Tips on Choosing Between Air Sanitizers and Purifiers
With indoor air reported to have around five times as many contaminants and pollutants as the air outdoors, many homeowners are turning to household appliances that may help increase their indoor air quality. But when it comes down to UV air sanitizers versus air purifiers, homeowners can feel unsure which way to go.
In this article, expert HVAC contractors share information about both and help homeowners decide which one to choose.
What Exactly Are UV Air Sanitizers and Air Purifiers?
Before discussing either system's benefits, it's important to define what UV air sanitizers and air purifiers are.
UV air sanitizers use a special form of UV light called UV-C. It is one of the three different "types" of UV light produced by the sun, but here, the UV-C light is manufactured by the sanitizer. The UV-C light produced and utilized by UV air sanitizers reduces both the growth and development of the different microbiological organisms that can cause problems to humans if they're in the air (fungi, viruses, and bacteria).
On the other hand, air purifiers don't kill the particles in the air but instead filter them out. This also includes other household air impurities like smoke, dust, pet dander, spores, and odors. They draw the air in and force it through an air filter made of fiberglass, mesh, or paper, capturing the unwanted particles and only letting pure air back through.
Is There a Benefit of One Over the Other?
It all comes down to personal preference. Some homeowners prefer the idea of having germs neutralized in the air, while others are happier with them being filtered out.
There are air purifiers that also feature UV technology, combining the best of both worlds for those who can't decide. There does tend to be more research that shows that air purifiers are more proven to work than UV air sanitizers, but that's also because they featured newer technology, and not a lot of research has been done on them.
Reasons the Home Could Benefit From Either System
In reality, any home can benefit from having an extra air sanitizer or purifier in it. However, homes that have members who have asthma or allergies, or who are immunocompromised for any reason, may find extra benefits in having cleaner air. It even improves sleep!
Also, having an additional device that helps clean the air helps the HVAC system not have to work as hard to either cool or heat the home. The less particulate matter that makes its way into the HVAC system, the less friction and resistance the system will have as it runs.
However, it's important to remember that none of that matters without regular home maintenance and inspection. Filters will need to be changed regularly, and the HVAC system will need to be checked at least twice a year to make sure it is running efficiently and without problems.
About Elite Electric & Air
Elite Electric & Air has been located in Jupiter, Florida for more than 30 years. They offer 24 hours a day/7 days a week, 365 days a year emergency service. With on-time arrival and 100% satisfaction guaranteed, they are a completely dependable HVAC company.