Air Purifier and Humidifier Secrets – 10 Tips to Buying the Right Unit

A quality air purifier and humidifier can make a huge difference in the pollution levels of your indoor air. Depending on how and when they are used determines whether or not they are beneficial to the grade of your indoor air.

There are many product reviews for humidifiers or air purifiers which can be found both online and offline. However, such reviews are usually written with the purpose of steering you to purchase the product. Most people search for this type of product because they have an immediate need and then make a decision to buy before they have time to properly research the product’s benefits or dangers. Here are some tips to consider prior to purchasing an air purifier or humidifier.

air purifiers, 5 Things to Consider Before Buying

Filter type. Some air purifier manufacturers market their products by using statements as “HEPA Type” in their packaging or literature. However, “True HEPA” is the only filter which is efficient enough to remove the air pollutants which are known to cause most allergies or asthma. Consider purchasing air purifiers which use “True HEPA” filtration. Filter replacement. The cost per year to operate is an important factor to consider before buying. First of all, you must determine how often the manufacturer suggests that each filter is to be replaced. Secondly, calculate your yearly cost by dividing the cost of the replacement filters by the filter replacement frequency. Some air purifiers can actually cost more to operate over a five year period than the original unit cost. Consider purchasing units which can be operated over a 10-year period before reaching the original unit cost. Manufacturer credibility. Many manufacturers have entered the air purifier market in recent years and may not have a long history of manufacturing this type of product. It is important to purchase from an established manufacturer who will be around when it’s time to buy replacement filters or parts. Chemical removal. Most air purifiers are designed with the sole purpose of removing particles from the air. However, if you would also like to remove chemicals or odors found in the indoor air, it is important to consider higher-end units which provide that capability. Consider buying air purifiers which also contain chemical and odor removing media. Granules such as activated carbon or potassium permanganate will remove chemicals and improve organic odors. Many of the higher-end air purifier manufacturers offer these media packs as an option which can be changed out independently from the HEPA and pre-filters. Ozone-producing air purifiers. Certain air purifiers which have an “Ion” or “Ionic” function may produce ozone. High levels of ozone in the indoor environment can cause lung irritation and other ill effects. Consider units which have been approved by regulatory agencies as safe or non-ozone producers.
Air Humidifiers, 5 Things to Consider Before Buying

Power Consumption. Humidifiers traditionally are left running for extended periods of time and may consume much electricity. Before purchasing, compare the wattage rating among the choices and research units which claim to be more energy efficient. Noise Level. Because humidifiers will operate in rooms, it is important to choose a unit which will not be excessively loud. Compare the manufacturers’ published dB ratings before making a choice. Ease of Cleaning. Humidifiers will build up excess organic matter deposits within the units and can be a breeding ground for mold growth. It is paramount to remove those deposits on a regular basis. Consider units which break down and reassemble easily for cleaning purposes. Mist/Steam. It is important to understand that any pollutants which may be present in the water placed in a unit will be discharged into the air. Consider warm-mist or steam units which actually heat the water up before discharging into the air. Cold-water or cool-mist units can cause an indoor air pollutant problem and are not as effective as the warm-mist or steam units. Manufacturer Credibility. Once again, it is important to purchase a humidifier unit from an established manufacturer who will be around if replacement parts are required in the future.