advanced air purifiers with medical-grade HEPA filters geared specifically towards allergy sufferers - the HealthPro by IQAir and the Austin Air AllergyMachine.

IQAir HealthPro - $772.22

IQAir is one of the most trusted names in air purification and for good reason, as IQAir provides Swiss precision with cutting-edge air cleaning technology. Although somewhat pricey, the HealthPro by IQAir is recommended for allergy sufferers because of its advanced HEPA filter and its ability to remove allergens and other particulates. The IQAir HealthPro also features a pressurized equalization chamber located between the HEPA filter and fan to maximize air delivery. Price aside, for severe allergy sufferers who do not need significant gas or odor control, the HealthPro is one of the best allergy air purifiers on the market. Here are a few pros and cons:

Pros:
- Excellent filtration of large areas
- Separate pre-gas, HEPA, and filters allow for maximum cleaning
- Certified under the world's most stringent HEPA filter test - the European Norm EN 1822

Cons:
- More expensive than many other HEPA air purifiers
- Not designed for gas or chemical abatement

Ratings (on a scale from 1 to 10):
Value: 7
Efficiency: 10
Maintenance Costs: 7

Austin Air AllergyMachine - $449.99

The quality of Austin air purifiers cannot be denied. As a result of extensive testing performed by Battelle Laboratories and the Army Corp of Engineers at the U.S. Army Aberdeen Test Center, Austin Air was chosen by the U.S. Government to fulfill the largest deployment of air cleaners in American history, and was specifically chosen by FEMA and the Red Cross to address the serious indoor air quality concerns in post 9/11 New York. Therefore, by using advanced technology that was previously only available to military and medical facilities, the Austin Air AllergyMachine is specifically designed to trap classic allergens such as dander, pollen, and dust through its dual medical-grade HEPA and HEGA filters. As an added plus, the Austin AllergyMachine feature solid steel construction that does not off gas like air purifiers made of plastic. At $449, the Austin AllergyMachine is a great investment for allergy suffers and is substantially less expensive than the IQAir HealthPro. Here are a few pros and cons:

Pros:
- Utilizes advanced HEPA and HEGA technology developed by the military
- Non-toxic, all-metal construction
- Economical

Cons:
- Does not include other purification technologies commonly found in high-end air purifiers such as UV sterilization or PCO
- Can be noisy

Ratings:
Value: 8
Efficiency: 8
Maintenance Costs: 8