Air Purifiers

Timely post, wouldn’t you agree? Purifying our air is more important than ever considering the times we’re living. Outside of the normal germs we want to avoid, there’s another more menacing threat out there. And more than simply coronavirus, many of us either have or are living with folks with respiratory issues. Everything from allergies to seasonal changes affects our breathing and as a result air purifiers are in hot demand.

On an annual basis Americans spend roughly $250 million on air purifiers. All purifiers contain filters, and some manufacturers refer to these as air cleaners. In a typical household these filters are part of the cooling and heating system. A filter cartridge is then placed into the apparatus enabling the air flowing into the furnace to pass through and be filtered. This removes contaminants and minimizes damage due to dirt build-up.

HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are filters comprised of any material that allows less than 0.03 percent of particles (size of 0.3 micrometers) through. The ULPA (Ultra-Low Penetration Air) standard takes HEPA to a whole new level, but is usually reserved for areas that require an above average level of cleanliness. Ionizing purifiers call on a method known as corona discharge, creating ions that are charged molecules. An atom found in the air typically has a neutral charge, and the corona discharge creates an electrical field allowing for the molecule to pass through and pick up a negative charge. Once larger contaminants subsequently pass through they are naturally attracted to the opposite charge and coalesce resulting in particle clumps. As these clumps get heavier they’ll eventually settle and remain removed from the air.

So now that we understand the mechanics, let’s talk purifiers. The Honeywell True Allergen Remover HPA300 Air Purifier is a 100% mechanical filtering system (as opposed to a hybrid or electronic unit). It can take care of a space of roughly 465 square feet, weighs less than 25 pounds, and best yet, priced under $200. The True Allergen Remover calls on a two-stage process, pulling air in through a carbon pre-filter and then again through the previously mentioned HEPA filter. A super handy self-monitoring function alerts the user when it is time to change filters (we can’t think of anything more practical), and filter replacements are a snap to replace via a removable front panel.

Another solid bet is the Austin Air HealthMate Standard HM-400 Air Purifier. We’ll be honest; the first negative with this filter is the cost. It’s not cheap. It can also be noisier than the Honeywell but filter replacements are infrequent (quite possibly the least infrequent on the market today), and a mega four-stage mechanical purification system makes sure particles are identified and removed swiftly. Best yet, this puppy can cruise though 1,500 square feet and sits on a set of wheels that helps a ton when moving this beast. It unfortunately weighs 45 pounds.

The Honeywell and Austin are clear winners in the air purifier department. The technology is rapidly changing however so look for other players to get involved. Germs aren’t going anywhere so ensuring your air is as pure as the driven snow is a must, must in 2020.