Whole House Air Purifier Installation and Repair Tyler, TX

What Does an Air Purifier Do? 

An air purifier is a device designed to improve indoor air quality by removing airborne contaminants and pollutants. It filters out pet dander, volatile organic compounds, airborne illnesses, musty smells, and other contaminants through a forced air heating and cooling system. They also keep your AC coil clean and allow your HVAC system to run more efficiently.

The primary functions of an air purifier include the following.

• Particle Filtration: Many air purifiers use filters, such as HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, to capture airborne particles like dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and smoke. These filters can effectively remove even microscopic particles from the air. 
• Allergen Reduction: By capturing allergens such as pollen, pet dander, and dust mites, air purifiers can reduce allergen levels in indoor environments. This can help alleviate allergy symptoms and improve respiratory health for individuals with allergies or asthma.
• Odor Elimination: Some air purifiers feature activated carbon filters or other technologies designed to adsorb and neutralize odors from sources like cooking, pets, smoke, and household chemicals. 
• Virus and Bacteria Removal: Certain air purifiers may incorporate UV-C light or other germicidal technologies to target and deactivate viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms present in the air.
• Improved Air Circulation: By continuously circulating and filtering the air, air purifiers can help maintain consistent indoor air quality throughout your home or office space, reducing the concentration of pollutants and creating a healthier living environment.

How Does an Air Purifier Work?

An air purifier works by drawing in air from its surrounding environment through HVAC air ducts and passing it through a series of filters or purification technologies designed to capture or neutralize airborne contaminants. These filters may include HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, activated carbon filters, or other specialized filtration media. 

As the air circulates, particles such as dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and smoke are trapped, while odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) may be adsorbed or neutralized. Some air purifiers also utilize UV-C light or other germicidal technologies to target and deactivate viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms. Once purified, the system releases clean air back into the environment, creating a healthier indoor space with improved air quality.

How Long Does It Take for an Air Purifier to Work?

Air purifiers can start to remove airborne contaminants from the air almost immediately after being turned on. However, noticeable improvements in air quality may take some time, ranging from a few hours to several days, especially in larger spaces or in environments with high levels of pollutants. Consistent use of the air purifier over time is typically necessary to maintain optimal indoor air quality.

Does an Air Purifier Dry Out the Air?

In general, most air purifiers do not directly dry out the air. However, certain types of air purifiers may contribute to a slight decrease in humidity levels over time due to increased air circulation. Additionally, if you use an air purifier in conjunction with a dehumidifier or in a naturally dry environment, it may contribute to a perception of drier air. However, the primary function of an air purifier is to remove airborne contaminants, not to alter humidity levels.

To maintain optimal indoor air quality and comfort, it’s essential to monitor humidity levels and use a humidifier if necessary to add moisture to the air as needed.

How to Tell If Your Air Purifier Is Working

One way to understand the effectiveness of air filters is to look at their MERV ratings. MERV stands for “Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value.” This nationally-recognized measurement system is used to rate every air filter based on its ability to filter particles of certain sizes. The lowest MERV rating is 1, and the highest MERV rating is 20. The higher the MERV rating of your filter, the more effective it is at filtering pollutants and contaminants.

You can also look at certain details around your home to determine how well your whole house air purifier works.

• Air Quality: One of the most apparent signs that your air purifier is working is an improvement in indoor air quality. You may notice reduced dust accumulation on surfaces, fewer odors, and a decrease in allergy or respiratory symptoms.
• Airflow and Noise: Listen for the sound of the air purifier’s fan or airflow. You should be able to hear the fan operating, and you may feel air being drawn into the unit.
• Indicator Lights: Many air purifiers are equipped with indicator lights or displays that provide information about the unit’s operation, such as power status, filter replacement reminders, or air quality levels.
• Smell Test: If your air purifier has a built-in carbon or charcoal filter for odor removal, you may notice a reduction in unpleasant odors after the air purifier has been running for some time.
• Particle Counters: For a more precise assessment of air quality, you can use a particle counter to measure the concentration of airborne particles in the room before and after running the air purifier.