How to choose an air purifier for an apartment: important points
An indispensable device in urban environments can be an air purifier for an apartment. Which device to choose from a wide range of products, an ordinary consumer can hardly say. In connection with the relevance of the topic, it is proposed to consider the basic principles on which the choice should be based.
The content of the article
The main types of filter elements
The most important components of devices designed to remove negative impurities from air masses are filters. The cleaning efficiency largely depends on their type. The most popular are the following varieties.
Mechanical
Mechanical filters are mainly used for pre-cleaning air streams. They are able to trap dust particles, organic and inorganic fibers, animal hair. Most often they are used to protect the internal parts of devices.
In this case, a polymer mesh, foam rubber or special fabric is used as a filter element. If the barrier for the penetration of large particles is not cleaned in time, then its effectiveness is reduced to zero. To remove dirt, you can use normal or washing vacuum cleaner.
Coal
In most cases, these filters are used as additional elements in cleaning systems. They cannot effectively trap light compounds, but they are capable of trapping unpleasant odors, gas impurities, esters, phenols and formaldehydes.
The principle of operation of the filters is that the molecules of substances are adsorbed directly on the activated carbon. However, different particles can be absorbed in different ways. Some are worse and some are better.
As it gets dirty, it is necessary to replace the filter parts. Their service life can vary within 3-12 months. You can buy an air purifier for an apartment with a charcoal filter for a relatively low price. However, they are more often used in combination with other analogs.
Electrostatic
Electrostatic structures are highly efficient. They perfectly clean the air from soot and dust, but not from toxic substances and volatile organic compounds. The filters are based on the principle of collision of charges of two polarities.
During operation, voltage is applied to the block consisting of metal plates. It makes it possible to form an electrostatic field. Dust as it passes between these plates is attracted to them. The filters are capable of capturing particles larger than 0.01 microns, so they are excellent for use in air purifiers from dust.
HEPA filters
The products are manufactured on the basis of branched-pore borosilicate fiberglass. They trap 85 to 95 percent of pollutants. As for the advanced analogs of TRUE HEPA, they help to clean the air by 99 percent.
Due to their high efficiency, the presented filters are widely used in medicine, industry and electronics. Of the significant disadvantages for consumers, one can single out the high cost of products.
Photocatalytic
Filtration uses a completely new technology called photocatalysis. Harmful impurities of organic origin do not remain inside, but decompose under the influence of ultraviolet radiation and titanium dioxide. As a result, harmless components are formed.
Photocatalytic filters are capable of breaking down the smallest particles that can only be compared with large molecules. The cleaning efficiency is not affected by the period of operation of the filter element, since there is no period of use.
How to choose an air purifier for an apartment: basic rules
An effective solution for living in a polluted city environment is an air purifier for an apartment. Every resident of a metropolis should know which device to choose from the whole variety of existing models, especially if the ecological situation in a particular region is not at a high level.
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Considered parameters
When choosing a cleaning device, certain parameters must be taken into account.
- The performance of the device plays the most important role. This indicator determines how much of the room can be cleaned in a certain period of time.
- The type of filter installed is equally important. The main types were listed above. The best air purifier for an apartment has a stepped filter system.
- Additional functions can also come in handy during operation. Devices can be equipped with various indicators, timers, ultraviolet lamps, humidifiers and other useful features.
- The level of noise generated will necessarily affect comfort. If you work too loudly, living in the room will not be very pleasant. In this regard, the purchased device must be silent.
Note! Before going to the store, the consumer must clearly understand which air purifier to choose for the apartment.Feedback from device owners should help when considering specific models.
Popular models of air purifiers for allergy sufferers and asthmatics
Certain brands of filtering devices have become very popular due to their quality characteristics. In this regard, it is proposed to familiarize yourself with the independent rating of air purifiers. A special table contains popular brands with prices and other parameters.
Table 1. Characteristics and average cost of air purifiers
Helpful information! The listed device models have a multi-stage cleaning system. They are able to eliminate most allergens: pollen, pet hair and dander, fungal spores, and so on.
Recommendations for use
Correct use of devices will help to extend their service life, so it is still worth familiarizing yourself with the general operating instructions:
- devices should be located on a dry, level surface;
- if the device will not be used for a long time, it is best to use standard packaging for storage;
- the product must be in an accessible place for regular maintenance and cleaning;
- before connecting to the electrical network, make sure that its parameters match the parameters of the purchased device.
Summarizing
Within the framework of the article, it was considered which air purifiers are chosen for apartments and what should be considered when purchasing. However, you should not forget about the design possibilities. Devices should successfully fit into the overall interior, because in the conditions of modern life, aesthetic characteristics are highly valued.
Video: how to choose an air cleaner for an apartment