10 tips for choosing an air purifier

If you opened this article, then you probably no longer have the question Why do you need an air purifier? But how to choose an air purifier that will last for many years, will clean the air in the room, solving all the problems associated with air pollution, and will not break down and make a lot of noise is not an easy task. There is so much climate control equipment on the Russian market today that even a professional will not always immediately understand which air purifier is better, and it’s quite easy for an ordinary person who has not previously been interested in air purifiers to get confused. We don’t want to leave you alone with the problem of choosing an air purifier, and we will honestly tell you about all the advantages and disadvantages of different devices. Here are our tips:

Decide what problems you are going to solve with the help of an air purifier.

Its price will depend on this. There are many air purification technologies, each of which solves some problems better than others. The cost of the air purifier will depend on how many cleaning technologies the selected air purifier model uses.

Large amount of dust.
Air purifiers with HEPA filters : the filter is easy to maintain: vacuumed once a month and changed every six months to a year, depending on the degree of air pollution. A HEPA filter is the most effective means of removing dust, because... form a continuous barrier in the path of moving air, and even a microscopic speck of dust or bacteria will not be able to fly past, lingering in the pores of the filter. When a high degree of dust removal is required, an air purifier with a HEPA filter is the best choice.
Air purifiers - ionizers deposit dust flying in the air onto horizontal surfaces, thereby purifying the air. They do not collect dust inside the air cleaner housing; you do not have to wash or change the filter. Therefore, such air purifiers are suitable for those who want to avoid additional costs for maintaining an air purifier, but are willing to more often collect dust from surfaces with a vacuum cleaner or rag.
Allergy to dust. The main problem here is the smallest dust invisible to the eye; it is this that causes sneezing attacks, redness of the eyes and allergic runny nose in allergy sufferers. Your choice
1. Air purifiers with HEPA filters remove the smallest particles of dust from the air, cleaning efficiency is up to 99.9%. The best way to prevent allergies has not yet been invented.
Air washers – purify the air by passing it through a sprayed suspension of water. Water washes away the smallest particles of pollutants, leaving no chance for them to return to the air in the room. Air washes with pre-ionization are the most effective, because... charged dust is better attracted to the drum plates. Cleaning efficiency – 80-95%.
Air purifiers-humidifiers - humidify using an evaporation filter located in the water or water sprayed inside the device itself. Cleaning is also carried out using a water suspension. Cleaning quality 80-90%.
Air purifiers - ionizers with remote ionization, which produce a large number of ions around the air purifier, are able to remove a maximum of allergens from the air, depositing them on the surface.

It is important to remember that allergies are caused not only by the dust itself, but also by the dust mites, mold, and fungus contained in it, and by destroying them, you will eliminate the very cause of the allergy. Photocatalytic air purifiers and air purifiers - ozonizers will help to cope with dust mites and mold, but photocatalysis and ozonation in the selected air purifier must be supplemented by one of the previous cleaning options - a filter that removes the dust itself.

Photocatalytic air purifiers purify and disinfect the air through the interaction of UV light and a catalyst, decompose toxic chemical compounds, and destroy microorganisms.
Air purifiers - ozonizers - ozone also decomposes toxic substances, kills microorganisms and germs due to its powerful oxidizing properties. Ozonizers can be used when there are no people in the room.

Tobacco smoke, any other smoke. Your choice

Photocatalytic air purifiers - ionizers , it is better if they have an electrostatic filter, because it is easier to wash it from precipitated nicotine resins. If you choose a HEPA filter, you will have to change it quite often. Photocatalysis breaks down the toxic elements of tobacco smoke, ionization disperses the smoke, and the electrostatic precipitator precipitates tar and purifies using microdoses of ozone.

Air purifiers - ozonizers decompose smoke into harmless carbon dioxide and water.

Air washers are less effective because... they do not have time to capture most of the smoke rapidly rising upward, and water itself is not so effective against smoke.

Air purifiers with carbon filters also do not have a high degree of efficiency, since quickly driving smoky air through the air cleaner body (so that smoke particles are adsorbed by the filter) is quite problematic.

Unpleasant odors (car, industrial emissions from windows, kitchen smell, burning, rot, from pets, finishing materials, office equipment, etc.)

Photocatalytic air purifiers

Air purifiers - ozonizers - oxidize and break down any chemical and organic components in the air, including odors.

Air purifiers with carbon filters - odor molecules are adsorbed in micropores on the surface of carbon granules, but the efficiency of a carbon filter will be several times lower than a photocatalytic one.

Air disinfection (if children or you yourself often get sick, during epidemics of viral diseases, in children's institutions, etc.). You better choose

Photocatalytic air purifiers are disinfectants that disinfect air using ultraviolet light and photocatalysis reactions, in which most microbes, bacteria and viruses die.

Air purifiers - ozonizers are the best choice, because... Ozone is 2-3 times more effective than ultraviolet radiation, i.e. It will take much less time to process. In standard mode, such devices are capable of disinfecting air using ionization.

Significant dryness of the air in addition to its pollution.

Air purifiers-humidifiers

Air washers – purify the air with water and at the same time humidify it.

Poor health, lethargy, fatigue, poor sleep, frequent illness.You should choose

Ionizer

Air purifier - ozonizer - ozone in small doses is very good for health and is a natural immunostimulant.

3. Decide whether you are ready to incur additional costs for maintaining the selected air purifier or whether you want to buy it now and in the future spend a minimum of money on maintaining clean air.

If spending doesn’t bother you, you can safely choose air purifiers with filters; they have the highest degree of air purification, because... Several stages of air purification are better in any case. If additional costs are burdensome for you, then choose filterless air purifiers: air purifiers - ionizers, ozonizers, photocatalytic, electrostatic (plasma), air washers.

Best Air Purifiers

For most potential buyers of such goods, important criteria are price and its compliance with quality. This means that it is advisable to start listing and analyzing in detail the best air purifiers with inexpensive models.

Ballu AP-110

Another niche in the ranking of the best devices of this profile is occupied by the Ballu AP-110 model; according to customer reviews, it fully corresponds to the price-quality ratio. An interesting design involves a combination of a snow-white body with black inserts; such neutral shades will fit into any interior. An ultraviolet lamp disinfects the air, which means it helps to avoid diseases. The built-in filtration system helps remove dust, microorganisms, and viruses, and indexing will allow you to find out in time if the filters are clogged. The device will be most productive in a room of up to 20 square meters. m.

Expensive parts and high-quality assembly
Quiet operation
System with several filters and indexing of their clogging
Durability of service
Compact size
Floor and tabletop installation

Backlighting can be disturbing at night
The timer only works to turn off the device

Polaris PPA 4045Rbi

The first thing that catches your eye is the interesting shape of the device and the deep black color of the panel. The work area reaches 24 square meters. m., which is slightly more than previous competitors. Control is done using the remote control, which is much more convenient. An ionization option is provided, and the operating power is 40 W. It is possible to regulate the speed of operation, and in addition, an aromatization function is offered. The device is powered by the network.

Interesting appearance
Good air purification
Simple remote control
Affordable price
Quiet operation at any speed

It’s not always possible to find filters to change
There is no information display on the case

Atmos Vent-610

This device is a purifier-fragrance agent; it contains several fans for rapid mixing of air with the fragrance molecules contained in the structure of the plates. The user can independently adjust odors by changing such plates. Ease of control is due to the presence of LED backlighting, the operating power is 30 W, the area of the processed room is 20 sq. m. m. You can connect it either to the network or using a USB cable to a computer.

4 selections of flavors in plates
Energy-saving cyclic operation
Powered by 4 batteries, USB or mains power
Compact size
Interesting “Droplet” case shape

Suitable for small movements
The flavor may not be suitable in case of allergies

Philips AC2887

An air purifier with a pollution indicator automatically captures the smallest particles and turns on the corresponding indication on the display. Touch control with a choice of three modes: standard, for allergy sufferers and delay of bacteria and viruses. A highly sensitive sensor informs you when the filter needs to be replaced. If this is not done, the device will not turn on. Carbon and HEPA filters are built inside. But many buyers complain about expensive consumables and poor oxygen purification.

eliminates unpleasant odors
assesses the level of oxygen pollution
there are several operating modes

expensive consumables that require frequent replacement during intensive use

REDMOND RAC-3708

The air intake is on the sides, and the outlet of pure oxygen is on top. Inside there is a large fan that circulates the air in the room through pre-filters, carbon filters and HEPA (class 13) filters. It is also possible to turn on ionization and a UV lamp, but the processing in this device is weak. If necessary, you can set the shutdown timer for up to 8 hours. It eliminates odors poorly and makes a lot of noise even at first speed. Due to the good fan power, some users use the devices to blow their apartment on hot summer days.

stylish design
strong fan and high-quality cleaning
multi-stage filtration
affordable price

weak UV lamp

Boneco P340

Stylish purifier with three filters: pre-filter, carbon and HEPA. On the display you can separately turn on ionization, set a shutdown timer at intervals of 1, 2, 4 and 8 hours, and also adjust the intensity of air supply to the apartment. Thus, you can regulate the modes and purification of oxygen from dust, wool, pollen and bacteria. Ionization will allow you to better get rid of contamination. If any particles pass through multi-layer filtration, they will settle on the floor and furniture. Therefore, within 2 hours after treatment you need to carry out wet cleaning. The maximum productivity of the device is 230 cubic meters. m. per hour.

copes well with its tasks
there is additional ionization
three-stage filtration

high cost of consumables that need to be changed once a year

Ecology-Plus Super-Plus-Turbo

An improved model that guarantees an optimal level of indoor air ionization.
Portable microclimate purifier with 4 operating modes, designed for use in large rooms. The control unit is equipped with an electronic system for monitoring cartridge contamination, informing about the need to clean the air cleaner, which simplifies the operation of the device. Simultaneously with air purification, the device ionizes it and also eliminates unpleasant odors. Specifications:

power consumption – 10 W;

filter elements – electrostatic;

control – electronic;

installation – desktop, floor;

Dimensions – 27.5x19.5x14.5 cm.

high cleaning efficiency
several operating modes to choose from
fan speed adjustment
filter contamination indication
compactness

need for regular cleansing
smell of ozone at maximum power
no carrying handle

Dyson Pure Cool TP05

An original device that combines the functions of a purifier and a fan.
The productivity of the purifier is quite small - about 100 cubic meters. m/h, but the quality of air purification is very high thanks to a 3-stage filtration system. HEPA and carbon filters retain up to 99.95% of dust, allergens and volatile compounds, and special impregnation of carbon helps neutralize formaldehyde. Like a fan, Dyson allows you to adjust the direction and power of the airflow. There is no control panel as such on the case (there is only an on/off button). All settings are made from the remote control or via Wi-Fi via an application on a smartphone. In the application you can monitor the level of air pollution and filters. The device has an automatic operating mode and several manual settings. Peculiarities:

minimalistic, but stylish and effective design;

due to the absence of grilles and blades, the device is easy to care for;

There is a shutdown timer ranging from 15 minutes to 9 hours.

carbon filter, HEPA filter
work speed adjustment
change in air flow and humidity
remote control

Timberk TAP FL70 SF

Tabletop model TAP FL70 SF from the famous manufacturer of climate control equipment Timberk. The company provides a 12-month warranty, which is quite sufficient considering the price of the product. At the same time, the device has an elegant design, expressed in glossy plastic. Ease of use is due to the presence of an I-Touch touch control panel. A good level of purification is due to the presence of a high-quality HEPA filter. There is a turn-on timer for 4-8 hours. The advantages include the ability to adjust power in three ranges, as well as a carbon filter to remove unpleasant odors.

there is a timer
carbon filter
good HEPA filter
compact dimensions

for that price, no

Hisense AE-33R4BNS/AE-33R4BFS

Attractive in appearance, and, most importantly, effective air purifier-humidifier of the ECOLife series. An important feature of the complex is the use of innovative technology from Panasonic NANOE™. Microparticles of water molecules with a long life cycle are a billion times smaller than a vapor particle, and also contain 1000 times more moisture than a negatively charged ion. This allows nanoions to penetrate deeply into almost any tissue and effectively destroy harmful microorganisms and unpleasant odors, and the process of saturating the air with moisture occurs more intensively. The comprehensive cleaning and moistening system consists of 5 stages. Preliminary, HEPA and deodorizing filters retain dust, allergens, wool, pollen, and eliminate odors. The humidifying module made of Fibra CHM material provides moisture evaporation at a rate of up to 500 ml/h. At the final stage, the air is enriched with nanoions. Supported: indication of operating modes, temperature and humidity, timer function. There are automatic, night, quiet (Quiet) and turbo modes. Air quality is controlled by a special sensor.

Designed for an area of up to 40 m²
4 fan speeds
Warranty – 24 months

Large dimensions
Small water tank

Sharp KC-D51RW

An effective climate complex designed for cleaning, humidifying and ionizing air in residential areas up to 38 m².
The device is made in a stylish modern design with a predominance of white color. Medium dimensions and the presence of wheels make it easy to move the device to the place where the effect of its use is most necessary and important. There are three main operating modes:

Air cleaning. A three-stage system is used, consisting of a preliminary, deodorizing filter, as well as highly efficient HEPA, which filters up to 99.97% of the smallest particles. The use of unique Plasmacluster ionization technology allows you to deactivate airborne bacteria, viruses, mold spores and other allergens;
Cleaning and moisturizing. Evaporation of moisture occurs in a natural (cold) way without the risk of waterlogging and the appearance of plaque on the furniture;
Ion rain. Simultaneous humidification and ionization enhance the effectiveness of purifying the air from impurities, and also help eliminate unpleasant odors and static electricity.

The device is equipped with intelligent electronic control with support for dust, temperature and humidity sensors.

Beautiful design
Efficient and quiet operation
Air exchange – up to 306 m³/h, maximum humidification performance – 600 ml/h
Adequate price

Water evaporates quickly from the tank
Not very high performance
No remote control

Venta LW25

The best humidifier-air purifier for an apartment. Designed for a room from 20 to 40 sq.m. This “air washer” does not have replaceable filters; they are all washable, so you don’t have to spend extra money on consumables. Along with ordinary water (7 liter tank), you can use flavoring additives. Antibacterial water protection is also provided using the Venta-Hygienemittel system. The noise level at maximum mode is decent, and at minimum it is quite suitable for use at night.

Simple design
Reliable and safe
Auto shut off without water
Possibility of connecting a humidity sensor
No replaceable components
This air washer is manufactured in Germany, the warranty period is 10 years

Noisy at maximum power

5. Answer yourself honestly how often and how much time you can devote to your air purifier.

It cleans the air for you, but you, in turn, must clean it, otherwise it simply will not be able to work and will break.

If you are ready to use it every day, choose an air washer or an air purifier-humidifier - you will have to change the water in them every three days and add water when it runs out.
If it is not burdensome for you to take care of your air purifier once a week, your choice is an electrostatic (plasma) air purifier. About once a week you need to wash the electrostatic plates (filter) in it.
If you want to spend a minimum of effort and remember to clean the device only once a month, then you should choose an air purifier - ionizer, photocatalytic purifier, air purifier - ozonizer or a purifier with replaceable filters (usually HEPA filters), which only need to be vacuumed once a month.

How to choose an air purifier for an apartment?

An air purifier is a filter system that absorbs small particles of dust, pollen and other contaminants that can cause allergies. The device is also capable of eliminating unpleasant odors, so this device is indispensable for apartments and houses with small children, people prone to allergies or chronic respiratory diseases.

When choosing an air purifier, pay attention to the following technical characteristics:

Room area . This is the main selection criterion, since the power of the device must clearly correspond to the area of the room.
Frequency of use . This indicator determines how often the user will have to change filters. If the device will be used daily, it is better to choose a device with replaceable filters that can be changed when dirty. For purifiers that you plan to use from time to time, you can buy a model with a non-removable filter.
Noise level . If the purifier will work at night or in a room with small children, it is better to choose a model with a special night mode.

Attention is also paid to additional functions: the presence of an intensity regulator, remote control from a remote control or smartphone, a timer, a display and an air aromatization function.

Consider how often you plan to use the air purifier.

It is optimal that it always works, and that the air in the room is always clean and has high quality indicators necessary for your health.

If you plan to operate the air purifier around the clock, and savings are important to you, choose an air purifier with low energy consumption (see the parameter - power consumption).
If periodic use of an air purifier is optimal for you, then air washers or air purifiers-humidifiers, which cannot be left idle for a long time with water filled with water, are unlikely to suit you. it may turn sour. If you are ready to drain the water every time, disassemble the air purifier and dry the parts, then the choice of air washers or air purifiers-humidifiers should not scare you.

Decide what features you need and who in your family will control the air purifier settings.

Do you need several fan speeds to choose more intensive or background air purification and reduce noise at night? Or do you want your air purifier to have maximum capabilities - a timer for automatic cleaning in certain modes, air pollution sensors, a hygrometer (for measuring humidity), night lighting, a function for air disinfection in the absence of people? As you understand, all the additional “bells and whistles” cost extra money, so decide right away whether you want to have them, or you won’t use them and will only get confused in a large number of buttons and modes. It all depends on what exactly you want to get: for some, it’s important to have all kinds of functions, but for others, they simply don’t want to understand them. So decide right away so you don’t regret it later.