When it comes to air purification, there are a lot of options out there. From HEPA filters to activated carbon filters, it can be hard to know which one is the best choice for your home. To help you make an informed decision, we've put together a guide to the different types of air filters and their benefits. HEPA filters are the most popular type of air filter and are known for their ability to remove at least 99.97% of airborne allergens and contaminants, including mold spores and dust that are as small as 0.3 microns.
In tests conducted by Consumer Reports, HEPA filters were rated “Excellent” on both the highest and lowest speed settings. The Blueair Classic 605 is one example of a HEPA filter that has earned this rating. It uses the brand's HepaSilent technology, which the company says can filter 99.97 percent of particles down to 0.1 microns. Activated carbon filters are another popular type of air filter.
They are designed to absorb odors and gases from the air, making them ideal for homes with smokers or pets. The Coway HEPA air purifier is one example of an activated carbon filter that has been tested in real-world environments and found to be effective in reducing odors and gases from the air. VOC filters are also available and are designed to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air. VOCs can come from a variety of sources, including paint, cleaning products, and car exhaust.
The Förnuftig air purifier is one example of a VOC filter that has been tested in real-world environments and found to be effective in reducing VOCs from the air. However, it should be noted that the VOC filter must be purchased separately from the main unit. Finally, some air purifiers come with additional features such as apps or timers that allow you to customize your air purification experience. The Coway HEPA air purifier, for example, comes with an app that allows you to choose between several modes (to keep the air absolutely cleaner possible at the expense of a higher and noisier fan speed, for example, or run a deep cleaning cycle one hour before bedtime and then lower the cycle to keep the machine running in a quiet environment while you sleep).
When choosing an air purifier for your home, it's important to consider factors such as noise level, energy consumption, filter type, MERV rating, and overall value. It's also important to remember that not all air purifiers are suitable for eliminating all allergens, so it's important to check the product description for clean air supply rate (CADR). After taking all these factors into consideration, you should be able to find an air purifier that meets your needs.