There's no secret about the fact that air pollution is real and nasty. WHO states that 9 out of 10 people breathe polluted air which results in an estimated 7 million premature deaths every year. But what about indoor air pollution? Well, it can be equally disastrous as well.
If you have been considering ways to improve the air quality in your home, you may have come across the term "air scrubber." But what exactly is an air scrubber and do you really need one in your home? Let's find out!
What are Air Scrubbers and What is Their Mechanism of Action?
Air scrubbers are devices designed to sanitize indoor air by removing airborne contaminants, germs, viruses, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and odors. There are whole-house and portable versions of air scrubbers, each with distinct technologies.
Mechanism of Action:
Filtration Process: Air scrubbers utilize titanium-oxide-coated rods and ultraviolet (UV) light to alter the DNA of germs and viruses, rendering them harmless. Portable versions employ a series of filters, including a HEPA filter and a carbon filter, to remove pollutants.
UV-C Light Disinfection: UV-C light is employed to disinfect the air by neutralizing the DNA of microorganisms, preventing their reproduction.
Chemical Adsorption: Air scrubbers can use wet or dry scrubbing methods to remove contaminants from the air. Wet scrubbers use a damp filter, while dry scrubbers use a dry filter to trap particles.
Reasons to Install an Air Scrubber in your home
Indoor air quality (IAQ) plays a pivotal role in the overall well-being of individuals, and installing an air scrubber in your home can bring about a multitude of advantages, which are:
1. Improved IAQ
Benefits of Air Scrubbers: Investing in an air scrubber for your home offers immense advantages, with one being a significant reduction in particulate matter. These powerful systems effectively capture and eliminate airborne particles such as dust, allergens, and fine particulate matter, resulting in a visibly cleaner and healthier indoor environment.
Fighting Microbial Contaminants: Apart from tackling visible pollutants, air scrubbers are also highly effective in eliminating invisible threats. Through the use of UV-C light and advanced filtration processes, these systems can precisely target and neutralize germs, viruses, and other microbial contaminants. This not only improves air quality but also serves as a proactive defense against potential infections and illnesses.
2. Health Benefits:
Respiratory Health Improvement: The impact of clean air on respiratory health cannot be overstated. Installing an air scrubber translates into a proactive measure to improve respiratory health, reducing the likelihood of respiratory issues such as asthma or irritation of the respiratory system.
Alleviating Allergies: For those who struggle with allergies, an air scrubber can be a trusted companion in reducing symptoms. By eliminating common allergens like pollen, pet dander, and mold spores, these systems create an atmosphere that promotes allergy relief for everyone in the household.
Potential Long-term Health Benefits: By consistently using air scrubbers, individuals can experience long-term health advantages. In particular, those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. So, incorporating an air scrubber into your home could bring lasting benefits to you and your loved ones. With cleaner air, you can breathe easier and enjoy a peaceful life.
3. Protection of HVAC System:
Prevention of Mold Growth: Mold, a common indoor pollutant, not only poses health risks but can also compromise the integrity of HVAC systems. Air scrubbers play a pivotal role in preventing mold growth by effectively reducing moisture levels and eliminating mold spores from the air, thereby safeguarding both residents and the HVAC infrastructure.
Extending the Lifespan of HVAC Components: The positive impact of air scrubbers extends beyond immediate health benefits to the longevity of HVAC components.
If you succeed in maintaining a cleaner and healthier environment, these systems contribute to the efficient operation of HVAC units. And therefore, potentially extending their lifespan and reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
With that said, the decision to install an air scrubber in your home supports the idea of cleanliness; it becomes a strategic investment in the health and well-being of your household.
From addressing immediate concerns such as respiratory health and allergy relief to safeguarding the structural integrity of your HVAC system, air scrubbers emerge as indispensable allies in creating a home environment that fosters both comfort and longevity.
Things to Consider Before Installing an Air Scrubber at Home
Sizing and Capacity:
Matching Air Scrubber Size to Room/Area: Consider the size of the area to be covered and choose an air scrubber with the appropriate capacity
Considering Air Changes per Hour (ACH): Evaluate the air changes per hour needed for effective purification based on room size.
Maintenance Requirements:
Filter Replacement: Understand the frequency of filter replacement for both whole-house and portable air scrubbers.
UV-C Light Bulb Replacement: UV-C light bulbs may need replacement, and understanding the maintenance requirements is crucial.
Cleaning Procedures: Regular cleaning procedures to maintain optimal functionality.
Comparison with Alternative IAQ Solutions
1. Air Purifiers vs. Air Scrubbers:
Differential Filtration Technologies: A critical aspect of the comparison lies in the diverse filtration technologies employed by air purifiers and air scrubbers. While both share the goal of enhancing IAQ, their methods differ significantly.
Air purifiers primarily focus on internal filtration within the device, utilizing electrically charged filters to separate positive and negative ions.
On the contrary, air scrubbers adopt a search-and-retrieve method, actively seeking out pollutants through wet or dry scrubbing techniques, making them adept at eliminating a broad spectrum of contaminants.
Comparative Effectiveness: Assessing the effectiveness of air purifiers and air scrubbers unveils nuances that influence their suitability for specific environments. Air purifiers excel in cleaning the air within a confined space, typically covering up to 200 square feet per unit.
However, air scrubbers surpass this limitation by having a more extensive airflow capacity, capable of purifying the air in larger spaces and even multiple rooms simultaneously. Moreover, when equipped with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, air scrubbers prove to be more efficient at capturing mold and bacteria particles than their air purifier counterparts.
2. HVAC System Upgrades
HVAC System Upgrades:
A critical consideration in the comparison involves understanding how air scrubbers complement HVAC systems. Air scrubbers can be seamlessly integrated into HVAC systems, working in tandem to enhance IAQ.
This collaboration ensures that the entire indoor environment is consistently purified, addressing pollutants not only in the air but also on surfaces. The harmonious relationship between air scrubbers and HVAC systems underscores their collective effectiveness in creating a healthier living space.
The decision-making process is inevitably influenced by cost considerations and the performance of the chosen IAQ solution. While air purifiers necessitate regular filter replacements throughout the year, incurring additional maintenance costs, air scrubbers present a more cost-effective alternative. Air scrubbers, with their ability to purify the air up to four times per hour, demonstrate efficiency that not only rivals but often surpasses that of air purifiers.
The dual functionality of air scrubbers, capable of purifying the air and surfaces, adds an extra layer of value, making them a prudent choice for those seeking a comprehensive IAQ solution.
Conclusion
So, to sum it up, deciding whether to get an air scrubber for your home means thinking about how it works, why you want it, the health perks, maintenance needs, and comparing it to other air quality options. When you grasp how it affects indoor air and your health, it helps you choose wisely.
Furthermore, if you’re looking forward to improving your indoor air quality, do check out Abestorm’s air scrubbers. They’re one of the finest!
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