When trying to improve the indoor air quality in your home, you may consider installing an air cleaner or air purifier. These devices filter unwanted contaminants out of your home’s air, allowing you to breathe easier and healthier air. But how do you know what the difference is between air cleaners and air purifiers, and which you should install in your home?
If you want to know how to compare air purifiers to air cleaners, you’ve come to the right place. Take a look at the guide below, and you’ll be able to assess whether an air purifier or an air cleaner is right for your home.
Air Cleaner vs. Air Purifier
It’s important to have your home professionally inspected and tested so you can find the main cause of your low air quality. By learning what factors are affecting your home, you can then make the right choice between an air cleaner and an air purifier.
While both of these devices clean your air and improve your indoor air quality, they operate differently and target various contaminants.
What Are Air Cleaners?
Air cleaners are devices that remove unwanted particles from the air, such as dust, pollen, and other potential irritants. These units play a crucial role in creating a healthier and more comfortable indoor environment by filtering out contaminants and making the air you breathe cleaner and fresher.
How Do Air Cleaners Work?
Air cleaners are built directly into your HVAC system and pass air through a built-in air filter to remove particles. They are installed between the air return duct and the furnace or air conditioner so that all air flowing in your home’s ductwork is cleaned.
Air cleaners also help prolong the life of your heating and cooling systems, and prevent dust, dirt, and other debris from building up inside the units.
What Are Air Purifiers?
While air purifiers are similar to an air cleaner, they are not the same thing. While both devices remove unwanted particles from your home’s air, the way they operate and the contaminants they target are different. That’s why you should consult an HVAC professional to help you install the right unit.
How Do Air Purifiers Work?
Air purifiers don’t rely on a built-in screen or filter like an air cleaner. Instead, air purifiers zap pollutants using UV germicidal light. This process creates cleaner and healthier air for your and your family’s home. This method also improves the efficiency of your heating and cooling systems.
An added bonus is that these appliances operate silently, so they won’t bother you or your family with extra noise.
What Do Air Cleaners and Air Purifiers Filter?
Having an air cleaner or an air purifier built into your HVAC system will filter out various pollutants, such as:
- Pet Dander
- Tobacco Smoke
- Pollen
- Dust Mites
- Dust
- Soil
- Ash
- Mold
- Mildew
- Fungus
Benefits of Installing an Air Cleaner or an Air Purifier
Both air cleaners and air purifiers contribute to a healthier living environment and can help relieve the symptoms of common issues like:
- Allergies: By removing allergens like dust, pollen, and pet dander from the air, they reduce the triggers for allergy symptoms.
- Eczema: Cleaner air can reduce skin irritation and itchiness associated with eczema, helping to alleviate discomfort.
- Asthma: Both devices work to minimize asthma triggers such as airborne particles and allergens, supporting better respiratory health.
- Dry Throat: Cleaner air with balanced humidity levels can help prevent dry throat and associated discomfort.
- Itchy Skin: Improved air quality can reduce skin dryness and itching, promoting overall skin comfort and health.
Should I Buy an Air Purifier or an Air Cleaner?
To truly determine which device is better for your home, you should speak to an experienced HVAC technician. These professionals will test your home’s air quality, locate any and all contaminants inhabiting the air, and help you devise the best solution.
Whether you have small or large particles irritating you, our team at GAC Services will help you choose the right air purifier or air cleaner for your HVAC system in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Contact us today by calling our main office at (301) 685-0544 and let us know how we can help improve your home’s indoor air quality.
