Home versus Room Air Purifiers

There are two major categories of air purifiers: home air purifiers and room air purifiers. Typically, room air purifiers are the models with smaller CFMs and more air changes, while home air purifiers come with larger CFMs and less air changes. So how do you know which one is best for you?

Well, normally a choice like this is based solely on your own preferences. However, if you look at the usefulness of each type, you will see that separate air purifiers for each room work better collectively than one air purifier for the whole house. I say this because, as mentioned before, smaller room air purifiers change the air more often, so your air is cleaner pretty much at all times.

However, it also really depends on the size of your house. If you live in a small apartment, a home air purifier will more than likely suffice.

This morning, I went out to lunch with my cousin out in Irvine. Someone was smoking right next to us, and my cousin started coughing. She complained about her asthma, and how it was so hard for her to breathe sometimes. I told her, "Don't you wish we could have an air purifier for the air outside, as well?" She looked confused until she finally asked me what an air purifier was. I was shocked - I thought everyone at least knew what an air purifier did, but apparently I was wrong.

I told her about HEPA filters and how they capture allergens like dust and pollen, and about carbon filters and how they absorb odors and smoke. She was pretty fascinated, so I convinced her to get the small Vornado AQS500 air purifier as a starter. It's small and it's super easy to use, so I thought it would be perfect for her. I haven't talked to her since this morning, but I'm sure that I'll hear some positive results from her by tomorrow!

The Onix Eliminates Microorganisms Using Heat!

Yesterday, I got to take a look at the magnificent Airfree Onix air sanitizer and purifier. Instead of being like a regular air purifier, the Onix uses much less energy (only 52 watts, to be exact) and purifies using heat! This air santizer uses 400°F heat instead of ozone or a UV light to purify air. In fact, the unit reduces the amount of ozone found in your air while it eliminates microorganisms. Additionally, the Onix from Airfree is so small and portable - it weighs a mere 3.3 pounds and measures less than 10 inches on all sides! This makes it perfect for bringing it over to friends or relatives' houses.

The Onix works silently and requires no maintenance whatsoever because there are no moving parts, no fan, and no filters, making it one of the most perfect air purifiers out there on the market.

Air Fresheners

Yesterday, I received an early birthday present from my friend on the east coast. She surprised me with the Thermax Mini-Max air freshener and purifier! I thought it was a very cool gift. She knows that I'm an air purifier lover, but my home already has a few of them, so she thought this Mini-Max would be a great idea - and it really was!

The Mini-Max works as a humidifier, vaporizer, air freshener, and air purifier all in one. I especially love the fact that it's a humidifier because I'm sick right now, and that has definitely helped with my coughing. The little air freshener smells so good, too! It comes with mulberry, Italian cream, eucalyptus/menthol and aqua blue scents, all of which smell fresh and clean - just the way I like my air!

Green Air Purifiers

When purchasing any appliance, it's always smart to think about energy-efficient models that can help you save money and help the environment at the same time. When it comes to air purifiers, Blueair air purifiers are some of the "greenest" air cleaners on the market. These air purifiers not only use HEPA filtration to capture dust, pollen, dander, and other allergens, but they're also extremely silent. Their HEPASilent technology reminds you that these units from Blueair are able to capture more allergens and irritants without disrupting your environment. As a result, these air purifiers are perfect for use while reading, studying, and even sleeping!

In addition to its amazing HEPASilent technology, Blueair provides some of the first Energy Star rated air purifiers to the market. These air cleaners save you hundreds a year with their "ECO" settings - and they only use about 120 watts of energy maximum!

Air Purifiers Should Be Everywhere

As a clean air enthusiast, I get a little upset when I don't see an air purifier in every home I enter. I know, it's ridiculous. However, I really think that everyone should have one. Every time I go to a friend's house, I always worry about the kind of indoor air quality that I might encounter. Will it have a ton of pet dander? Pollen? Or even worse, chemicals? Since my nose has an uncanny ability to find allergens, I get crazy allergy symptoms right away. That's one of the main reasons why my air purifier at home is turned on 24/7. I can't afford to have my allergies get the best of me when I have to worry about food allergies as well!

I'm not sure, but I think that maybe my criticism of the lack of air purifiers in my friends' homes may be the reason why most don't invite me back! That is, until they come inside my home and find out what they've been missing out on!

When most people think about air purifiers, they think of the appliances that capture allergens like pet dander, pet hair, dust, viruses, etc. However, what many don't realize is that sometimes you need a chemical removing air purifier for removing other types of particles in the air, including ammonia, formaldehyde, tobacco, nitrogen dioxide, and more.

These chemicals not only smell bad (ammonia smells like rotten eggs - literally!), but they also are extremely harmful for your health. Many times, these chemicals can come from new carpets, new furniture, paints, cleaning products, and even plants! I know, you're probably thinking, "You're crazy! How can plants be harmful to your health?" The truth is that many plants are sprayed with pesticides - some even produce their own volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These plants include peace lilies, areca palms, weeping figs and snake plants, so be extra careful when you choose the plants that you want to keep in your home.

Mold in the Winter

I just discovered something very eye-opening today. I found out that mold can actually grow during the winter season! I always thought that mold and mildew only grew during the summer, or when the weather is hot. Turns out, mold grows where it's wet. I had to learn this the hard way, sadly.

A few weeks ago, it was raining here and there was a leak in my roof. I didn't really think twice about it, just cleaned it up and got it fixed. However, to my surprise this morning, I was greeted by some nasty mold in the corner of the wall. Of course, I looked online for some cleaning tips. After I washed it off and threw away my clothes and the washcloth, I dried it with a dehumidifier and put my mold air purifier right by it. Thank goodness I have a few air purifiers on hand, though. Could you imagine what my house would be like if I didn't have an air purifier? Because air purifiers kill mold spores, I can rest easy knowing that there won't be anymore mold or mildew in my home tonight! Whew!

HEPA Filters

While watching Jersey Shore yesterday, I saw a commercial for a vacuum cleaner that uses HEPA filters, and I thought, Wow, all types of appliances use HEPA filters. But what exactly is a HEPA filter? Most people know the general idea - HEPA air purifiers capture small particles like dust, bacteria, etc. But just how effective is it?

As it turns out, air purifiers with HEPA filters can capture up to 99.97% of particles up to 0.3 microns in size. That's approximately 1/100th of a human hair! As a result, HEPA filters get rid of pollutants in the air like pet dander, pollen, bacteria, dust, and more. And many air purifiers also feature a pre-filter to go in front of the HEPA filter - to make it last longer and to capture even larger particles.

So, in the end, HEPA air purifiers can help you sleep better, have more energy, and stay healthier!

IQAir at the Dentist's

After experiencing an excruciating toothache last night, I decided to take a trip to my dentist. I really don't like going to the dentist's, mind you, because they always manage to find something wrong with my teeth (though that's probably partially my fault). As I walked in, I noticed something very familiar in the corner of the room. I was pretty excited to see that my dentist uses an IQAir purifier!

I just realized how nerdy and/or weird that sounds. Air purifiers don't randomly excite me, but I havd just never seen one before, even though I read about the brand on Air Purifier Home's website. They're great for removing bacteria and other microorganisms - so at least I know my dentist's office is clean!

Anyway, it turns out that I just need to floss more. My gums were just irritated. I wonder if the air purifier would be able to kill any bacteria that might be in my mouth if I sit next to it for a while...? That's a thought.

Small Appliances

Living in your own apartment or in a college dorm usually means that everything you own has to be either really small or just miniature. It's no different for me. I live in an apartment right next to my university's campus, so space is limited for me. I have to fit everything I own into one tiny room, especially since I share the apartment with a few people. So, everything I own is tiny - my bed, my closet, my desk, etc. I always feel so bummed out that I can only get small furniture when I go out shopping. However, when it comes to appliances, I think that the smaller the units are, the better. When they take up less room, I have more room for my clothes and my books! I have a compact air purifier, a small space heater, and a small refrigerator in my room, which I find all very convenient. Well, minus that refrigerator... I'm a college student, so naturally I need tons of room in the freezer for my frozen meals. Good thing we have another refrigerator outside!

Ugh, Allergies

Growing up, I've pretty much been allergic to almost everything. I'm allergic to seafood (but I love it!); seafood gives me itchy hives, which is rather unfortunate. I can't be anywhere near flowers because pollen brings out the worst in me. My allergies go crazy whenever I'm near any dust. The list goes on and on.

So, as a kind of late Christmas present to myself, I bought an air purifier that specifically takes care of allergies - the Austin Air HealthMate. Well, technically I was going to get the Allergy Machine, but I decided that the HealthMate would be a better choice because it also helps with odors. My room sometimes smells like smoke because, unfortunately, my neighbors hang out next to my window. The HealthMate has a carbon filter, which I found has really gotten rid of the tobacco smoke. And its HEPA filter has really been helpful with my allergies.

Now, if I can just find a way to get rid of my seafood allergy...

Air Purifier FAQs

Here are some common questions that often come up when talking about air purifiers:

What is IAQ and why is it important?
IAQ stands for Indoor Air Quality and refers to the purity of the air you breathe, well, indoors. Most of the time, it refers to the air you breathe inside your home. IAQ is important because, as it turns out, most people spend their time indoors. If the IAQ is bad, then you end up inhaling many fumes or chemicals left from cleaning supplies, or even pollutants such as allergens. As a result of bad IAQ, you may have heightened allergic symptoms and more irritations. Air purifiers help improve your IAQ using various technologies.

What are the different technologies that air purifiers use and how are they different?
There are HEPA air purifiers, which are best for removing smaller, hard-to-see particles like pet dander, pollen, and other tiny allergens up to 0.3 microns in size. Ionic air purifiers change the polarity of the contaminants in the air, causing them to fall from the air you breathe. Carbon air cleaners are great for removing odors, gases, and chemicals. And finally, UV air purifiers use a UV light that stop microbiological contaminants such as mold, fungus, bacteria, and viruses from reproducing.

For more information about air purifiers, take a look at this handy air purifier guide! You'll learn all you need to know about using an air purifier to start living a healthier life with this guide.

Goodbye 2009, Hello 2010!

Allergies are most worrysome when it comes to children. A lot of the time parents think that giving their children some allergy medicine, everything will be all right. In fact, the situation may not be so simple - you can't just keep giving your child allergy medication every day! Children and adults alike may be experiencing allergies from more than you'd expect. There are other factors to consider, such as the indoor air quality of your home. The indoor air quality of your home depends on a lot of different factors, many of which you might not realize are effecting the quality of the air you breathe. If you have pets, dander and waste can be a result of itchy and watery eyes. If you use many cleaning products and there is no fresh air being circulated in or out of the house, you and your family may experience unpleasant respiratory symptoms. By keeping an air purifier inside of the house (you can even keep one in every room for better indoor air quality), you can have safer, fresher air for everyone to breathe! And for children's rooms, I would recommend a unit like the Crane EE-5064. This air purifier is shaped like a shark and it operates quietly, ultimately making your child's room a healthier environment to live in.

Oh, I also want to wish a Happy New Year to all! Is anyone going to watch the ball drop tomorrow night? I always wish I could be over in New York while the ball drops, but I image it's probably a little too crowded over there every New Year's eve. Anyway, we hope that 2010 turns out to be a great year for everyone!

Pets and Allergies

Many people don't realize that the reason they may be experiencing symptoms of allergies may be because of their pets. Irritants don't only come from dogs and cats, however. A common misconception is that the only residue your pets leave is pet dander. In fact, symptoms of allergies can also be triggered by odors from a litter box, dust particles from a bird's wings, dried saliva from a cat's skin or fur, and waste particles from, well, every pet. These irritants end up triggering the worst allergy symptoms such as runny noses and eyes, sneezing, rashes, and watery eyes.

The best solution to the problems with pets, of course, is an air purifier. However, not just any air purifier will do. There are a few different technologies that are proven the most effective when it comes to pets. Air purifiers that use HEPA technology are great for trapping smaller, harder-to-see particles. Purifiers with a UV light are also great investments because they stop mold, fungi, and bacteria from reproducing on the hairs and secretions of your pets. The best type of air purifier for removing odors is one that uses activated carbon. Carbon filters absorb all types of odors, so you can start breathing fresher, healthier air. A great recommendation for pet owners is the Surround Air XJ3000E air purifier. This unit actually features all three of the technologies I listed above (and some more)!

Air Purifier Reviews

When it comes to buying air purifiers (or air cleaners, whichever you prefer), many people don't know the difference between the various brands and technologies. As a result, they end up purchasing an air purifier that they've heard of before or that the company or website says they should get. These customers may end up buying air purifiers that are more expensive or are not well-suited for these particular customers.

Air Purifier Home is making it easier than ever to decide which air purifier you might need. We have an extensive air purifier guide that can tell you which technologies are best for allergies or mold reduction. Additionally, we have recommendations that can help you choose your perfect air cleaner depending on what exact qualities you need it to have. Just this week, we've also added a page of unbiased air purifier reviews that tell you the pros and cons of each air purifier we have featured on the page. With these guides, finding the perfect air purifier will no longer be a headache-inducing task! :)

Air Purifiers to the Rescue!

While I was paying a visit to my neighbor a few weeks ago, it became a little too cold for our tastes and my neighbor finally turned on her heater for the first time in months. The next thing I knew, I was coughing and sneezing all over the place. It turns out that her heating system was full of dust from lack of use over the summer months, and as a result, the dust kept building up. I ran home to take allergy medication, and I remembered some useful information. During the winter, allergies and irritability can be triggered by merely turning on the central heating system or by burning logs in a fireplace. To get rid of these allergens, dust, and other irritants, the best solution is to use an air purifier. I ran over to my neighbor's house and let her borrow my air purifier for a day. It helped her breathe so much better that she bought a new one the very next day for constant 24-hour use! She recently told me that the air cleaner is pretty much the best purchase she's ever made.

What's best about air purifiers is that they can help you relieve allergy symptoms year-round, so you know for sure that they're a great investment.

Is the Electrolux EL500AZ Air Purifier Good for Pets?

So my cats have gotten restless...and I've gotten tired of vacuuming the rug twice a week. Summer is approaching and my medium-haired boy, Link, is shedding hair as if he was a balding middle-aged man. Whenever I pet the fellas their dander causes my eyes to water...and since I've retrained them back into the traditional kitty litter box, the smell has been creeping on our furniture.

I finally cleaned the apartment during the weekend and I was ready to have guests over, but I was also concerned with the smell and the cleanliness. After scrubbing the stove twice, and making sure I had enough lemony fresh detergent in the sink. A friend recommended that I feed my cats a certain dry food to reduce the smell of their stools...and even if I used it I found that the pleasant fragrances went away once the cats...well...had to let nature take its course.

I blame it on the small space I have. My bathroom may fit maybe three people comfortably, but it reminds me of a bathroom in the cabin of a cruise ship (economic class, of course!). But being a recent college grad, I can't exactly afford anymore than I am spending on a home, or a bathroom.

So since my last few posts I've been contemplating (and saving up for) a filter that would not only eliminate odors, but provide a pleasant visit for guests who may be allergic to cats. I am not completely allergic, although I'd get the occasional sneeze or tear from "over-petting" my cats. When I visited the shelter, I had to constantly wipe my eyes and cover my sneezes. With such a high concentration of cats it was hard for me to really enjoy the company of these delightful animals. Now that cats are starting to shed for the summer, I find myself sneezing about again.

I purchased the EL500AZ on a recommendation, and because it was advertised as a "pet" filter. It was a bit bigger than what I had expected...and although I really love compact models I knew that most would not fit the job at hand. I left it on for one day while I was at work, and when I came back home I noticed a very big difference. I was able to lay on my couch and relax. Link pounced on my body and napped on me without a teary eye or a sneeze.

So far, I am quite happy with my EL500AZ. The design is a bit on the futuristic side, but being in a room where the living room and den are separated by only a window shutter, it seemed to have done the trick!

Can an Air Purifier Get Rid of My Cat Odor?

I have cats; Link and Zelda. Well...they were kittens when we adopted them. My boyfriend I went to the shelter over a year ago for some kitty love; Someone special to fill that void in our lives like children would - minus the diaper-changing and college tuition savings. We had to visit the shelter a couple of times, since it had 500 puppy-eyed cats (LOL oxymoron) and we wanted to pick two kittens out. My BF and I decided that we needed two cats because, well, we thought it would be nice to keep them company when we're not around.

My home is about 900 sq. feet and I didn't really think two cats would be problematic. At the time I thought, "Hey, they're young...we'll train them to do whatever we want!" But, I was wrong about that. Despite wanting them to be "well-behaved", they're still cats. They do cat-things like eat Meow Mix and lounge in the sunlight. And the biggest habit that I'm sure all of us would wish away: they use the litter box.

Anyhow...with a 2 bedroom, 1 bath apartment...the bathroom has to be shared with the cats and it was a bit obvious to our guests that there was a litter box by the toilet. I began to get really concerned about the smell...so I had this genius idea that we should potty train them.

At first I thought..."Yes! They're using it right!" but you really had to be vigilant. It took a lot of effort to constantly clean up after them but I was determined that the training would take no more than 6 months. Link seemed to respond really well to the training and had no problem doing his business (yes that picture is of him doing #2...hence his "meh" expression), but it was hard to go to the next level with Zelda making so many mistakes. How did we know that she messed up? We caught her urinating on the couch a few times...and cat urine's concentrated...so the smell's very pungent. After two to three months of constantly washing cushions and gallons of Febreze, we converted back to the traditional kitty litter box but it didn't solve the odor problem one bit.

Most would think, "Oh, just get an air freshener," and I had one plugged in for weeks straight. The bathroom isn't roomy and the odor would get into the towels. The plug-ins only covered the underlying smell; The kind of smell that'd cause you to say..."Hey...it smells like ocean breeze, but...something smells funny still...what is it?"

So what next? Now that my couch smells like wonderful cat urine and the bathroom problem hasn't been solved, what other options do I have? I started researching information on air purifiers and found that carbon filters were pretty efficient at trapping odors.

Now, most people would go out to Walmart or something to find an air purifier, but their products usually aren't industrial grade. If you had your whole couch soaked in cat urine and your living space was condensed to a mere 900 ft...what could work? I borrowed my mother's ionized filter for awhile thinking that it'd do the job. It clearly helped with the danger and my cat-allergic friends were able to spend the night with no problems, but it didn't do anything for the smell. After I returned my mother's filter, I found out that ionized products can harm the environment and it doesn't feel all that great doing that.

I stayed in this limbo of washing cushions and spraying Frebreze every day. I was a bit too busy to keep it up and I was also looking for a new job. It started to become pretty frustrating and I wanted a solution, but didn't know much about investing in an air purifier. But thankfully, I was hired to an online company that researches and markets air purifiers. (Pure coincidence.)

At first, I was reluctant to shell out more than $100 for an air purifier. Most air purifiers from home retail stores cost around $100. But the biggest weakness to these cheaper models is that they're usually not dependable. I remember getting a wireless USB adapter from one of those stores and I had problems with the product after a week. My rule of thumb is: buy from the people who know it best...it'll save you the headache of having to replace/repair/exchange a poor product. I figured that it wouldn't be a bad idea to try out and invest in some high-quality products that I actually need at home.

So at the moment...I'm going to select an air purifier for my home, but I'm not sure on which one to get. I obviously want to have a bit of research done before I spend my money. I do know that there are a few specifications, though:

• something small and compact, not something the cats can tackle down
  
• has a washable filter or a cost-efficient filter
  
• under $300, lightweight (under 50 lbs.)
  
• has a design that compliments my home decor
  
• carbon filter (apparently these are the best for odors)
• relatively quiet (I already have computers, the cats' water filter, and machines buzzing around)
  

Breathe Better, Live Longer

It is no surprise that air pollution and life expectancy can be related. For ages we have heard the dangers of smoking cigarettes and second hand smoke, but anyone in an urban environment tell you the immediate difference in their mental and physical health by breathing unpolluted air. Now, a recent study conducted by both Brigham Young University and the Harvard School of Public Health have confirmed what many have suspect; there is a direct correlation between air quality and life length.

Using statics between 1980 and 2000 scientists have discovered that an extra 2.72 years of life can be attributed to air quality. Poor air quality worsens lung and hearts diseases causing a shorter lifespan. Statistics taken in the UK show an average reduced lifespan of 8 months due to air pollution, even with an increase in quality over the last 8 years. Scientists can project that by meeting stricter emission targets they can reduce this number by half. This study does not factor smoking, migration and wealth. By eliminating these issues this number is more honest, but also scarier as well.

So how exactly to do they measure pollution and the effects it has on residents then? Scientists measured tiny particles of dirt with a diameter of one-twentieth of the width of a human hair. These particles then travel deeply into the lungs with each breathe taken and have been linked with the worsening of asthma and heart disease. Cities that managed to show a significant increase in clean air yielded an average of ten more months in life expectancy. With every decrease of 10 micrograms of pollution one can expect an average of 10 months added to the lifespan of its residents. To help put the measurement in perspective cities like Pittsburgh and Buffalo have 14 micrograms per cubic meter.

So what are some solutions to this problem if you live in a highly polluted area? Use products that are energy efficient. Drive a vehicle with a cleaner engine and low emission rate. While you are doing your part, it is doubtful that you alone can reduce pollution outside. However, when you are in indoors, you are in control and can protect yourself with an efficient air purifier.



The Airgle 750

The Airgle 750 air purifier boasts superior filtration power and will help you breathe easier. This air purifier has the highest Clean Air Delivery rate of 159 air purifiers. It boasts a whopping 12 step filtration process that works to clean air better then other air purifiers. It has four pre-filters, 4 HEPA filters, 2 carbon filters and 2 high air flow filters with antimicrobial agents for the cleanest, healthiest air breathable. It is emits no ozone with so it will never negatively effect the air quality.

It is extremely easy to use, with its LCD control panel that lets you adjust the time and speed and alerts you when a filter needs to be replaced. The light sensor switches the unit to silent whenever the room gets dark. It is manufactured from durable materials and has easy glide heavy duty casters that let you easily move the unit from room to room. The Airgle 750 is a great way to keep you and your family healthy despite whatever the pollution level might be outside.

Indoor Air Can Be Worse Then Outdoor Air For Children who Sufferer From Asthma

For years, the conventional theory has been that if you are inside your should be free from common allergy and asthma triggers like pollen or pollution. Researchers are now discovering that depending on where you live, indoor pollution can be much worse then outdoor air pollution. Right now, they are trying to educate the public on proper pollution prevention techniques and have a large goal of trying to cut children who suffer from asthma down by 50% by 2012.

While parents have always known that polluted air can bring on asthma attacks, they didn't know how severe the damage that can occur within their homes can be. This is especially true with children who suffer from breathing problems and live within the inner city. Even in their house they are subjected to cigarette smoke, dust mites, mold and even smells that come from cooking with a variety of herbs and spices all of which can trigger an attack.

There is a direct correlation between the air that children breathe at home and the hundreds of thousands of emergency room visits in the U.S. every year. After this study, done by John Hopkins researchers, was released many health care professionals made it their point to educate the public about the dangers of indoor air pollution as an attempt to greatly reduce the amount of child asthma sufferers.

Right now, as many as one in five Baltimore children suffer from asthma, and is the most common disease among kids. The number is disproportionate as a large majority of these kids are inner-city youth. This number has increased greatly over the last twenty years. Unfortunately there is no set specific reason for this increase yet doctors are continuously looking for an answer.

While doctors have known for years that there are always hidden dangers in the air we breathe, this is the first study to directly connect indoor air with asthma. For years, many believed that the simple act of keeping your kids inside during bad pollution days, sweeping the floor and using plug in air fresheners was a good way to keep your family safe and asthma risks down. But unfortunately these misconceptions often do more harm then good. When you sweep you are only kicking up stagnant dust making it easier for inhalation. Air fresheners have been shown to have side effects on young children who have trouble breathing, and the simple act of keeping them inside could be very harmful if your house or apartment does not have proper ventilation.

When trying to keep your house clean, there is a good chance you are making things worse. Air borne insecticides used to prevent mice and cockroaches have a high history of inducing asthma attacks. Also chemicals found in older homes that come from old plaster and wood are beginning to surface as other sources for asthma attacks.

The problem researchers are finding in their Baltimore movement for better asthma prevention is that you begin to encroach on individual rights when trying to educate and change indoor air quality health. This is especially problematic when you discover that for every 10 microgram-per-cubic-meter increase in indoor coarse air particle pollution there was a 6 percent increase in the number of days of coughing, wheezing and chest tightness. This results in a 7 percent increase in limited speech and a 4 percent increase in the number of days rescue medication was needed. Perhaps, the biggest problem is that there is no set standard for levels of indoor air pollution set by the EPA like there is for the outdoors. This, results in more kids staying inside on "bad days" even if inside is worse.

The one thing all researchers recommend is an item with a HEPA filter. This could be on an air purifier or a vacuum cleaner. Either way, it is a very effectual way to eliminate airborne impurities.

What we recommend:



On that note, we recommend the Electrolux EL491A oxygen PlasmawWave HEPA air purifier, in white sleep mode features multiple levels of air filtration. It begins with a pre-filter that catches all the large pieces of debris so that the air purifier can do its job better. The carbon filter eliminates smells without using any harsh chemicals. The true HEPA filter is a great way to eliminate allergens and asthma triggers as it filters, 99.97% of dust, debris, dander and dirt all the way down to 0.3 microns.

The EL491a operates silently and is energy star certified to keep your energy bill low. There is a sleep mode to keep it running smoothly even when you wish to sleep. There are also odor sensors to automatically adjust performance to the level needed. It features five fan speeds and PlasmaWave technology for added power.

February is National Care About Your Indoor Air Month

This February marks the second annual "National Care About Your Indoor Air" month. The National Parent Teacher Organization and the Healthy House Institute have partnered together to bring about a better understanding of the importance of indoor air quality. The purpose is to help educate consumers about common misconceptions and the importance of having clean and pure air within schools, offices and homes.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency states that indoor air pollution can be between two and five times higher in levels of pollution then outside. In fact, some cases have shown that pollution is almost 100 times higher than outside air. This is such a concern that the EPA ranks poor indoor air quality among the top five risks to public health, especially sine one half of the nations schools have problems linked to indoor air quality.

This month is important because it hopes to clear up some prevalent wrong ideas about indoor air quality. Most consumers believe that a clean home creates clean air, but this is simply not true as airborne particulates like dust, smoke and pet dander have a tendency to fester even in the cleanest of homes. This is because these allergens and impurities are invisible to the naked eye, and by sealing the home to conserve energy they destroy any chance of natural circulation making these pollutants a bigger problem.

Other types of purification (water, hand sanitizer) is big among most households, yet many are not doing anything about the air. Purified water and hand sanitizers do nothing to help the air quality that you are breathing. Air purifiers with HEPA technology are the best way to help eliminate up to 99.97% of these impurities. Some air purifiers even eliminate bacteria and viruses from the air itself. Air purifiers also help circulate the air, thereby reducing airborne allergens and stale air.

Consumers should purchase an air purifier for rooms where they spend the most time, to get the best results. While poor air quality tends to effect children, the elderly, the chronically ill and those affected by asthma and allergies get affected the worse, even healthy adults are not immune to the effects of polluted air. Anyone can quickly succumb to irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat or develop headaches, dizziness and fatigue from breathing poor or contaminated air.

The Healthy House Institute has plenty of online resources to help you create a better, safer indoor environment that is defiantly worth checking out. Trusted online stores also have plenty of options and information to help you make an informed decision as to what air purifier you should purchase. Celebrate "National Care About Your Indoor Air" month by looking into air purifiers for you and your family.

New Discoveries in Air Purification Could Keep Indoor Air Flu-Free

Scientists in Japan may have developed a new form of photocatalyst filtration that could keep indoor air influenza free. This new photocatalyst filter reacts to visible light which greatly raises its purification properties. This photochemical formula is expected to be applied to air purification systems to help stop the flu virus. It should be commercially applicable in three years.

Before now, chemical photocatalysts just used a grounding of titanium oxide that never reacted to light indoors. This new filter produces better results under indoor light. Currently photocatalyst filters breakdown when exposed to sunlight break down organic contamination.

To get better results from visible light, that has a longer wavelength then UV, this team of researchers used copper ions and attached them to the surface of tungsten oxide molecules. There is a 16 times increase in purification after using this process. There are plans to take this technology more viable by using a cheaper titanium oxide in the future. This new technology is especially powerful against airborne viruses like the flu.

Recommendation:



While this new filtration technology isn't available yet, one should try looking at the Airsopure S980 for a powerful purifier. This air purifier offers multiple levels of filtration. It boasts True HEPA grade filters, a carbon odor removing stage, and an incredible design layout that gives you complete control. It's HEPA filter removes 99.97% of airborne particles, including mold, spores, dust, dander and allergens. The next layer of activated carbon virtually eliminates all odors in the room. Its photocatalytic oxidation technology provides great purification. The high grade pre-filter with active carbon absorbs odors and toxic gases and the UV-C lamp is effective at eliminating bacteria and viruses smaller then 0.3 microns.

Significant studies have shown that 90% of the bacteria and viruses are eliminated in the first pass when using the Airsopure S980. The Photo-Catalytic Oxidation (PCO) chamber provides 10,000 times the ultra violet intensity of comparable sunlight, which will break the chemical chain of Volitile Organic Compounds (VOC) and turn them into water and harmless gases. The Airsopure is a great way to keep your air clean and germ free.

Austin Air Pet Machine HEPA Air Purifier - A Cure to Presidential Woes?

With the new president coming into office everyone is asking one thing, what kind of dog will he get? Due to his daughters being allergic to certain breeds his options seem narrowed. But what if there was some way he could pick any breed and curb his daughter's allergies.

You see, its not the pet hair that causes allergies it’s the constant shedding of fluids and dander from old skin cells that triggers symptoms. This dander can cause runny noses and eyes, sneezing, rashes and other undesirable effects that have become associated with allergies. All these droppings are a starting point for mold, fungi and bacteria.

While this may same unbeatable there are easy solutions. Air purifiers for pets combine multiple filtration techniques to let you breathe easier. Activated carbon, HEPA, ionization and UV light are all ideal to help remove these problems. In fact most of these filters can eliminate dander by 99.97 down to the .3 micron level. UV lamps also provide a way to stop mold or bacteria that are left in the air.

What We Recommend



The Austin Air Pet Machine HEPA air purifier is the perfect way to protect loved ones from pet induced allergies. Covering over 250 cubic feet of air per minute, Austin Air uses a unique 360 degree intake system. The purifier then uses four different filter to eliminate dog dander, cat allergens, bird feather dust, pet odors and all the germs, bacteria and gasses that go with them. There are three separate speeds with the highest being 400 CFM. It is extremely compact and comes with a choice of four neutral color finishes so that you can place it any room.

The HEPA filter is medical grade allowing for the finest filtration power possible. There is 60 square feel of HEPA filter so that you know you will be getting the best filtration possible. The Pet Machine also uses 15 pound specialty blend of carbons and Zeolite to maximize the absorption of ammonia, sulfuric acid and other odors. The outer pre-filters are designed to be vacuumed from the outside to save you money on constantly having to buy replacement filters. Plus, it comes with a five year manufacturer’s warranty on all parts and labor in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

The Austin Air Pet Machine HEPA air purifier is a comprehensive solution to your pet allergy problems. Powerful, yet compact this purifier has the power to easily get the job done. In fact, rather then spending so much time looking for a hypo-allergenic dog, President Elect Barack Obama should just purchase this powerful purifier. Then, the only vetting for the dog he needs to do, would be for an actual veterinarian.

Germ Guardian Sanitizers Now at Air Purifier Home

Air Purifier Home is proud to now carry the Germ Guardian brand of sanitizers and air purifiers. Germ Guardian is on the cutting edge of home sanitation products. They have harnessed the power of UV-C light to create new options for air and surface purification. All Germ Guardian products offer heavy duty purification power that will keep friends and family safe and healthy. All their products have passed through rigorous testing from multiple third party testers, including the Harvard School of Public Health.

The Power of UV-C

UV-C is a magnetic waveform with a distinct frequency that helps eliminate 99.9% of germs. It uses its 253.7 wavelength to cause cell death and destroy specific DNA that allows for disease replication. By deactivating this DNA in dust mites, bacteria, viruses and other pathogens, you are eliminating their ability to multiply and cause disease. This works extremely effectively on all surfaces. Hospitals use UV-C light with a HEPA filter. This combination has been proven to provide the ultimate in air purification and sanitation.

Thoroughly Tested

Germ Guardian is always striving to be the best. Because of this, they hire multiple third party testing groups to not only validate their results but to show consumers that they are getting products that are leading the market in satisfation and results. Numerous well known agencies have tested and verified their results, including the prestigious Harvard School of Public Health.

Portable

Germ Guardian recognizes that germs are everywhere; in fact you probably need more protection when outside of your own house then in it. Hotel phones are a great example of how easily germs can be transferred. When using a phone hotel, you do not know how often or if they have ever been cleaned. Your hand, ear and mouth come within close contact making the transference of germs very easy. Many of Germ Guardian's products are lightweight and portable allowing you to get comprehensive protection and sanitation power wherever you may be.

Featured Products:

Germ Guardian AC6000 6-Stage Air Purifier

For comprehensive air purification and sanitation one can do no better then the Germ Guardian AC6000 6-stage air purifier. Multiple speeds, timer settings, a remote control and whisper quiet operation are just some of the features that come with this powerful machine. But at its core are its six stages of filtration. The process begins with a pre-filter that quickly removes all particles to large for the filtration process thereby keeping the filter and your air in pristine condition. The charcoal filter removes noxious odors and the PCO filter helps destroy microorganisms. But its most powerful combination is the HEPA filter and UV light. This filtration process is used in most hospitals. HEPA filtration removes 99.97% of particles like dust, dirt, dander and bacteria down to the 0.3 micron level. The UV light works in conjunction to remove diseases and germs thereby purifing and sterilizing your air. As if this weren’t enough the AC6000 also has the option of an ionizer that adds to the purification process, for a more thorough cleaning.

Germ Guardian LW18 UV-C Sanitizer Wand

The Germ Guardian LW18 UV-C sanitizer wand is a great example of the portable sterilization power of Germ Guardian. Able to be taken anywhere it is wireless and only weighs one pound. It uses its UV-C light to kill up to 99% of bacteria and viruses. This item is great for the home and when traveling. The bulb last for 76 years so you know you are getting the most out of it. All you have to do is hold the wand over an object for about 20 seconds at a distance of 2 inches and you instantly get a sanitized surface. This is great for toilets, showers, phones, sheets or just about anywhere you feel you need comprehensive protection. Best of all UV-C light is natural, thereby eliminating chemicals and their side effects from the equation.

Coway Air Purifiers Now at Air Purifier Home

Air Purifier Home is proud to carry the Coway brand of air purifiers. Established in 1989, Coway has been creating better living products for nearly 20 years. Since their inception they have been making giant advancements in technology and picking up a steady stream of awards for their products along the way. Originally founded in Korea, one in four citizens now own a Coway water purifier system and one in ten have an air purifier. They have developed an advanced and unique business structure that focus's purely on the consumers. This system has since been imitated but never duplicated. In 2007, Coway opened up their first U.S. branch in Los Angles and has been making waves ever since. They chose the name Coway because it means "A road for all to go together" that stands for the idea that the employees, shareholders and customers all grow together and extend throughout society.

Coway's R&D

Coway has a truly unique R&D program that is devoted to making significant strides in healthier living products. They are constantly devoting time to developing better products that are smaller and work better then competitors. Their first R&D center was created in 1993 with two more developed later, each one specializing in their own individual fields. They are the Environment and Technology Institute, Quality Management Institute and Water Analysis and Research Center. Coway's Water Analysis and Research Center is so well regarded that the Korean government has designated them the official water quality testing institution of the country, which is the first time a private company has ever garnered such an honor.

Advanced Filtration Technology

What really sets Coway air purifiers apart from the competition is their multi-filtration technology. All of their air purifiers use at least four different filter types of filtration, each one of them specialized for a specific purpose. Some of the more common filters found on most models is the prefilter, which stops large pieces of debris and bacteria, a medium filter that stops any other large to medium impurities, a true HEPA filter that stops 99.97% of dust, dander, debris and bacteria all the way down to 0.3 microns and a deodorization filter to eliminate odors.

Coway has also developed their own exclusive filters that stop impurities other filters just can't handle. For instance their New House Filters eliminates toxic formaldehyde and VOC's found in new houses while their Child Filter filters influenza and other virus's that children are more susceptible to. There are over ten of these custom filters for you to chose from depending on what air purifier you choose, giving you plenty of options.

Custom Features

Coway creates a wide variety of user friendly, custom features that are made for efficiency and your convenience. Most purifies come with a unique air pollution indicator. This indicator works great as it uses a color coordination system to let you constantly know the level of air purity in the room at that exact moment.

Another thing Coway is well known for is their unique designs. Each purifier is designed to be featured in the house and never hidden away. They have won numerous awards, like the iF design award and the Korean good design award. You will be impressed with the variety of styles between each unit and will easily find one that fits you best.

Featured Air Purifiers:

The Coway AP-1005AH Room Air Purifier is a great example of a Coway air purifier. It is extremely petite for an air purifier of its size and features five stages of filtration. These include a prefilter, medium filter, HEPA filter, Ag allershield filter and a deodorization filter. It can also generate anions that let you enjoy fresher air and the purity level indicator is in the shape of a decorative flower petal for easy purity detection. Plus the air purifier will automatically run itself at full capacity whenever air purity is really bad. The included remote control makes operation extremely easy.



The Coway AP-1008DH Air Purifier is the winner of some of the world's most prestigious design awards. It earned these honors by sporting a modern, attractive design with premium leather finish and striking metal accents that can compliment any room. It has a four-stage purification system that uses: a prefilter a Multi-Care filter, a deodorization filter and a true HEPA filter. It uses a BLDC motor and fan that can purify up to 355 square feet. Its advanced digital controls constantly monitor the air purity level and automatically adjust its settings according to it's airborne contaminant levels. Plus when the lights are off it automatically goes into sleep mode.