Which air purifier for an apartment to choose. Which air purifier for an apartment to choose How to choose a device for a specific room

Any adult and educated person knows that the air in the city is not only far from natural purity, but sometimes dangerous to health. And in order to protect ourselves from it at least at home, we use special equipment. How not to get lost in the variety of gadgets and choose the best air purifier? Let's consider everything in order.

Clean air in the house can be attributed to the basic physiological needs. And if you don't live in a clean suburb, or at least near a park, then you most likely need an air purifier. Modern manufacturers create and modify such devices in large numbers, adding the necessary (or not?) functions of ultrasound, ionization, humidification, and so on, ad infinitum, changing the shape, size and number of filters, thus completely confusing the buyer. Let's see what air purifiers currently exist and what they are for.

There are no less myths in the field of air purification now than in show business 🙂 But for the most part, all air purifiers consist of a fan that drives this same air through a gadget, and a filter system. And it is in the latter that all the differences begin. To begin with, we divide all cleaning systems into two types:

• water;
• dry.

An air purifier for an apartment is most often tried to be combined with a humidifier, which has already created some confusion between these devices. However, an ordinary humidifier does not purify the air, but only fills it with moisture, and of such devices, only an air washer can carry the proud title of “air purifier”. An air purifier for this type of home actually “washes” the air by forcing it through a water curtain. At the same time, under the action of water, airborne dust and other small pollutants settle on the washing discs. Cleaning the air with the help of washing occurs along with humidification, which adds to the popularity of these gadgets. All air washers work on the same principle and differ in size, fan power and additional functions. Most often, air disinfection is introduced into the sink. In addition to the desire to introduce as many functions attractive to the buyer as possible, in this case, manufacturers are also guided by the principle of compensation - the fact is that the humid environment formed in sinks is very favorable for the growth of bacteria, harmful microorganisms and fungi, and the sink must be constantly looked after and cleaned it so that unexpected guests do not settle in the device.
Therefore, such an air purification system is often supplemented with a UV lamp for safety. How safe this technology is, we have already said in another.
In addition, the sinks themselves work quite sedately and calmly, you should not expect quick cleaning of the room, removal of odors and the smallest particles of pollutants and allergens from them.

If we talk about cleaning the air from dust, allergens and odors without the participation of water, then the choice of gadgets becomes many times larger. The devices differ in size, performance, design, and most importantly, which filters for air purification are inside and how many of them. But for the most part, all devices of this type have high power and can quickly clean the air in the room. The device of dry cleaning systems includes a more powerful fan that draws air from the room with force and drives it through the filtration system. Basically, in such systems there are such types of filters:

• Coarse air filter. It is usually a mesh or porous material that is able to trap large contaminants, such as dust balls or animal hair.
• Fine filters. They usually look like fabric or paper material folded like an accordion. The filter material has many pores, which are superimposed on each other due to an unusual fold, forming a fine-meshed non-linear sieve. Such filters trap dust particles and most of the allergens.
• HEPA filters. Today, such filters are the most effective for air purification. They trap even the smallest and most dangerous pollutant particles, such as PM2.5, tiny allergens such as dust mite secretions, and so on. Given all this, a HEPA air filter in the apartment is necessary; without it, the entire cleaning system will be incomplete. We have already described in detail the technology of their work in this article.
• AK filter, it is also an adsorption-catalytic filter. If, in addition to dust, allergens and harmful particles, you want to protect yourself from unpleasant odors, then the air purification system in the apartment must necessarily include such a filter. Inside the filter there is a special material that literally “draws” gas molecules into itself and securely locks them inside. Some manufacturers make variations of the AK filter, such as standard and enhanced, if the odor sources are very strong or too close to the room. The same functions are performed by carbon and photocatalytic filters.

The best air purifier for an apartment, of course, will contain both filters to clean the air from dust, as well as protection from allergens, harmful particles and unpleasant odors. Most often, the disadvantages of such devices are energy consumption and noise level. In fact, a high-quality air purifier consumes no more energy than other household appliances (and often many times less than them), and the noise that the gadget creates is aerodynamic, caused by the passage of air through the filter system. However, with the help of new technologies and materials, some models got rid of this noise and now they work so quietly that sometimes questions arise whether the device is turned on at all 🙂

Who is in what much: additional features in air purifiers

When choosing which air purifier is best for the home, people usually pay attention not only to the number of filters, but also to additional features. Let's look at the most popular of them.

Air disinfection is most often confused with air purification. It represents the destruction of pathogenic bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms, and, perhaps, this function should be considered separately. Air disinfection is most relevant in the field of medicine, but it can also be very useful in everyday life. Even the highest quality home air filter can capture harmful microorganisms, but does not destroy them. In modern air cleaners, two methods of air disinfection are most often used:

• Photocatalytic filter with UV lamp. Photocatalysis and UV radiation have been used together for a long time, allowing you to solve two problems at once - unpleasant odors and the destruction of microorganisms. Unfortunately, the age of this technology has also become its main problem - now many viruses and bacteria are already resistant to UV radiation, and such radiation itself is not always safe for humans. We have already considered UV lamps and their scope in detail in another article, now it makes no sense to retell the whole history of this issue. If you are using an air purifier with a UV lamp, follow the instructions for use carefully.
• inactivation of microorganisms. Modern technology that deprives all pathogens of the ability to reproduce, inactivating them with ozone produced inside the device. Thus, the purifier and air decontaminator complement each other: HEPA filters trap pests, and the decontamination system immediately inactivates them, leaving the air purifier itself sterile. At the same time, filters are provided for the decomposition of the ozone created in the device, so that additional ozonation does not occur in the room. Now inactivation is implemented only in a few models, for example, in the air Tion, but we believe that the future belongs to this technology and soon it will be used to protect your health in every home.

Also, if we talk about multifunctional gadgets with air purification, we cannot fail to mention. These devices provide a constant supply of fresh air with closed windows, cleaning it in three levels of filtration - protection from coarse dust, thorough cleaning of the smallest harmful particles and allergens with a HEPA filter of at least H11 class, retention of molecules of harmful gases and unpleasant odors. In addition, the breather heats the air to the selected temperature and automatically maintains it. The most advanced models are connected to the MagicAir smart microclimate system and automatically regulate the supply of fresh air in the house. In addition, there are models with a recirculation mode, in which there is a quiet cleaning and heating of the air that is already in the room, that is, one device immediately performs the functions

06/07/2018 0 5 608 views

Stale air in the room affects the decrease in efficiency and deterioration of mood. It can have a negative impact on the health of the whole family. Consider how to clean the air in the apartment from dust, bacteria and viruses. This is necessary to eliminate the risk of sore throat, tightness in the chest, and chronic asthma for this reason. Sources of pollution are found in any room.

It is possible to get rid of almost all without difficulty. It is important to regularly clean the apartment with a vacuum cleaner, ventilate. Tobacco products adversely affect the air, so you need to try to get rid of a bad habit. At the very least, you should not smoke at home, because all family members suffer from it. Humidifiers are also great at cleaning rooms.

The main types of air pollution in the house

Contaminants in the apartment are of the following types:

• combustion products. These are gases, particles of substances formed during combustion. They appear from non-ventilated and insufficiently ventilated stoves, fireplaces, stoves. The type and number of contaminants is affected by the serviceability of the device, fuel.
• Volatile organic compounds. These are different substances released in the form of gases from liquids or solids. They are found in household products such as varnishes, paints, washing gels and powders, synthetic fragrances, furniture and building materials, and pesticides.
• Triggers of allergic reactions and asthma. This is mainly smoking, including passive, dust mites, mold. The last problem is often seen in the bathroom, for example, on the curtain. Insects often live on textiles. Pet hair can also lead to breathing problems, so you should brush your pets and clean the furniture periodically.

In addition to internal reasons, there are also external ones. These are pollen, industrial emissions, dust, exhaust gases entering the apartment through the windows.

How to clean the air in the apartment using electronic devices?

There are several ways to purify the air. Flavors and fresheners should not be considered, with their help the problem is not solved, but only masked. They only produce a pleasant smell that interrupts the smoke of tobacco products, kitchen fumes. To improve the atmosphere, you need to get rid of harmful substances and dust particles.

There is no need to talk about the shortage of dust generators at present. Many household items play this role, from books to soft toys. There are also many products that attract dust. For example, a computer accumulates it in large quantities in a short time. Even monthly cleaning does not help.

To purify the air, electrical devices have been developed that draw in dust. It is then easy enough to wash off, clean or throw away with a filter.

Electrostatic cleaners are the most common option in terms of cost / quality ratio. There are no consumables in them, and the action is based on Coulomb's law. Ionized air moves and touches particles that receive an electrical charge. Plates with opposite potential attract gas and dust, which leads to air purification.

1. These devices effectively get rid of tobacco smoke (if the particles are less than 1 micron), soot. In return, they refresh, produce the aroma of ozone with a built-in ozonator. The latter is useful because it eliminates toxins, viruses, harmful microorganisms, and infections. Ozone promotes the oxidation of unpleasant aromatic compounds, pesticides, phenolic resins.
2. The advantage of the devices is noiselessness, they have no moving elements, a low level of energy consumption (from 28 to 40 W). An ionizer is useful without other options, because there are ions in the air from the very beginning. But if it passes through the filter, then the natural charge is lost.
3. Such air is unpleasant and harmful to people and pets. It can cause a number of diseases. Therefore, you should purchase devices with a built-in ionizer or the device itself.

There are many manufacturers of such cleaners, for example, Maxion (Korea), Dakin (Japan), Super-plus (Russia). Less well-known brands such as Atmos, AIC, Fanline. The design is simple, so the device can be easily disassembled into parts for cleaning. If it functions every day continuously, the procedure should be carried out weekly. To do this, you need to remove dust and fumes with a rag or dampened sponge, you can blow open internal areas.

Purifiers are easy to manage. Usually they have a power button, a power regulator, and a UV lamp (if available). In the fancy model, the standard buttons are replaced by touch ones. Sometimes there is even an LCD display, a remote control, a timer.

When buying, do not pay excessive attention to additional options. You need to be based on the following criteria: this is the type of filter and the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room for which the device is designed.

There are purifiers that process the air with HEPA filters (like in vacuum cleaners). Their advantage is the possibility of effective purification from particles smaller than 0.34 microns. They also consume little power (table-top appliances approx. 5 W). The price of the device starts from 1 thousand rubles.

The downside is the cost of filters that need to be updated annually. Products are not popular because of the cost, but they are often used simultaneously with photocatalytic and electrostatic types.

The photocatalytic type is considered the most efficient and expensive. Purification and disinfection is due to the interaction of the catalyst and ultraviolet light. The latter is on the surface of the catalyst (mainly titanium dioxide). In this case, natural substances appear that have a significant level of oxidizing power, such as higher oxides and ozone. They eliminate contaminants that are on the surface. The size of the particles that are destroyed is 1 nm (as in molecules).

Decomposes toxic chemicals, smoke and odors. They become harmless substances (carbon dioxide, water) and eliminate microbes. The process takes place at the molecular level, so accumulation does not occur. There is no need to change filters, as the air is purified naturally.

The advantage is the long life of the filter. It is only necessary to change the UV lamp, as its service life is 1-3 years, depending on the manufacturer.

This type is often used in combination with a carbon and electrostatic filter, an ozonizer to trap particles larger than 1 micron. You'll have to spend more money, so it's about the necessary additional functions.

The disadvantage is a significant noise level. This is especially true for budget devices, costing from 4 to 6 thousand rubles. Noise can reach up to 55 dB. Compared to other devices, the photocatalytic type consumes a large amount of electricity (65-80 W). Manufacturers: Panasonic, AIC, REDMOND, NeoClima, Daikin.

Air wash. The device is a combination humidifier and air purifier.
It costs a lot (15-20 thousand rubles), but they save space in the apartment. The filter is water.

The principle of operation is quite simple: polluted air blows over the water surface. Particles of dirt due to electrostatic forces remain on the water, then dissolve and settle.

Cons: the quality of cleaning is inferior to HEPA filters and photocatalytic devices. Caring for an air washer takes quite a lot of time. Its component is a humidifier, so the water needs to be added and changed every couple of days.

There are types in which the device consists of not only the listed devices. It can be built-in multi-stage cleaning (electrostatic, mechanical and washing). There is a room disinfection mode and a temperature controller. The manufacturer can add other features as desired. Popular firms: Polaris, Venta, BORK, Electrolux.

Any type of cleaner will not be superfluous in the apartment. The air is perfectly cleaned, you can determine the level of benefit by the size of the trapped particles. It is needed in a house where people smoke and often light candles.

After one candlelit dinner, so much soot accumulates that you have to clean it out right away. If the house does not have this device, then people have to breathe it. The cost of devices varies from 3 to 10 thousand rubles.

Folk remedies

You can use the following methods:

• Bamboo. Many Koreans use this plant in a thermally processed form to purify the air. It should be baked until charred. Then bamboo will attract substances that harm a person. Put in a small bag, hang around the apartment. This method has been successfully used for centuries.

• Salt lamp. A common method by which you can get rid of viruses, microbes. The lamp heats up at low power, evaporates salt vapors that neutralize toxins and harmful substances. The light from it has a positive effect on the condition of the inhabitants of the house, making them more relaxed, peaceful, calm.

• Cinnamon. It helps to improve mood, concentration, brings a state of joy and happiness to the apartment. It is necessary to take two sticks of cinnamon, boil over low heat. You can use the ground version, but you need to make sure of the quality, otherwise there will be no result.

• Wax candles. Unlike paraffin, they do not harm a person, but only benefit. The principle of operation is similar to a salt lamp. It is important that they are completely natural, there are no dyes and impurities.

• home fountains. They wash away germs and are considered one of the best cleaners. During the operation of the fountain, negative ions are produced, which are attached to the molecules of unpurified air. They give them weight and lower them down.

• Houseplants that purify the air. Flowers decorate the room and bring benefits. Home plants such as dendrobium, spathiphyllum, anthurium, shefflera, golden epiremium, ferns, red-edged dracaena, bamboo, chlorophytum strengthen health.

Rules to help protect the air from pollution

1. Take off your shoes in the hallway. Shoes collect a lot of dust and dirt during the day. Therefore, in every apartment there should be slippers.
2. Call a professional to check it out. Cookers, boilers and fireplaces become sources of carbon monoxide when damaged. Even if its concentration is low, there are signs similar to the flu. Therefore, you should call an employee to identify the malfunction of the devices.
3. Get rid of dust mites. These insects lead to allergic reactions and asthma. They are available in any apartment, their food is dead skin cells. To stop feeding them, it is important to change pillowcases and sheets frequently, put covers on pillows and mattresses. Another remedy is to keep the humidity level in the house below 50 percent.
4. Install underfloor heating in the bathroom. Water is an ideal environment for mold, which leads to lung diseases, allergic reactions. If you make such a floor, then the heat will come from the base, drying the entire surface of the room. No need to buy carpets to prevent slipping. It will be possible to get rid of foreign odors.
5. Use natural detergents. In ordinary household chemicals, there are chemicals such as chlorine, ethylene glycol. Even if all safety recommendations are followed, they lead to nausea, irritation of the nasopharynx, and headache.

Video: how to clean the air in the apartment from dust, bacteria and viruses?

• instead of paraffin candles, it is better to use soy or wax types;
• airing the room should be frequent;
• do not smoke in the apartment;
• carpets should be disposed of, as they are prone to the accumulation of germs;
• apply for painting paints with less toxicity;
• refuse frequent dry cleaning;
• choose wood furniture;
• do not use vinyl curtains for the bathroom.

Air purification is very important for health. If it is contaminated, it can lead to an allergic reaction. Therefore, you should buy the appropriate devices and carry out processing using folk methods.

Cleaning indoor air from viruses and bacteria (otherwise called air sterilization) is very important when an infected person is in the same room next to a healthy person. This is especially important during an epidemic. In the absence of viruses and bacteria at home, it will be easier for the immune system of the human body to “cope” with the previously received “portion” of microorganisms.

A distinctive feature of these organisms is their small size (up to 0.1 µm), which is why they are invisible to the human eye. There are several ways to destroy them in air cleaners:

1. UV irradiation. Placing UV lamps in air cleaners to sterilize the air is not uncommon. But we must remember that at certain wavelengths of the UV spectrum, ozone (O 3 gas) is formed, the inhalation of which by a person is dangerous to health. The presence of ozone is felt by a characteristic smell (remember the smell during quartzization of medical offices).
2. Ozonation. By itself, ozone (O 3 ) is a very dangerous gas for human inhalation. This gas is the strongest oxidizing agent, and therefore, its lifetime is short. This feature is used by ozonizers (air sterilizers with ozone). In such devices, air with ozone does not immediately leave the device, but first passes a certain “distance”, where all the ozone is oxidized, and sterile air is already obtained at the exit.
3. Exposure to high temperature. This is perhaps the most natural and safest method of sterilization for humans. It is used in thermodynamic air cleaners. At high temperatures (200-210°C), all organic matter in the air oxidizes (burns out). At the outlet of the device, air comes out, completely purified from organic particles (allergens, viruses and bacteria). It also effectively destroys ozone.
4. Impact on organics by hydroxyl ions (OH¯). Water molecules, which are always in the air, break down to form negatively charged hydroxyls (OH¯), which are very reactive. They "attach" to the organic molecule and "tear" it. This sterilization method is used in air purifiers that use photocatalysis (UV radiation with a titanium dioxide catalyst) and other cleaning methods that work in a similar way, the name of which is most often given by the manufacturer himself (plasma clusters, nano, etc.).

According to the combination of efficiency of air purification from viruses and safety for humans and the environment, thermodynamic air purifiers seem to be optimal.

More than seven million deaths annually by the World Health Organization are associated with poor ecology, including dirty air. But if on the street it is difficult to protect yourself from inhalation of pollution, then at home it is quite real. We have selected the most effective air purifiers: they will help create a healthy atmosphere in the apartment or at work.

Criterias of choice

What does "efficient air purifier" mean? What were we guided by when choosing models? We explain. In our opinion, the best way to clean the air is through filters (mechanical cleaning). In any case, nothing better has yet been invented for household models. So the main criterion is the quality of the filtration system.

In the text we mention air filters of various classes. For your convenience, in the infographic below we provide information about their effectiveness.

IQAir HealthPro 250: super filters, expensive

The triple air purification system implemented in the Swiss IQAir HealthPro 250 allows it to cope with fine dust, allergens, bacteria and viruses that are dangerous for our body, as well as odors and gaseous air pollution.

At the first stage of purification, the air passes through a pre-filter - large dust is retained. Then it falls into the massive ( 2.5 kg) a two-component adsorbing MultiGas filter (based on granular activated carbon), which is responsible for cleaning the air from a wide range of gaseous chemical contaminants and odors, including cigarette smoke.

IQAir HealthPro 250 air purifier. Designed for 85 m². The cost is about 100,000 rubles *

Further on the path of air of impressive size is the branded HyperHEPA filter (working surface - 5 m², class: H 12-H 13, depending on the speed of cleaning). It retains particles as small as 0.003 microns, which is almost seven times smaller than the size of the smallest viruses. In addition, it almost completely - with an efficiency of 99.97%, according to the manufacturer - copes with particles as small as 0.3 microns.

The electronic control of IQAir HealthPro 250 allows you to select the desired intensity of air purification (maximum capacity - 440 m³ / h: 10 minutes to clean the air in a room of 15 m²), create a work schedule and be aware of the status of the filters. It's not a small air purifier, but it has a chassis and a comfortable handle so it won't be a problem to move around.

*All prices in the material are current on the day of publication.

site explains:

The larger the filters in the air cleaner, the longer they work at maximum efficiency, the less often they need to be replaced. But, as in the case of IQAir, the size of the filters also affects the dimensions of the device, increasing them. Here you need to choose - either a more compact model and more frequent replacement of filters (these are additional costs), or a larger air cleaner and, accordingly, less frequent replacement of filters.

LG PuriCare: he knows what to do

An important feature of the South Korean LG Puri Care AS60GDPV0 air purifier is air quality sensors. One controls the presence of fine dust in it with a size of 1 micron, and the other checks for foreign odors and gaseous pollution. Based on the data from these sensors, Smart-mode works: the air cleaner independently optimizes its work - selects the cleaning intensity.

Air enters the purifier around the entire circumference of the case - so, according to the Koreans, the cleaning process is faster. In Booster mode, a special additional fan is activated at the top of the device, which helps to quickly distribute clean air throughout the room.

Air purifier LG Puri Care AS60GDPV0. Designed for 58 m². Cost — 59 000 rubles

The pre-filter traps coarse dust, the high-efficiency HEPA filter (LG does not provide information on its class) fine dust, plus a special filter insert frees it from odors and gaseous contaminants. The filters are not as big as the IQAir, but the purifier itself is smaller. The manufacturer reports that the replacement of filters is required every 1-2 years. The cost of a set of filters is 5,999 rubles. LG Puri Care itself will cost 59,000 rubles.

Daniil Golovin, site project expert:

Air purifiers are designed to purify the air in rooms of different sizes. Often it can be 50 or even 100 m². So what? Is one purifier enough for the whole apartment? No: Manufacturers always have ideal conditions in mind - no internal walls, closed doors or anything that interferes with air distribution. In an ordinary apartment, if it is not a "studio" type of housing, all this is difficult to implement. So you will have to install a purifier in every or almost every room if you want the maximum effect - clean air everywhere.

Boneco H680: cleansing and moisturizing

Boneco H680 solves two problems: purifies the air and humidifies it (normal air humidity is no less important than its purity). Functions can be used separately - cleaning only or humidification only. A hybrid filter that captures fine dust and odors is responsible for the purity of the air.

It has an EPA component (filter class - E 11) - copes with 95% of fine particles (see the filter efficiency table at the beginning of the material): dust, bacteria, pollen, etc. An activated carbon filter fights odors.

A special dampening drum based on sponge material is constantly wetted with water and maintains optimal humidity in the room. Purified air, passing through it, takes moisture particles with it into the room. The water consumption of the humidification system can reach up to a liter per hour, the volume of the clean water tank is 11 liters.

Boneco H680 air purifier. Designed 100 m². Cost — 60 000 rubles

Boneco H680 has electronic control. The climate complex monitors the degree of air pollution and the level of humidity - the information is displayed on the display. Based on these data, the auto mode works - maintaining optimal air quality. There is an optimized mode for the children's room, as well as a night one. When it will be necessary to replace the filters, the device will tell you about this indication on the display.

Dyson Pure Hot + Cool: three in one

Having created a bladeless fan with Air Multiplier technology a few years ago (air “blows” through a special circuit), the British decided to get the most out of it. In addition to the humidifier, which we are talking about, they created another device based on it, in which, in addition to the fan function, heating and air purification were added - Dyson Pure Hot + Cool.

The air purification system here is classic: the H13 class HEPA filter catches fine dust, bacteria, plant pollen, viruses and other allergens. Allergy sufferers and asthmatics can use this cleaner without fear - the model has passed a special certification.

The filter layer of activated carbon with a special treatment has, according to the manufacturer, an increased ability to capture odors and gaseous contaminants from the air. Watch our video about this air purifier.

Dyson Pure Hot + Cool air purifier. Calculated 37 m². Cost - about 35,000 rubles

In addition to air purification at any time of the year, you can turn on the heating mode in cold weather, and use Pure Hot + Cool as a fan in summer. On the official website, however, it is said that it cools, but this is a marketing exaggeration - there is no air conditioning function here. It is also convenient that two modes of air distribution are provided - directed and scattered.

Xiaomi Mi Air Purifier 2: inexpensive but cool

With this air purifier - Xiaomi Mi Air Purifier 2 - an interesting story: it seems to be in Russia, but it seems like it is not there. That is, you can buy it, including in Russian online stores - there are dozens of offers on Yandex Market. But, as RDC GROUP (this is the official representative and distributor of Xiaomi in Russia) explained to us, these air purifiers are not yet supplied to our country through their channels.

However, the model is interesting - like many other Xiaomi products - in terms of characteristics and price-quality ratio. Design in the spirit of minimalism. Dirty air is sucked in from four sides (in fact, like the Korean LG PuriCare, only the “Chinese” case is less rounded). The maximum cleaning intensity is 310 m³ of air per hour: in about 10 minutes, you can clean the air in a room of about 20 m².

Air purifier Xiaomi Mi Air Purifier 2. Designed for 39 m². Cost - about 9,000 rubles

The cleaning system is traditional. First, a preliminary plastic mesh - for coarse dust. Next is the highly efficient EPA E11 filter, manufactured by the Japanese company TORAY (a well-known concern specializing, among other things, in the production of water and air purification systems). Plus a special layer based on activated carbon - against odors and gaseous air pollution.

The purifier can be controlled from anywhere - using a proprietary mobile application - and even create a work schedule. And also receive information about air quality, temperature and humidity at home, about the need to replace filters. It's very cool that Xiaomi Mi Air Purifier 2 can be bought in Russia for 8,500-9,000 rubles - this is a great price for such functionality.

- If space allows - use an air purifier with large (volumetric) filters: these work longer with maximum efficiency.
- Do not forget to regularly change those filters in the purifier that require it - over time, their effectiveness decreases.
- To make the effect most noticeable - install an air cleaner in each room of the apartment where you spend a lot of time (bedroom, living room, children's room).
- The fastest air is cleaned in completely isolated rooms, but do not neglect periodic ventilation.
- Use the remote control capabilities, if provided - this is convenient and will optimize the performance of the cleaner, extend the life of the filters.

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More and more people living in megacities or even in medium-sized cities are increasingly thinking about how to clean the air in an apartment from substances harmful to humans that can cause various diseases or allergic reactions. This problem can be solved by using one of the types of air purifiers, which today are plentiful in specialized stores, for every taste and budget.

Which air purifier to choose for an apartment - such a question arises among all consumers who decide to purchase this useful, and sometimes simply vital device. Air purifiers are usually sold in specialized stores that sell climate equipment, and there is such a wide range that it is easy to get confused when choosing the right model. Therefore, before you go shopping, you should understand all the advantages and disadvantages of devices that clean the air in different ways.

The main types of cleaners and their purpose

There are various types of air purifiers on the market that use different principles of operation, and each of them is able to solve certain problems of air pollution better than others. The most important component in the design of air cleaners is the filter - it is on it that the quality of cleaning the respiratory environment surrounding a person depends. Having an idea about the characteristics of the filters and their capabilities, it will be easier to decide which one is more suitable for a particular case.

Instruments with plasma (electrostatic) filters

Devices that clean the air using a plasma filter, in which an electrostatic field is created that attracts dust, have proven themselves well among consumers. Metal plates that act as a filter of this type are easily washed, so they do not need to be replaced - this factor is also quite attractive to users.

However, electrostatic devices are designed to remove a certain amount of dust from the air, which is 85 ÷ 90%, and if it is too much, then they may simply not be able to cope with it completely. Therefore, if better cleaning of the air masses of the apartment is required, for example, if allergy sufferers or people with asthma live in it, you should choose a device that includes several degrees of purification.

Devices - air ionizers

Ionizers are a complex consisting of several elements that carry out cleaning by different methods, so it is able to free air masses from various harmful impurities.

Air purification by this device is carried out in several stages:

• A powerful fan installed inside the device draws in polluted air masses.
• Further, the air is pre-cleaned using a coarse foam filter, which traps large dust particles.
• Then, in the air entering the photocatalyst filter, chemical and toxic substances are destroyed, and unpleasant odors are eliminated.

• A bactericidal ultraviolet lamp disinfects the air.
• Further, the plates, in which an electrostatic field is created, trap smaller, airborne dust particles.
• Then negative ions generated in a special device are fed into the air stream.
• At the last stage of the process, the disinfected and dust-free air is supplied to the room through the outlet grille of the device.

The advantage of air purifiers of this class is that they do not collect dust inside themselves, so its filter does not have to be changed, which will help to avoid significant maintenance costs for the device. It will be enough to periodically wash the metal plates and vacuum the pre-filter. However, using this type of air purifier, it is necessary to carry out wet or dry cleaning in the apartment as often as possible, removing dust from the surfaces that settle on them.

Instruments with HEPA filters

If high-quality air purification from dust is required, then devices with HEPA filters are the best option. The HEPA filter module itself (from the English “High Efficiency Particulate Arrestance”, that is, literally “highly efficient particle retention”) is a special configuration of a fibrous material folded into an “accordion”, with gaps between the fibers not exceeding a few microns.

A fan installed inside the device draws in air masses, which, passing through a HEPA filter, are completely cleaned even of microscopic dust particles, bacteria in it, as well as pollen from various plants by almost 100%. Therefore, this type of air purifier is perfect for apartments where people with a predisposition to allergic reactions live.

The device is freed from accumulated dust with a vacuum cleaner once a month, and the filter module is usually replaced once or twice a year, depending on its clogging and the quality of air purification.

Photocatalyst cleaners

Photocatalytic air purifiers, like the HEPA filter, include several stages of cleaning, therefore they are able to cope not only with dust particles of various sizes in the air, but also with dust mites and mold and fungus spores. But it is these factors that are one of the main reasons for the manifestation of allergies in various forms.

This type of air purifier necessarily has a catalyst and an ultraviolet radiation lamp in its design, but, in addition, the device can be supplemented with an ion generator, plates that create an electrostatic field or a carbon filter.

Contaminated air enters the instrument housing through the dust pre-filter installed at the inlet, and most of the large dust particles, as well as animal hair, are trapped in it.

Next, it enters a chamber where two factors interact - a catalyst and ultraviolet light emanating from a lamp, as a result of which a photocatalysis process occurs, in which toxic pollutants in the air decompose into harmless substances such as oxygen, water and carbon dioxide. . Thus, there is practically no dust sediment inside the device, so it does not require frequent filter replacement.

The air purifier, whose work is based on photocatalysis, is able to cope with the following negative factors:

• Phenol and formaldehyde fumes from the building materials used to make furniture, such as chipboard or fiberboard.
• Exhaust gas entering the apartment through gaps in window openings if the house is located near busy highways.
• Carbon monoxide and soot, which can appear in the air when burning a fireplace or stove.
• Tobacco smoke and persistent tobacco smell.
• Dust containing various harmful microorganisms - viruses and bacteria.
• Allergens of plant, domestic or animal origin.
• Toxic organic compounds that can come from solutions and powders of household chemicals.

Thus, photocatalysis can be called one of the most effective ways to purify air from pollution. In addition, a device of this class usually consumes a small amount of electricity, is environmentally friendly and safe, requiring minimal maintenance - cleaning with a vacuum cleaner once every six months.

The disadvantage of this air purifier can be called excessive cleaning of air masses, that is, not only from harmful microorganisms, but also from neutral ones, since it is not able to distinguish between them. This factor can negatively affect the immunity of the child, so you should not get carried away with excessive cleaning of the rooms where children live.

Air cleaner - ozonizer

An ozonizer is a device that purifies the air by releasing a small amount of ozone. Ozone is a gas derived from ordinary oxygen, which is destructive to all living things in high concentrations, which is why it is used to destroy microbes and disinfect premises. The gas arises as a result of the action of an electrical discharge on oxygen, splitting it into atoms - this process is familiar to everyone, since it occurs naturally during a thunderstorm, and after it a characteristic ozone smell appears on the street.

The principle of operation of the device, in principle, is based on the natural phenomenon of the collision of oxygen in the air with an electric current, which occurs artificially in the ozonator, resulting in the formation of ozone.

air purifier

There are different schemes of ozonizers, which may differ from each other in some details, but each of the devices also has elements that are integral to them - these are ozone generators (they can also differ in design), a mains voltage converter to high voltage and a fan.

This device is quite popular for home use, as it can create a number of positive effects:

• Disinfection of air masses in a house or apartment from pathogens, including mold.
• Getting rid of putrefactive odors.
• Purification of drinking water from chlorine and harmful metals.
• Purification of products such as fruits, vegetables and meat from antibiotics, chemicals.
• Disinfection and getting rid of odors in refrigerators.
• Ozone treatment of bedding, as well as underwear, shoes and even furniture.
• Cleaning of the appearance of mold in the filters of air conditioners.

However, with all the positive qualities of the ozonizer, doctors warn against an overdose of its impact on the human air environment. It is recommended to carefully use it in everyday life, strictly adhering to the instructions attached to it. Some experts advise generally using this device only at a time when there are no people in the house.

Air cleaners with carbon filters

Air purifiers equipped with carbon filters belong to the class of fine cleaning devices, and are able to purify air masses from various impurities, including gases. Typically, such purifiers are additionally equipped with a pre-cleaner element, as well as such as HEPA or a photocatalytic filter, since carbon filters are not able to qualitatively clean the air masses from eco-pollutants, which are abundant in urban apartments. In addition to additional filters, ultraviolet radiation lamps are added to this type of purifier, which are a good barrier to biological contaminants in the air.

Charcoal filters can be filled with fine activated charcoal powder, which creates a high resistance to airflow. From this it follows that it is better to choose air purifiers with a filter that have large granules in their composition. In addition, a pleated carbon filter is more effective for air purification than a universal mesh filter, as it has a large absorption area for small and large dust particles. Therefore, when choosing a device, you need to pay special attention to this fact.

Charcoal filters are changed in purifiers twice a year, otherwise they themselves begin to pollute the air - this is one of the characteristic shortcomings of devices of this class.

It is not necessary to install devices with carbon filters in rooms with high humidity, since coal absorbs moisture well, “sinters” and quickly loses its flowability and, accordingly, its cleaning qualities.

Hydrofiltration or air washing

Purifiers that use hydrofiltration or air washing work as follows:

• Air masses from the room are drawn into the device with the help of a fan.
• Further, they enter the zone, where, due to special rotor impellers with blades of a special configuration, they are mixed with water until an almost dispersed mixture is formed, and are cleaned from various impurities that settle in the device tray. Further, the purified air is separated and directed towards the outlets.

• Usually air washers have functions of ultraviolet and photocatalytic cleaning, which are switched on when necessary. When they interact, the most effective result is achieved - the device removes viruses, mold spores and various odors from the air.
• In addition, an air ionization module can be built into the general purification - it is negative ions that make the air cleaner and fresher.
• Purified and humidified air is supplied to the room.

Thus, such a device performs several functions - it humidifies the air in the room and removes small and large dust particles from it along with allergens, and also cleans it from extraneous odors. The efficiency of air purification using such a sink is estimated at 85÷95%.

Humidifiers-Air Purifiers

A humidifier is a device that creates an atmosphere in the room with the most comfortable level of humidity for a person by supplying purified steam. The device is set up by the owner himself, using the spray intensity regulator.

Humidifiers are divided into three types - these are ultrasonic, steam and traditional mechanical devices, but they all carry the function of an air purifier. The principle of operation of these devices is based on the evaporation of moisture or the formation of vapors as a result of ultrasonic exposure. Most household installations of this class are able not only to humidify, but also to aromatize the air.

• Ultrasonic devices are more modern options for humidifiers. They are equipped with a special ultrasonic membrane, upon contact with which water is split into tiny particles, so it turns into cold or heated steam. The generated steam is sprayed by means of a fan installed inside the apparatus.

The device is absolutely safe in all respects, so it is quite possible to install it in a children's room, especially since it works almost silently. In addition, the humidifier is economical in power consumption and easy to operate.

air purifier for apartment

• Mechanical humidifiers are considered traditional and the simplest in design. A certain volume of water is poured into a small water tank located inside the device case, from there it enters special moisturizing cartridges, through which air is circulated using a fan built into the middle of the device. When humidified, the air is simultaneously cleaned of dust particles. An important disadvantage for many consumers of such devices is a rather high noise level during its operation.

• Steam devices humidify the premises with hot steam, which is formed when water is heated to the boiling stage in a special insulated chamber equipped with a heating element with a non-stick coating. The disadvantages of such devices include very hot steam coming out, which can easily be burned, the noise of the humidifier during its operation, as well as high power consumption.

The positive qualities of a steam humidifier include the following points:

- the ability to use it as an inhaler - some models of devices are equipped with special nozzles for such physiotherapy procedures;

– the device is undemanding to the purity and hardness of water, therefore, when carrying out inhalation, aromatic oils can be added to it without fear;

- the humidifier, with its high performance, does not require the purchase of consumables at all - ordinary water is enough.

• Devices with a combined design combine a humidifier and a room air purifier. The fan draws in dirty air, which enters the rotating plastic discs built into the machine, which are in the water tank. In this section, the air is cleaned and humidified, and the dust precipitates. Therefore, such devices require periodic cleaning and flushing. The quality of air purification when using this device is 85÷90%.

Additional functions of air cleaners

Most models of air purifiers and humidifiers are equipped with additional features that simplify and make the operation of the devices as comfortable as possible. These include the following functions:

• The regulator of intensity of work of the device.
• Remote control.
• Display for displaying information about operating modes.

• Detectors that determine the level of air pollution, with which you can select the correct operating mode.
• Function of aromatization and inhalation.
• A timer that allows you to set the operating time and even carry out certain programming modes.

Air Purifier Selection Criteria

So, having figured out what air purifiers are, now you should determine what you need to pay attention to when purchasing an appliance.

• Any air purifier model is designed according to its capabilities for a certain area of ​​​​the room, therefore, and first of all, this parameter needs to be clarified.

In addition, you must immediately decide whether one or more air purifiers will be purchased, that is, the device will be transferred from room to room or fixed permanently:

- If a separate cleaner is provided for each of the rooms, then it is chosen exactly in accordance with its area.

- Provided that one cleaner is used in different rooms, its power is selected according to the area of ​​​​the largest room.

- If you plan to clean a very small room, then you can use an air cleaner designed for the car interior, as it has a fairly high power.

• The second question to be answered when choosing an air purification device is what types of pollution the air masses should be freed from.
• Further, it is advisable to immediately determine the comfort of servicing the air purifier, that is, to clarify which filter should be installed in it - replaceable or one that can be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner or rinsed under running water (the latter option will help avoid unnecessary operating costs).

- If you decide to choose a non-replaceable filter, then you should purchase photocatalytic, plasma (electrostatic) air cleaners or ozonizers, ionizers, as well as devices with an air washing function.

- In the case when preference is given to a purifier with replaceable filters, you need to make sure that it is equipped with an ionization function. This factor is extremely important, since the air, passing through the process of any filtration, loses not only harmful components, but also its useful qualities, that is, it becomes to a certain extent even dangerous for the residents of the apartment, so it should be enriched with ions.

• The air purifier will work efficiently if it is cleaned in time or the filters are changed. Therefore, you need to decide on the amount of time that can be allocated for its maintenance.

- If the device can be controlled daily, then you can choose a purifier with the function of "air washing" or its humidification. In such models, water is changed or added once every two to three days, and its quantity is checked every day.

- The electrostatic air cleaner should be serviced once a week - the electrostatic plates are washed, which act as a filter, attracting dust particles.

- If it is possible to service the device only once a month, then you should choose a photocatalytic cleaner, ozonator, ionizer or devices with replaceable filters, for example, with a HEPA filter - it will be enough to clean them from dust with a vacuum cleaner once a month.

air purifier ecology

• The next question to answer is how often will the device itself be used? It is advisable to use it constantly so that the air in the apartment is always clean.

- Under the condition of round-the-clock operation of the air cleaner and the desire to save on electricity, you should choose a device that consumes low power. This parameter can be found on the packaging of the device or in its passport.

- If the purifier will be used periodically, that is, turned off for a long time, then you should not choose a humidifier or “air wash”, because if water remains in such a device and it is not cleaned in time, then the contents may “sour”, and this the smell will remain in the container for a long time.

- If the user is ready to clearly follow all the instructions attached to the product - to clean and dry the device in time, then you can choose any option with the desired parameters.

• Next, you should decide on the functions that the air cleaner should perform - this is the most important criterion when choosing it.

Table of the possibilities of various air purification filters in neutralizing the factors of its pollution.

• Another important factor is the noise level of the air cleaner. In order not to cause discomfort to all residents of the apartment, you should purchase a device that has a night mode function or even a completely silent model. Such air purifiers include photocatalytic, ionizers, as well as those without a fan or with the function of turning it off.
• When deciding to purchase an air purifier, you must immediately decide on the place of its installation. On sale you can find floor, wall and desktop options. It is better not to choose the latter if there is a small child in the house, or in extreme cases, determine in advance for him a place at a certain height, unattainable for the baby. In addition, it is necessary to take into account the size of the device, since many floor-standing devices must be installed 150÷500 mm from the wall, and only such an arrangement will make it work effectively.
• It is recommended to make a list of all the necessary functions and features that an air purifier should have, and with a ready list of requirements, go to a store or to Internet shopping sites.

Brief overview of air cleaner models

Several popular models of air purifiers used in residential areas are shown in this table:

As can be seen from this table, air purifiers are mainly produced equipped with several stages of air purification, since this is the only way to achieve the maximum effect of clean home atmosphere. Therefore, it is necessary to understand well the issues for cleaning from which contaminants each of the filters is intended, and choose the version of the device that has all the necessary protective properties.

This information will help you make the right choice and not get lost in the wide range of air purifiers on sale.

At the end of the publication - a short video review of a modern multifunctional household air purifier:

Video: SHARP KC-850E Humidifier Air Purifier