Understanding Common Air Purifier Terms

Air purifiers have become an essential appliance in many households due to the array of benefits they offer in creating a healthier indoor environment. However, the technical terms and specifications can sometimes be confusing for those considering purchasing one. In this post, Stone Heating and Air shares some basic air purifier terms to help you make the right decisions.

HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air)

One term that will typically pop up when getting an HVAC repair is HEPA. HEPA filters trap irritants such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites and tobacco smoke. They capture particles as tiny as 0.3 microns, smaller than a human hair. To meet U.S. standards, they must remove 99.97% of airborne particles. This makes air purifiers with HEPA filters an excellent choice for individuals with allergies or asthma.

Air Quality Index (AQI)

The AQI scale ranges from 0 to 500, with lower values indicating better indoor air quality. Monitoring the AQI will help you determine when to use an air purifier and what type of filter would be most effective. This is especially crucial when you’re getting an air purifier and HVAC replacement.

CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate)

CADR measures the volume of filtered air delivered by an air purifier, and it’s expressed in cubic feet per minute (CFM). The higher the CADR, the faster and more efficient the purifier is at cleaning the air. Each air purifier usually has three CADR ratings: one for smoke, one for dust and one for pollen. These ratings can help guide you toward the most effective air purifier for your needs. For example, if you live in a pollen-heavy area, you might want to opt for a purifier with a high pollen CADR.

VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)

VOCs are a group of chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature and are commonly found in many household products and materials. These potentially harmful compounds can significantly affect indoor air quality. They can emanate from different sources, such as cleaning supplies, paint, aerosol sprays, and even some types of carpets and furniture. An air purifier with a VOC filter can help reduce the concentration of these compounds. This helps make the air safer and healthier to breathe.

ACH (Air Change per Hour)

ACH refers to the number of times an air purifier can completely replace the air within a specific room size in one hour. The higher the ACH rate, the more frequently the air is filtered, making your indoor air cleaner and healthier. For individuals with severe allergies or respiratory conditions, an air purifier with a high ACH rate can be particularly beneficial. However, it’s important to note that the ACH can vary depending on the room’s size, so consider this when choosing an air purifier.

Understanding common air purifier terms can help you make the right decisions when choosing an air purification system for your home. For quality heating and air conditioning repair and installation, trust only Stone Heating and Air. Call (541) 855-5521 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.