Air purifier for an apartment: which device to choose for home use

The article examines in detail such a useful device as an air purifier for an apartment: which type of device to choose for the house, the types of existing structures, their classification, functional and technical features, advantages and disadvantages, rating of the best models on the market, reviews and prices. The text provides useful advice on choosing a quality household appliance.

Air purifier for an apartment: which type of device to choose

Indoor air purity has a strong impact on a person's well-being and health. People suffering from manifestations of allergic reactions and suffering from bronchial asthma are especially sensitive to pollution. In such cases, it will not be enough to buy a humidifier, an air purifier will be an excellent addition to it in the struggle for comfortable living conditions in an apartment or house.

Most appliances are designed to combat common household allergens:

1. Dust - Dust particles by themselves do not pose a serious threat to humans. The danger lies in the mites living in them, protein particles from pets, spores of fungi and mold.
2. Pollen - Pollen from plants enters the house through windows. This type of allergen is a seasonal problem, but the effects can last up to a year.
3. Dandruff and hair of pets - pet hair is also not dangerous to humans, the harmful effect comes from the protein that is produced by the pet's body and is fixed on it.

Air purification is carried out using special filters that keep allergens inside the structure. Devices are classified according to their function and the type of filter installed inside. There are air purifiers on sale without replaceable filters. They are less hygienic than devices with a replaceable filtration system, but they have a lower cost.

Note!Not a single purifier is able to completely remove all types of allergens from the air. But quality devices can handle most of them. In stores, you can buy universal devices that include the function of humidification and air purification.

Air purifiers for apartments with plasma filters

The cleaning process is based on a plasma filter. It forms an electrostatic field that attracts dust particles. This type of device is quite popular among consumers. The filter consists of metal plates that are easy to clean and do not need to be replaced. You just need to rinse them under running water.

However, as air purifiers from dust, these devices are not as effective. The capabilities of an electrostatic (plasma) device allow it to handle only a certain amount of dust particles. Only 80-90% of pollution can be removed from the indoor air.

If there is too much dust in the room, the device cannot cope with high-quality cleaning of such volumes. For this reason, for a more effective cleaning of air masses in the house, a device with several degrees of cleaning is required. Allergy sufferers and asthmatics are better off looking for another option.

Home air purifiers with ionization function

Air purifiers with ionization function are a whole complex. The device includes several elements that carry out cleaning in different ways. This ensures a high degree of purification of air masses from various impurities that can be harmful to humans.

Operating principle ionizer:

1. Due to the built-in fan, polluted air masses are drawn into the structure.
2. The foam filter performs a coarse pre-cleaning, thereby trapping large dust particles.
3. Air streams are passed through a photocatalyst filter. There, the destruction of toxic and chemical substances occurs, as well as the elimination of unpleasant odors.
4. An ultraviolet lamp with bactericidal action disinfects the air.
5. Plates that create an electrostatic field filter out fine dust particles from the air.
6. A special device generates negatively charged ions that are transferred to the air.
7. Through the outlet grill, the air that has been cleaned and disinfected returns to the room.

Helpful advice! When using this home air purifier, dry and wet cleaning should be done more often. This is done in order to remove dust that has accumulated on surfaces.

The principle of operation of this equipment is at the same time its advantage. The device does not accumulate dirt inside itself, so there is no need for regular replacement of the filter system. Thus, the owner of the device will avoid additional costs for its maintenance. Metal plates can be easily washed under running water. To keep the pre-filter in good working order, it is sufficient to vacuum it.

Features of air purifiers with HEPA filters

If it is necessary to perform high-quality air purification from dust particles, a device equipped with a HEPA filtration system will be the best air purifier for an apartment.The name is an abbreviation for "High Efficiency Particulate Arrestance", which literally translates from English as "highly efficient particle containment."

Such devices have a complex configuration and represent a kind of accordion, consisting of a fibrous material. The density of the filter is so high that the gaps between the fibers are only a few microns.

A fan is installed inside the devices. It draws air masses into the air purifier with a HEPA filter, where the streams are cleaned not only of microscopic dust particles, but also of bacteria living in it, as well as pollen. The efficiency is almost 100%. For this reason, this type of equipment is considered one of the most optimal options for apartments where people with allergies live.

Helpful advice!To maintain such high efficiency, the appliance should be vacuum cleaned at least once a month. The filtering module is changed 1-2 times a year. The frequency of this procedure depends on the quality of air purification and the level of contamination.

The specificity of photocatalytic air purifiers

Just like devices with a non-filter, photocatalytic cleaners perform stepwise cleaning. Thanks to this, the equipment copes not only with the removal of dust particles of various sizes from the air, but also with the elimination of mold spores, fungus, dust mites. These are the factors that trigger allergies.

This type of device is necessarily equipped with an ultraviolet lamp and a catalyst. In addition, the structure contains ion generators, a carbon filter and plates that form an electrostatic field. When contaminated air gets inside the device, it is pre-cleaned by a dust filter located at the inlet. It retains most of the large dust particles and pet hair.

After that, the air masses enter the chamber, where they are exposed to the ultraviolet light of the lamp and the catalyst. As a result, the photocatalysis process starts. During this process, toxic contaminants in the air are decomposed into harmless substances. In other words, the output is carbon dioxide, water and oxygen. After this procedure, there is practically no dust deposits inside the device, so there is no need for frequent filter changes.

Why is it profitable to buy a photocatalytic air purifier for an apartment?

Many buyers choose to buy a photocatalytic air purifier for their home and there are several reasons for this:

1. Removal of vapors of formaldehyde and phenol emitted by building materials. Such materials include fiberboard and chipboard, on the basis of which furniture is made.
2. Elimination of exhaust gas entering the house from the street through window openings. Relevant for city apartments in buildings located on highways.
3. Effective removal of soot and carbon monoxide in homes where residents use a stove or fireplace.
4. Elimination of dust together with harmful microorganisms (bacteria and viruses) contained in it.
5. Air purification from allergens of animal, household and vegetable origin.
6. Removal of organic compounds that evaporate from powdered household chemicals and solutions.

Note!Devices of this class are most often characterized by a low level of electrical energy consumption. They are environmentally friendly and safe.However, the cleaners require minimal maintenance. It is enough to perform cleaning with a vacuum cleaner only once every six months.

Taking into account all the above, it becomes clear why it is so profitable to buy an air purifier for an apartment, which is based on the process of photocatalysis. On the other hand, cleaning efficiency, which is one of the most important advantages of these devices, can be considered a disadvantage.

In the process of running through the structure, the masses are cleaned so thoroughly that at the exit in the air there are not only harmful, but also neutral microorganisms for humans. The device simply cannot distinguish one from the other. Subsequently, this sterile air can negatively affect the immune system of children. For this reason, you should not perform too thorough cleaning of the rooms where the kids live.

Ozonizers as air purifiers for allergy sufferers and asthmatics

Ozonizer is a device designed to purify the air by forming a small amount of ozone. Ozone is a gas that is part of the most common oxygen. In high concentrations, this element has a detrimental effect on all living organisms, therefore it is widely used for disinfecting rooms and destroying microbes.

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Gas is formed when oxygen is exposed to an electric discharge. As a result of this, splitting into atoms occurs. A similar process occurs in nature when there is a thunderstorm outside. The characteristic smell of ozone can be felt in the air. It was this natural phenomenon that formed the basis of the principle of operation of the device. Electric current and oxygen collide in it artificially.

Note! There are many ozone-based air purifiers for allergy sufferers. But all of these devices have similar key components: line voltage converters, ozone generators, and a fan.

Why is it profitable to buy an air purifier for home with ozonation: advantages and disadvantages

Air purifiers using the ozonation principle are very popular. As household appliances, they are able to offer many useful benefits:

1. Indoor air disinfection with complete removal of mold and pathogens.
2. Elimination of putrid odors.
3. Cleaning drinking water from impurities of harmful metals and chlorine.
4. Removing chemicals and antibiotics from food, such as meat, vegetables, fruits.
5. Elimination of unpleasant odors from refrigerator chambers and disinfection.
6. Treatment of things with ozone (underwear, bedding, furniture, shoes).
7. Cleaning air conditioner filters from mold.

Having such a large number of advantages, air purifiers-ozonizers are not without their disadvantages. Doctors recommend that you carefully consider the use of such equipment in the home. Excessive exposure to ozone on the air surrounding a person is not allowed. To exclude negative consequences from the use of the device, you should strictly adhere to the operating instructions that come with it. It is better if during the use of the device, people will not be in the premises.

Features of air purification in an apartment using devices with carbon filters

Devices equipped with charcoal filters are classified as fine cleaning devices.They can remove all kinds of impurities from air masses, including gases. The structures contain UV lamps that remove biological contaminants from the air.

By themselves, carbon filters are not capable of high-quality purification of air masses from environmental pollution, which are present in large quantities in city apartments. Therefore, it is recommended to buy an air purifier for allergy sufferers of the modern generation. In such models, additional filters of the photocatalytic type or HEPA are installed.

Note! It is not recommended to use carbon filtration systems in rooms with high humidity levels. In such conditions, the material absorbs moisture well and deteriorates quickly. As a result, flowability is lost, and, consequently, efficiency decreases.

The charcoal filters contain fine powder of charcoal activated carbon. It forms a lot of resistance when air flows through the system. Therefore, when looking for where to buy an air purifier with carbon filtration, it is recommended to pay attention to the presence of models with large granules in the composition.

On sale there are also devices with pleated and universal strainer. Shirred versions, due to their large absorption surface, are considered more effective in combating small and large particles than mesh ones. The filters are changed twice a year, otherwise these elements themselves can become a source of air pollution.

Air cleaning as a humidifier and air purifier for home

The air washer is purified by hydro filtration. The device works as follows:

• the fan drives air masses into the cleaner;
• Passing through the area with special rotor impellers, the air is mixed with the liquid (water) due to the blades of various configurations almost to the state of dispersion. Here there is a cleaning from impurities, which later settle on the pallet. Air masses are separated and directed to the outlets;
• in the best humidifiers-air purifiers there are additional functions for photocatalytic and ultraviolet cleaning. Moreover, the inclusion of these options is carried out if necessary. As a result, air purification is so effective that it eliminates viruses, odors and mold spores;

• built-in ionization module is another advantage of modern models. Thanks to negative ions, the air reaches a high level of purity and freshness;
• after that, the humidified and purified air is fed back into the room.

Note!In the ratings of air purifiers and humidifiers for an apartment, car wash occupies a leading position due to its versatility and the presence of a large number of functions. The devices not only remove large and small particles of dust and other allergens from the air. They are able to eliminate unpleasant odors, humidify and even aromatize the air. The efficiency of the devices is 85-95%.

What are the best home purifiers and humidifiers

There are three types of humidifiers:

• steam;
• ultrasonic;
• traditional (mechanical type).

All of them, to one degree or another, also perform the function of a purifier, despite the fact that the main task of these devices is to humidify the air.

In the ratings of air purifiers, ultrasonic humidifiers are equated to devices that provide cleaning. The ultrasonic membrane, which breaks down the water to the smallest particles, generates heated or cold steam.It is atomized thanks to the built-in fan. Ultrasonic devices are safe, virtually silent, economical and easy to operate.

Traditional devices remove dust particles from the air during humidification. Cleaning is carried out by blowing air through humidifying cartridges. The disadvantages of structures include high noise levels.

Steam humidifiers work with hot steam. This type of construction is the least popular; careless operation can cause burns. In addition, steam appliances consume a lot of energy and make a lot of noise.

A quick overview of the best household air purifiers and humidifiers

The capabilities of the Atmos AQUA-1210 air purifier are enough to humidify and purify the air in a 30 m² room.

Device advantages:

• ergonomic and stylish design;
• high functionality;
• air purification even from fine dust;
• night illumination, which turns off if necessary;
• profitability;
• aromatization function.

Note!The Atmos AQUA-1210 device works in 4 directions at once: purification, hydroionization, humidification and biological sterilization of air.

The Sharp KC-D61RW Air Purifier is capable of treating a 48 m² room. It has a convenient electronic control. The maximum air cleaning speed is 396 m³ / h.

The advantages of the device include a multi-level filtration system:

• pre-filter;
• deodorizing filter (washable);
• condensate filter;
• HEPA filter.

The device has three operating modes: ion rain, cleaning and humidification, pollen.

With the Venta LW15 cleaner and humidifier, an area of ​​20 m² can be treated. The device is easy to use and has the following advantages:

• water filtration system;
• the ability to adjust the intensity of work;
• low noise level;
• low liquid level indicator.

The air purification capacity of the device is 120 m³ / h.

Prices for air purifiers for apartments with humidification function:

Device model	price, rub.
Atmos AQUA-1210	4900
Venta LW15	14790
Sharp KC-D61RW	24200

 

Which air purifier to choose for an apartment: reviews and recommendations

The main criteria for choosing an air purifier:

• power level - the larger the area of ​​the room, the more power the unit should have. This increases the cost of electricity;
• service area - this indicator is indicated by the manufacturer on the package. The device must cover the intended processing area of ​​the room, otherwise the air purification will be inadequate;

• type of control - devices with mechanical control belong to the budget category of devices. Electronic cleaners allow you to create a work program that will meet the needs of the residents;
• type of power supply - power can be rechargeable or from the network. The presence of a battery is considered an advantage, especially if there are frequent power outages in the house;
• noise level - the maximum allowable limit is 35 dB. Despite the fact that manufacturers set this figure up to 65 dB, it is recommended to buy less noisy models;
• dimensional parameters - for small rooms, compact and stable device options should be selected. They are comfortable and easy to carry from one place to another.

Note! Most of the reviews confirm the fact that many buyers prefer devices with additional functionality.These options include ionization, ozonation, UV lamp, the ability to adjust the speeds, indication of filter clogging and switching on, timer, remote control, aromatization.

Buying an air purifier for an apartment: consumer reviews

Reviews from forums about household air purifiers:

“I started thinking about buying an air purifier when it turned out that my child was allergic. Analyzes have shown that the baby's allergic reaction is not to food. The doctor advised to create hypoallergenic conditions in the house. Part of these conditions was the purchase of climatic equipment, so we got the Bork A700 air purifier. The device copes with the removal of flying dust perfectly, but does not eliminate odors. Among the minuses, I want to note the large size, which takes up decent space in the room. An interesting nuance of the Bork air purifier was the presence of a vitamin filter. Although its effectiveness cannot be verified. "

Irina Dubkova, Moscow

“The first couple of months of using the Daikin MC701VM air purifier effectively eliminated odors in the home. Moreover, the reaction is instant: to cigarette smoke, perfume, etc. The device works quietly and removes dust well. After 2 months, a strange smell appeared. Had to vacuum the deodorizing filter. I did not notice any significant shortcomings. The only thing that is annoying is that you need to clean the filter almost every week to get rid of the chemical smell. "

Arsen Martirosyan, Yekateribung

“During pregnancy, I experienced a terrible allergy. Buying a Xiaomi air purifier helped me deal with the problem of unpleasant odors and spring allergies. The device is beautiful, well made, and removes dust well. It really helps. At maximum power, it emits a strong but tolerable noise. The design is cool. Recommend".

Natalia Balashova, Saint Petersburg

Rating of air purifiers for allergy sufferers and asthmatics

The design of the Aerolife S-100 air purifier is designed for effective purification and subsequent disinfection of air. The device eliminates allergens, bacteria, tiny aerosols, mold spores and even viruses.

Note! In the process of air purification, organic compounds and harmful microflora do not accumulate inside the structure. The device decomposes these components by mineralization into carbon dioxide and water vapor.

The body of the device is made of sheet steel and coated with powder dye that is resistant to disinfecting treatment. There is an indication of faults and filter contamination.

Many consumers are also satisfied with the purchase of the Daikin MC701VM air purifier.

The device offers several useful advantages:

• high cleaning efficiency;
• multi-stage filter system;
• low noise level (only 16 dB);
• profitability;
• timer;
• ionization;
• the ability to block access to children;
• remote control.

The popular Bork A700 air purifier also has an effective cleaning system, which includes the following types of filters: antivirus, nonwoven filter, HEPA, carbon.

This model got into the rating of the best due to the presence of many operating modes:

• cleaning modes (5 pcs.);
• automatic operation with a sensor;
• natural mode filtering;
• silent mode.

The Xiaomi Mi Air Purfier 2 air purifier has 3 operating modes. The design is stylish and neat, fits well into the interior. The cleaning efficiency, depending on the type of harmful particles, varies within 99.5-100%. Convenient Wi-Fi interface.Sensors respond to air quality, air temperature and humidity.

Air purifiers price:

Device model	price, rub.
Xiaomi Mi Air Purfier 2	10800
Daikin MC701VM	13500
Bork A700	16000
Aerolife S-100	29000

Making an air purifier with your own hands

To create the simplest 2-in-1 device (air purifier and humidifier), you will need several components:

• plastic container with a lid;
• distilled water;
• computer cooler.

First, a round hole is cut in the lid of the plastic container. The size is selected taking into account the dimensions of the cooler. Using any available method, you need to fix the fan from the computer to the cover. If there was no mistake with sizing, this procedure will not cause any difficulties and the cooler will exactly fit into the hole.

After that, the container is filled with water and the structure is ready for use, just close the lid and turn on the fan. This is the easiest way to make an air purifier and humidifier. To achieve maximum efficiency, it is still recommended to purchase a high-quality device and do not forget about regular filter replacement.