Air Purifiers vs Air Cleaners: What are the Differences?

Are you thinking of buying a machine that will help you improve your indoor air? Maybe you are trying to decide whether to purchase an air purifier or an air cleaner machine. Both items can help enhance your indoor air. Of course, your specific needs determine which product is the best for you. In this article, Air Purifiers vs. Air Cleaners: What are the Differences?, we outline what makes each of them different to help you choose the one that is best for you.

air purifier vs air cleaner

 

The truth is that air purifiers and air cleaners work in similar ways. They are used to eliminate contaminants in your home air. Because of their similar functions, it is difficult to differentiate both machines. To help distinguish them, we must first understand the kind of pollutants that they trap.

Air Purifier vs. Air Cleaner: Contaminants

Both air cleaners and air purifiers can catch some of the smallest contaminants in the air. Both products can help get rid of cigarette smoke as well as plant spores and pollen.

Also, if you have pets, these products can help. They can help reduce pet dander and odors in your home. Those who suffer from pet allergies may benefit from one of these devices. They can also help reduce bacteria and germs, making your home safer for children.

Air purifiers and air cleaners may help improve the quality of sleep in your home. They can also help reduce odors associated with different foods.

Both air cleaners and purifiers use filters. They each have at least two filters. You can differentiate which is an air purifier and which is an air cleaner based on the filter concentration.

Types of Air Filters

air purifier filters

Carbon filters are the first type, which works together with a HEPA filter to achieve cleaner air. The carbon filters react with chemicals and neutralize them.

The second filter is the ion and ozone filter. Most people see it as a filter even though it has the similar function of preventing air dust. This one cannot filter pollutants.

The third type is the electrostatic. Like the ion and ozone filters, it is unable to filter contaminants. This one adds the ozone to remove the contaminants from the air. Products with this type of filter may not be suited for homes with people with respiratory problems.

The fourth kind is the charge media. This works similarly to the electrostatic filter. It uses the filter without a plate. You will have to change the charge media regularly. However, this type of filter can collect the tiniest microbes.

The pre-filter is the fifth type. Air cleaners and air purifiers rarely use this one because they are very large.

Last but not least is the HEPA filter. This is a high-quality filter. It has the power to clean up to 99.9 percent of indoor dust. This type of filter is best suited for larger spaces.

Types of Air Purifiers

Air purifiers are divided into three groups. The first one is the whole house air purifier. These models are more expensive and usually require professional installation. They are not as portable as some other models.

The whole air type is the second one. They are convenient and inexpensive. Anyone can use this type of air purifier because they are easy to use.

The last is the portable air purifier. These units are lightweight, offer many features, and are portable. However, they are usually only suited for single-room use.

In Summary

After reading this article, we hope you understand the differences between air purifiers and air cleaners. Be sure to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each one before making a decision.