An air purifier or air conditioner is a large-area machine that removes airborne contaminants from a room's air to enhance indoor air quality, thus decreasing allergic reactions and asthma attacks. These devices are most commonly sold as being beneficial for allergy suffers and asthma victims and even at alleviating or removing second hand cigarette smoke. These machines work by producing a chemical, usually either ozone or a form of benzene, that fills the room with an odorless and colorless mist that makes the air smell better and feels cleaner. Purifiers are sometimes called air cleaners or a dehumidifier.
The most common air purifiers operate using one of three methods: physical filtration, biological filtration, or optical filtration. Physical filtration relies on using a fine mesh filter to remove small particles from the air. Biological filtration uses a biological agent such as ozone to kill dust mites, mold, bacteria, viruses, and other organisms. Optical filtration relies on using an activated carbon filter to absorb visible pollutants from the air. Optical purifiers are often combined with ozone purifiers to maximize their protective actions against airborne allergens.
A physical air purifier is effective in removing many common air pollutants from a room. These include: pollen, spores, dust mites, molds, pet dander, dust, dirt, and other solid irritants. Ozone generators produce ozone, which is thought to have many health benefits, such as reducing asthma symptoms. Although it is believed to be dangerous in small quantities, ozone can irritate the eyes, nasal passages, and skin.
Biological air purifiers rely on ozone generators to produce ozone, which is thought to have many health benefits. Examples of these include killing dust mites, helping to fight diseases such as HIV and anthrax, preventing the transmission of virus infections, and treating allergies. These purifiers can also remove many organic pollutants, which include pesticides and herbicides. They can also remove large particulates of dirt and debris from the air.
When buying an air purifier, it is important to know the rating for ozone or UV light. The highest rating is given to those that contain at least one percent ozone. A high ach rating indicates that it is effective in cleaning the air without emitting dangerous levels of ozone. Some purifiers can have an ach rating of five or even higher.
Researching an air purifier is important. Not all models will work well for every person. Purchasing a quality unit will improve the quality of the air that is breathed in every time the machine is used. If a person prefers to buy their own purifiers, they should keep in mind that a good quality unit should last for between twelve months and eighteen months.