With all of the pollutants found in indoor air and the rapid rise in serious allergies, asthma and other respiratory ailments, you may be thinking about installing an air purification system in your home. With so many different types to choose from, it can be a daunting task to select the right one for your Northern Michigan home. To help you out, we’ve put together some important factors to consider when buying a new air purifier.
Filtration
There are many types of air filters that are used in air purifiers. Since each type of filter is designed to target different sizes and types of pollutants, it’s best to look for a purifier with a multi-stage filtration system.
The most popular filter found in air purification systems today is the HEPA filter. Although there’s no doubt these filters are excellent for purification, they’re not designed to catch very fine airborne particles, such as viruses, organic compounds, bad odors, smoke and chemical compounds. High-end purifiers usually combine HEPA filters with active charcoal filters that target the finest particles. When buying a new air purifier, you should look for at least these two filter types.
Installation
A whole-home air cleaner can be installed on your HVAC system if it can support add-on equipment. Since this form draws indoor air from cold air returns, heats it and passes it through the filtration system, your whole home’s air is exchanged for cleaner air. While whole-home purification is ideal, it may not be possible to install it in every home. In this case, you should look for a high-efficiency portable air cleaner that’s easy to move and plugs into a regular electric receptacle.
Noise Factor and Fan Speeds
Most quality air purifiers are designed for quiet operation. However, air cleaning can be a noisy process. Look for a system with variable fan speeds, so you can limit noise when necessary.
Team Bob’s Heating Cooling Plumbing has been helping people in Traverse City and the surrounding areas breathe easier and healthier for over 30 years. Contact us for help choosing the best system for your home.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Traverse City, Michigan and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about air purifiers and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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