When it comes to keeping your home’s indoor air quality at its best, you may have heard of both air cleaners and air purifiers. These terms might seem like they mean the same thing, but there are some key differences between the two.
In this blog, Dixie Electric, Plumbing & Air will break down what each of these devices does, how they work, and why one might be better for your home than the other. Let’s dive into the world of air cleaners and air purifiers, so you can make the best choice for your family’s health.
Discover the difference between air cleaners and air purifiers to improve your indoor air quality with Dixie Electric, Plumbing & Air in Montgomery, Auburn-Opelika, and Columbus.
What is an Air Cleaner?
An air cleaner is a device designed to remove larger particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander from the air in your home. These particles are often the ones that cause allergies or make your home feel dusty. Air cleaners typically use filters, such as HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, to trap these particles and prevent them from circulating in your home.
Air cleaners can be either portable units that you place in certain rooms, or they can be built directly into your HVAC system. The main goal of an air cleaner is to improve indoor air quality by getting rid of the particles that float around and settle on your furniture, floors, and even your lungs.
What Does an Air Purifier Do?
While an air cleaner removes larger particles, an air purifier takes things a step further. Air purifiers not only filter out dust and allergens, but they also target microscopic particles, bacteria, viruses, and harmful gasses. Some air purifiers use UV light or ionization to neutralize or destroy these smaller particles.
Air purifiers are especially helpful if someone in your home has asthma or respiratory issues, as they can eliminate pollutants that air cleaners might miss. They work to keep your indoor air quality high by making sure that the air you breathe is as clean and safe as possible, not just free of dust and pollen.
How Do They Work?
Air Cleaners:
Air cleaners rely on filters to trap airborne particles. Most air cleaners use HEPA filters, which are great at capturing particles as small as 0.3 microns. Some advanced air cleaners also have pre-filters to catch larger particles before they reach the HEPA filter. This helps extend the life of the filter and improves the overall efficiency of the unit.
Air Purifiers:
Air purifiers, on the other hand, use a variety of technologies. Some models combine filters with UV light to kill germs and bacteria. Others use ionizers, which charge particles, so they stick to surfaces or are drawn to the purifier itself. Some even use activated carbon filters to absorb harmful chemicals and gasses.
Which One Is Right for Your Home?
Now that you know the difference between air cleaners and air purifiers, how do you decide which is best for your home? It really depends on your specific needs.
If you’re mainly concerned with dust, pet dander, or pollen in your home, an air cleaner may be all you need. These devices are great for general indoor air quality improvement and can help with allergies.
However, if you want to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and harmful gasses as well, then an air purifier is the better option. This is especially true if anyone in your household suffers from respiratory issues or if you want extra protection during flu season.
The Benefits of Improving Indoor Air Quality
Whether you choose an air cleaner or an air purifier, improving your indoor air quality can make a big difference in your home. You’ll likely notice fewer allergy symptoms, less dust buildup, and overall fresher air. Both devices are great investments for creating a healthier living environment, and with so many options available, there’s a solution for every home.
Call Dixie Electric, Plumbing & Air Today!
At Dixie Electric, Plumbing & Air, we’ve been helping families in Montgomery, Auburn-Opelika, and Columbus breathe easier since 1908. If you’re interested in learning more about air cleaners or air purifiers, or if you need help deciding which one is right for your home, give Dixie a call! We’re here to provide top-notch products and services to ensure your home is as comfortable and healthy as possible.
