A modern apartment does not experience a shortage of domestic “dust generators”; many household items make their “feasible” contribution, from plush toys to books. In addition to “generators,” there are also always plenty of devices and things in the house that attract this dust. A desktop computer, for example, accumulates a monstrous amount of dust inside in a short period of time, and even if you clean it once a month, this is still not enough.
How a typical photocatalytic air purifier works using the Aircomfort/AIC model as an example
To reduce the amount of dust, various electronic devices have been invented that draw this dust into themselves in one way or another. Then the dust can be washed off, cleaned, thrown away with a filter... In general, today we will talk about dust collectors, they are also air purifiers. Go!
Panasonic F‑VXR50R‑K
A climate complex that can not only purify the air, but also ionize and humidify it. The device is equipped with a composite HEPA filter that traps dust particles, wool, pollen, bacteria, viruses and other allergens. In addition to it, deodorizing and moisturizing filters are installed inside. The service life of each of them is about 10 years.
The device is capable of processing up to 306 m³/h of air and is suitable for rooms up to 40 m². Panasonic F‑VXR50R‑K automatically assesses the microclimate and maintains the most comfortable conditions. The cleaner also eliminates odors, harmful chemicals and cigarette smoke.
In humidification mode, the device sprays up to 500 ml of water per hour. Using a light sensor, the device detects the onset of night and reduces the noise level to a minimum.
Price: 36,999 rubles.
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No. 6 - Carry out quartzing
No viruses will survive under the rays of a quartz lamp.
Quartz lamps are used to purify air and surfaces in medical institutions. No viral organisms are able to survive under their rays. And if you have the opportunity to install such a lamp at home, then purchase it and turn it on periodically. She needs to irradiate the room for at least 20 minutes to get a good result.
Important! You cannot be inside the room during quartzing! So this air purification option is not the best for owners of one-room apartments and studios. You will have to leave the apartment to carry out quartzing.
Philips AC2887
The Philips air purifier supports three automatic modes: standard cleaning, allergen filtration, bacteria and virus capture. Inside there is a multi-level system with a mesh for pre-cleaning, as well as HEPA and carbon filters. The device effectively removes harmful particles PM2.5 and other smaller particles, and also traps volatile organic compounds and odors.
The device evaluates air purity in real time and processes up to 344 m³/h. The maximum room area for Philips AC2887 is 79 m².
Price: 29,990 rubles.
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Filtration system JET AFS-1000
The Jet ASF-1000 device has found its application in air purification in various industrial premises, which are contaminated with particles of paints and varnishes that form a suspension or dust. It provides two-stage filtration and two basic operating modes of the device: continuous and programmable.
The standard set includes an external electrostatic filter, which is distinguished by its high efficiency. It is distinguished by its ability to retain most of the contaminants. Only the smallest fraction particles remain in the main filter - less than 5 microns. The external electrostatic filter can be replaced with an optional carbon filter, which is capable of removing both mechanical and some chemical pollutants, while also cleaning the air from odors.
Sharp KCD61RW
Sharp's floor-standing air purifier uses Plasmacluster technology to ionize and purify the air. It eliminates bacteria, fungi, allergens, viruses and other harmful particles. At the same time, it saturates the air with ions to increase filtration efficiency, eliminates static electricity and unpleasant odors.
KCD61RW also humidifies the air using cold evaporation, without depositing deposits on furniture and walls. The device analyzes the state of the microclimate in the room and automatically adjusts the operating mode. The cleaning level is displayed on a color indicator. The maximum area of the room to be treated is 48 m².
Price: 28,290 rubles.
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Traditional humidifiers: “blow” moisture into the room
Such devices use the principle of natural humidification. A tray equipped with mesh cartridges is inserted into the device body. Water coming from a reservoir inside the device wets the cartridges. When the built-in fan is turned on, an air flow passes through the wet cartridges, transferring moisture into the environment.
Traditional humidifiers partially perform the functions of air washing, since during their operation some of the dust from the room atmosphere settles in water. Another advantage is the natural regulation of humidity in the room - even if you forget to turn off the device, the humidity will not rise above normal levels. With this evaporation method, the air simply does not absorb excess moisture.
This device also has disadvantages - the noise of the fan during operation, as well as the need to clean and disinfect the trays. If this is not done, plaque will constantly form on them - colonies of bacteria for which humidity and heat are ideal conditions for reproduction.
Venta LW15 Comfort plus
The air washer is suitable for rooms up to 35 m². The device works as a purifier and humidifier, effectively eliminating most allergens, including small pollen and saprophytic mites.
The device maintains humidity at a given level automatically using a hygrometer. The model uses the cold evaporation method, in which a white coating does not appear on furniture and walls. For humidification, you can use ordinary tap water.
All settings are displayed on the display provided in the design. In night mode, the fan runs at minimum speed and the screen brightness is dimmed.
Price: 21,990 rubles.
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Filtration system JET AFS-400
The Jet AFS-400 air filtration system has a continuous and programmable mode, which is used for cleaning during non-working periods. In this case, the power and timer are set using the remote control. After the program is completed, the system will turn off. The installation is going to be at a height of at least two meters from the floor on a support that can withstand 40 kg of static load. It also has loops for hanging it from the ceiling.
This air filtration system is intended for a workshop, garage and other premises where contamination occurs with suspension or dust from particles of paint and varnish materials. The highest productivity corresponds to a room of approximately 120 cubic meters. meters. In the event that an even larger space needs to be cleaned, experts advise placing the AFS-400 near sources of contamination. Such measures will help improve the efficiency of dust removal.
The Jet AFS-400 air filtration system has a number of features, these are:
- three performance modes and shutdown timer settings;
- two-stage filtration;
- remote control with timer.
Dyson BP01 Pure Cool Me
An air purifier with a HEPA filter will get rid of unpleasant odors, bacteria, microscopic dust particles and various allergens. The dome of the device is made in the form of a sphere. Air flows move along it and collide in the center, forming one narrowly directed flow of high speed. The device is suitable for rooms up to 10 m².
You can adjust the direction of the airflow by turning the dome in the desired direction or activate the mode of automatic rotation of the body by 70°. To clean the air at a certain time, a switch-on timer is provided.
Price: 19,990 rubles.
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Which air purifier is better to buy for an apartment or house?
When choosing an air purifier, pay attention to the design area and performance. The first parameter is important so that the device can really cope with the available volume. If the purifier is designed for an area of 20 m², and it is used on 40 m², then the investment will not be justified. Productivity is measured in m³ of air passed through the filter per hour. The higher the number, the faster the composition will be updated and users will sooner feel the effect.
The dimensions of the purifier affect the installation method (table or floor), as well as the space it takes up. In a large room this is not important, but in the case of a nursery, kitchen or living room you should be more careful when choosing. Buyers also need to know the types of purifiers based on their operating principle and possible functions.
Types of Air Purifiers
There are two categories of cleaners: dry and wet. There are several subtypes of the implementation method. Let's look at each one to understand the differences and advantages of this or that product.
Air washers
Here the principle of operation is to draw air inside the case with a fan, after which the flow hits a drum consisting of disks. They are partially submerged in a pan of water. As air passes through, the discs rotate and wash away the adhering dust, which is why such devices are also called air washers. The output is a clean air stream that has received natural humidification. As you work, the liquid in the bath is consumed and needs to be added.
Such installations are easier to maintain - they can be disassembled and washed independently. Other benefits of air washers include:
- low energy consumption 15-400 W/h;
- simple design;
- quiet work.
The price of air washing machines differs due to design differences between models related to fan performance, number of cleaning stages (filter layers), design, functions (display, remote control, timer, thermometer, hygrometer, hygroscope, etc.).
Although some users believe that humidifiers promote the spread of bacteria, they are actually safe as long as you maintain the device regularly.
Air washing device
Cleaners with dry filters
The main task of this category of equipment is to drive air flow under pressure through a multi-stage filter design. They do not affect the humidity level. The principle of operation is to suck in air with a large fan and direct it through the cassette. Inside it may be:
- Coarse filter. Typically a nylon mesh with a particle passage of no more than 1-5 microns. The rigid design is easy to blow with a vacuum cleaner and wash under the tap.
- Fine filter. Made from corrugated material, which automatically increases the absorption area. This also creates static tension when moving and attracts small dust particles. This design helps retain particles of 0.1-1.0 microns.
- NERA. This is a patented filter system with ultra-fine pores. HEPA classes vary from 11 to 14, where a smaller number is better in terms of the quality of dust and allergen retention.
These types of purifiers are more productive than air washers. They have express modes, dirt sensors, remote controls, timers and other functions. But at high power, the noise from the fan increases, which is important to consider when using it at night.
Air purifier device
Both types of cleaners (dry and wet) can be additionally equipped with an ionization function. To do this, there is a grill inside, to which a weak electric current is supplied. This tension creates a natural thunderstorm effect, releasing nitrogen. The indoor air becomes cleaner and more pleasant to breathe. The current also attracts dust particles onto the grille that have escaped the mechanical filters.
Choosing an air purifier depending on the problems being solved
Since everyone’s needs are different, the choice of purifier should be made based on the desired output effect. Here are the common situations in which the following types of appliances are suitable.
1. Fighting excess dust
If a lot of dust accumulates in your home and you have to clean it often, then dry air purifiers with HEPA filters are the best solution. Such a block with tiny pores serves as a reliable barrier in the way, trapping any dust. But if your apartment or house is located near a factory or highway, then you need to be prepared to replace the filter frequently.
It is also worth paying attention to air purifiers with ionization. They help clean the air from dust, binding it into heavier particles that do not fly, but settle on surfaces. This operating principle does not pollute the inside of the filter, which reduces maintenance costs. The health of the home's inhabitants is improving, but you need to be prepared for more frequent cleaning.
2. Allergy to dust
Allergies do not manifest themselves to garbage, but to dust that is invisible to the human eye. Therefore, for effective control you can use:
- Purifiers with HEPA filters. Due to small pores, 99.9% of dust is removed from the air. They are considered the best means for preventing and combating allergies to household dust. When purchasing, pay attention to the HEPA class. It's better if it's 11-12.
- Air washers. Depending on the number of disks and fan power, they can absorb from 80 to 95% of dust. This is a more economical maintenance option that also promotes hydration, which is so beneficial for allergy sufferers.
- Ionizers. Since the design uses a tensioned grid, particles can pass between the bars and return back into the air. The degree of purification here is 80-90%. It is also worth considering how an atmosphere saturated with nitrogen affects the breathing of an allergic person. But in general, this category is quite suitable.
- Photocatalytic. The design uses ultraviolet lamps and a catalyst that kill germs, fungi, bacteria and dust mites. They serve as an additional source of allergies that need to be eliminated, so pay attention to models with UV emitters.
3. Allergy to pet fur
The fur of domestic animals (cats, dogs, hamsters, rabbits, etc.) has a cross-section of 10 microns and is visible to the naked eye. Compared to dust, it is quite heavy and requires cleaners with powerful fans to suck it inside. The important parameter here is not the number of cleaning stages, but productivity. The area of the filter element itself also plays a role - the larger it is, the longer the purifier will last without cleaning itself, otherwise the wool will quickly clog it.
4. Tobacco smoke
If people smoke in the apartment, then carbon filters will be of little help to clean the air, since tobacco smoke needs to be quickly driven through them for adsorption, and this is impossible (it goes up). Air washers don't have time to cope here either. HEPA will be suitable, but will often become clogged with nicotine tar, which will increase the cost of operation.
The most effective here are models with photocatalytic filters and ionizers. It is easier to wash them off the resin, and the electric current will decompose the composition into carbon dioxide and water.
5. Getting rid of unpleasant odors
Most often, eliminating unpleasant odors is required in the kitchen. They can come from your own cooking or from neighbors. In this case, any purifier with a carbon filter will do. The cassette will adsorb odor molecules, attracting them to the coal granules.
A cleaner with photocatalytic action will be more effective. This will not only eliminate unpleasant odors, but also disinfect the air. The most effective means of combating odor are purifiers with ionization, which ozone the composition of the air, oxidizing and breaking down the organic components in it.
Xiaomi Mi Air Purifier Pro
The performance of this floor cleaner is 500 m³/h, it is equipped with a laser particulate detector and an OLED display with a three-color indicator light. The maximum room area for efficient operation of the model is 60 m².
The device circulates air around the room, capturing dust, PM2.5 particles, formaldehyde and other harmful substances. For cleaning, Mi Air Purifier Pro has a primary filtration mesh, an effective HEPA filter and triple carbon. The laser sensor detects contaminants as small as 0.3 micrometers in real time.
You can use the MiHome mobile application to control the purifier. It will help you monitor changes in air characteristics, set a schedule for the device’s operation, and adjust the mode to the area of the room.
Price: 17,962 rubles.
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OXY
The manufacturer of this brand of breathers is a Russian company. The OXY breather line includes three models – OXY, OXY2 and OXY3. These devices are distinguished by their compact size (246*326*125 mm), the ability to operate in “natural” ventilation mode and cost-effectiveness. Other advantages of OXY breathers include the ability to smoothly adjust the air supply speed, as well as the modularity of the equipment - having installed OXY, you can change it at any time to a more functional model, simply paying the difference in the cost of the devices.
Tefal Pure Air NanoCaptur PT3040F0
The filtration air purifier maintains an optimal microclimate in a room up to 12 m². The PT3040F0 uses four levels of filtration to eliminate most allergens. The device will get rid of fine dust and hair, and will also help neutralize unpleasant odors.
The power of the device is adjusted automatically; you can also set the degree of filtration manually. For use at night there is a separate mode with reduced noise level. Maximum productivity - 300 m³/h.
Price: 12,990 rubles.
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#10 – Reduce the amount of household chemicals you use
Use household chemicals less.
Any household chemical is chemical! In most cases, it contains substances hazardous to human health. Cleaning powders, aerosols in various air fresheners and other compositions, of course, can smell nice, but in any case, particles of these substances get into the air, and we inhale them.
Naturally, you cannot completely abandon household chemicals. Many compounds help us disinfect surfaces, clean them of dirt, kill parasites, and so on. But reduce the amount of substances used to a minimum. For example, refuse air fresheners, especially automatic ones. And believe me, the air in your home will become much fresher.
Advice! For those who are desperate and not lazy, we can recommend replacing a number of household chemicals with vinegar, lemon and laundry soap. These substances certainly do not cause as much harm as conventional powders and cleaning products. But using them to clean surfaces is somewhat more difficult.
And yes, hairsprays, all kinds of adhesives, and any substances with strong odors also pollute the air. To make breathing easier, reduce their use to a minimum.
Xiaomi Mi Air Purifier 3
This device is suitable for a room up to 48 m². Air Purifier 3 shows temperature, humidity and PM2.5 levels on a circular OLED display. The productivity of the purifier reaches 400 m³/h. The device can be controlled remotely via the MiHome application.
The model uses a three-stage filtration system. The first stage traps hair, dust and other large particles. In the second, HEPA removes elements as small as one micron. And the activated carbon filter at the third stage absorbs formaldehyde and other organic contaminants contained in the air.
Price: 11,098 rubles.
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Filter replacement frequency
The frequency of replacement depends on the degree of contamination. Modern technology is equipped with indicators that notify the user when the filters need to be changed.
Humidified and purified air is important for every person, therefore some parts in the device should be changed in a timely manner.
Many filters need to be changed once a month. Washing is necessary, but if there is a strong accumulation of dirt inside it, little purified oxygen comes out.
It will not go through the filtration system as expected, bacteria and dust will come back, and in addition they will take some more harmful pathogens with them. Therefore, filters should be replaced when necessary.
Now you know how to choose a humidifier, what to look for, besides the price. Read device reviews to choose the right model.
AIC Airincom XJ‑4100
The air purifier from AIC is equipped with a pre-filter mesh to remove coarse dust, fur and hair. There is also a plasma filter inside, which attracts smoke, fumes and dust particles with an electrostatic charge.
The formaldehyde filter copes with various gases and volatile organic compounds at the molecular level. This model also ionizes the air. The maximum area of the room for processing is 30 m².
Price: 10,299 rubles.
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LG AP151MWA1.AERU
The portable purifier can be used not only at home, but also taken to the country or installed in the car. Its productivity reaches 13 m³/h, which is enough to maintain a favorable microclimate in a small space of about 2 m². The device has two filters: pre-cleaning and air; they capture dust particles and fungal spores.
Using the buttons on the top of the case, you can adjust the fan speed and select one of three operating modes. There are also indicators for the selected power, pollution level and power supply. From your smartphone via Bluetooth you can set up the device and check the remaining filter life.
Price: 9,990 rubles.
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Filtration system AFS-400
The AFS-400 air filtration system is a new product from JET. This option is a budget option. Perfect for a small workshop. As a result of its operation, the indoor air is filtered from dust, including fine dust. If you additionally install a carbon filter, the fumes emanating from paints and varnishes will be perfectly absorbed. This system is small in size, therefore it is highly mobile, as a result it can be used near a source of odor and dust. It is designed for efficient operation in a room of 50 square meters. meters, height - 2.5 m. The standard package includes an electrostatic external and thin internal filter with cleaning up to 1 micron. Using the remote control or touch buttons, you can set one of three operating modes. The set includes hooks for hanging mounting and a timer to delay the system shutdown after 1, 2 or 4 hours.
Boneco P50
This compact purifier eliminates dust, bacteria and tobacco smoke, and also ionizes the air and fills the room with pleasant aromas. It weighs only 300 grams, it is convenient to carry and use not only at home, but also in the car or at the workplace. The model is powered from a cigarette lighter, 220 volt power supply or USB.
Essential oils can be used for aromatization. A single button on the top of the case controls power and fan speed.
Price: 4,190 rubles.
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About dirty air and poor ventilation
Dirty air as a common problem in megacities
If you live in Novosibirsk, then you probably know that the problem of city cleanliness has not bypassed the capital of Siberia. The private sector with its stove heating, car exhaust, smoke from industrial enterprises and thermal power plants. All this actively pollutes the air with carbon and nitrogen monoxide, formaldehyde and other carcinogenic substances.
Poor ventilation is the “disease” of most multi-storey buildings
But air pollution is far from the only problem associated with living in a city apartment, right? Question for you: are you familiar with the phenomenon of poorly functioning apartment ventilation? We confidently believe that the answer is yes – this is a mass phenomenon on a city scale.
70mai Air Purifier Pro
The compact car purifier filters cabin air from volatile organic compounds, bacteria, tobacco smoke, PM2.5 particles, exhaust gases and pollen. It automatically adjusts the operating mode to the level of contamination using a photoelectric sensor. The maximum productivity of the device is 52 m³/h.
To purify the air, filter paper of class H11 is used here. The device is connected to power via a USB port. It can be used not only in the car, but also at home or in the workplace.
Price: 3,944 rubles.
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#8 – Get some indoor plants
Keep live plants in the house
Any green plants consume carbon dioxide for the process of photosynthesis, through which they live. And in return they release pure oxygen into the air. Thus, living vegetation in the house can greatly improve the quality of the air we breathe. It’s not for nothing that trees are called the green lungs of the planet!
Bring home as many green plants as possible, place them on windows and shelves. And then there will always be fresh air in your home.
Important! Green plants, like any other organisms, require care and attention. At a minimum, they need to be watered regularly. It also requires feeding, replanting, tying up and performing a number of other manipulations, which only fan gardeners will be delighted with. Consider whether you can provide the plants with proper care before adding them to your home. As an option, you can buy only the most unpretentious types.