HEPA Air Purifiers: Significantly reduces indoor contaminants including the covid -19
Running a HEPA air purifier in your home can be a fantastic idea anytime, to help filter indoor contaminants and pollutants such as fumes from cleaning and cooking solutions. And that is especially true today when so many men and women are stuck indoors 24/7 due to the coronavirus pandemic.
However, you can also be wondering if an air purifier can prevent COVID-19 by catching virus particles which may be traveling in the atmosphere.
If someone in your household is ill with COVID-19, running an air conditioner in their family room might help protect other family members or caregivers. The same holds for healthcare workers that are self-quarantining when they come home.
While the majority of these droplets fall to the floor fast, some research indicates s
maller particles may stay in the atmosphere for longer.
However, even if you live with a healthcare worker or someone sick with COVID-19 until you run out to purchase an air purifier, our experts say that just opening the windows in your house to allow in the fresh air will significantly help dilute indoor contaminants–such as virus particles.
If airing out space is not an alternative, you could try using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifier.
A HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter may be a significant part of common air purifier systems promising to improve the air quality in your house or office. Let us take a look at what the HEPA normal means and the way the HEPA filter can cope with different kinds of indoor contaminants, pollutants, and viruses in your dwelling.
A quick insight into HEPA air purifiers
HEPA is an acronym that stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air, so a HEPA filter surely be a High-Efficiency Particulate filter. Filters, if for an air purifier or alternative execution, come with many benefits and claims.
What sets HEPA filters apart from the rest is that their claims are more than just claims. The Institute of Environmental Sciences and Technology dictates that a HEPA filter has to trap 99.97% of particulates 0.3 microns or larger. This doesn’t mean that the filter can’t trap particles smaller than 0.3 microns, because many HEPA filters may; it is just the threshold that has to be reached so as to carry the HEPA name.
HEPA filters capture variously sized particles inside a multi-layered netting usually made up of very fine fiberglass threads (much thinner than the scale of somebody’s hair strand!) With varying sized openings.The filter is airtight and comprised of a dense sheet of small fibers pleated and sealed in an exceedingly plastic or metal frame. The air purifier’s fan pulls air into the filter and particulates are captured in the filter. The larger particles (ones larger than the fibers) are recorded via impaction (particle crashes to the fiber), mid-sized particles are recorded by interception (particle touches the fiber and is recorded ), and ultra-fine particles are recorded by diffusion (whereas zig-zagging the particle will eventually hit and adhere to the fiber).
The Best HEPA Air Purifiers for 2020
- Blueair Blue Pure 411 – An overall best and efficient air purifier
- Dimplex DXAPV3N Air Purifier with HEPA filter and Ioniser – one of the best budget air purifier
- Dyson Pure Cool Me – the top of air purifier fan
- Philips Series 3000i AC3829 – the best of air purifier on wheels
- Meaco MeacoClean CA-HEPA 47×5 – considering the best choice as air purifier for bedrooms
- Alen BreatheSmart Classic Large Room Air Purifier
- Honeywell True HEPA Allergen Air Purifier
- Molekule Air Purifier
- Levoit Compact Air Purifier
- Coway AP-1512HH Mighty- An Effective, efficient, and inexpensive air purifier
How can HEPA filters work?
To put it simply, HEPA filters trap air contaminants in an intricate web of fibers. Based upon the size of the particle, this may occur in four unique ways: Inertial Impaction, Diffusion, Interception, or Sieving.
Bigger contaminants are trapped via inertial impaction and sieving. The particles collide with the fibers and all are being trapped while trying to travel through the fibers. Moderately sized particles, as they proceed through the filter, are caught by the fibers through interception. The Smaller particles are dissipated when they travel through the filter and theneventually touch the fiber and are trapped.
HEPA filters have been around for decades, and, to be categorized as true HEPA, they need to have the ability to eliminate over 99.9% of particles larger than.3 microns in size. In contrast, most research indicates that the average size of a household dust particle is.5 to many microns in size, while mold spores and pollen are greater than 10.
Tobacco smoke and other odor particles are found to return in sizes on all sides of the.3 micron threshold, and there is a specially designed standard filter for all these types of particles that are used along with HEPA filters: triggered Carbon filters.
How can a HEPA Air Purifier Capture indoor contaminants and the Coronavirus:
HEPA filters are extremely powerful, certified to capture 99.97 percent of particles which are just 0.3 microns in diameter. (Particles that dimension is perfectly suited to maneuver through the filter’s fibers, while larger and smaller particles, due to the numerous ways they move from the air, crash to the structure.)
The novel coronavirus itself is 0.125 microns, but Marr says the droplets it travels in–when folks cough, speak or breathe–originally are bigger around 1 micron. That is a dimension easily recorded by HEPA filters.
Meaning an air purifier needs to be capable of drawing in enough air to decrease the number of virus particles from the atmosphere. The quicker an air purifier can cycle air through the filter, the greater its chances of catching virus particles. You can see how quickly that an air purifier cleans the encircling air by trying to find its CADR (clean air delivery rate) number on the packaging.
So to help stop the spread of this virus in your property, you should clean your house and wash your hands regularly, too.
“We do not yet have direct proof that filtration works to decrease transmission of this novel coronavirus,” states Jeffrey Siegel, an indoor air quality specialist and professor of civil engineering at the University of Toronto who has investigated mobile air purifiers with various airborne particles.
Energy-efficient windows and doors are great at keeping pollutants out of your house, but they also trap in a great deal of terrible stuff.
Pollutants like smoke from tobacco, wood burning, and cooking; gases from cleaning products and construction materials; dust mites; mold; and pet dander all contribute to an unhealthy indoor environment which has ill effects on human health.
Fine particles 10 micrometers in diameter or smaller, such as those located in smoke and dust, are particularly a concern as they can find their way deep into the lungs. Breathing in particles for only hours or days is sufficient to aggravate lungs and cause asthma attacks, and has been associated with heart attacks in people with heart disease. According to the EPA, long-term exposure to elevated particle levels is linked to bronchitis, decreased lung function, and premature death.
Volatile organic chemicals (VOCs), including formaldehyde, which are released into the atmosphere from adhesives, paints, and cleaning products may cause nose, throat, and eye irritation; headaches; nausea; and damage to the liver, kidney, and nervous system.
So by using HEPA air purifiers then you can significantly reduce indoor contaminants and coronavirus.
What should you look for in a HEPA air purifier?
- CADR (clean-air shipping rate) rating: This measures the cleaning rate of the purifier for removing dust, smoke, and pollen. Start looking for a CADR of 300, above 350 is actually great.
- Size tips. For suitable efficacy, you require a model designed to operate in the room dimensions. You should choose a model that is created for an area bigger than the one you are trying to outfit it for if you’d prefer to operate it during a lower, quieter setting.
- AHAM (Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers) Verified mark: AHAM’s criteria are designed to ensure the security, efficacy, and functionality of many home care appliances, such as air purifiers. The standards are intended to offer a common understanding between consumers and manufacturers to make the buying process simpler. While voluntary, the most reputable air purifiers have experienced this certificate program, which regularly provides them their CADR rating and size guidelines.
- Standard HEPA filters are capable of eliminating ultrafine particles (think: dust, dander, pollen, mold, and other common allergens in the house ). The industry standard for this is the unit should have the ability to remove at least 99.97% of particulates measuring 0.3-micron diameter in a laboratory setting. Bear in mind, it’s important to remember that in real-life settings, the true efficacy of these devices will be far less new pollutants are continuously emerging.
- Note that there’s no industry standard for the terms”HEPA-like” or”HEPA-type,” and are largely used as marketing ploys to get consumers to buy the product.
So do HEPA purifiers work for reducing indoor contaminants and coronavirus? Yes, they have the ability to trap a high proportion of those airborne allergen, irritants, and viruses that flow through the filters.
When looking into air purifier reviews, you might find yourself overwhelmed by the amount of information out there. If you have little to no experience with purifiers, or if you do not know a lot of the details about how they work, you might not know where to turn. After all, they all do different work. HEPA, activated carbon, ionic, and UV all come with their own advantages and disadvantages. If you want to make sure that you choose the right one for you, you have to know the details of the types of filters themselves. Knowing their differences will help you immensely.
Filtering the Air within Your Home to Reduce Mold Spores, Dust Mites, Bacteria, and Smells
HEPA is one of the best air purifiers for mold and allergens. It can filter out up to 99.97% of the particles around your home. This includes dust, pollen, mold, and various other microns. It can capture microns at a size as small as .3, which includes many of the most dangerous particles out there. It is a highly effective option that is widely recommended by specialists. The only downsides are that it does not get anything smaller than .3 and it does not get smells.
Activated charcoal is another great option. This type of purifier absorbs well, even filtering out smells. What stays in these filters stays in forever, too. You do not have to worry about anything going back into the air after captured. The only issue is that it is not effective for allergens. If you are looking into air purifiers for allergens, you are better off with HEPA. This is best when you want to focus on smells and other concerns aside from allergens.
Product #1 – LEVOIT Air Purifier
Why I like it
As a pet owner, keeping my house clean was a challenge. The little fur used to stick on faces and pollutes the air. But Levoit Air Purifier managed it well.
The levels of home allergens decreased than before.
It never makes a single sound and quietly cleans the house at 24db.
Its Core 300 filters purify 99.97% of smoke, mold, dust, and pollens giving my home a refreshing feel.
Features
- Genuine Core 300 replacement filters to make sure that it removes almost every kind of particles,-Vortexair Technology to generate a strong airflow for fresh air ventilation.
- Vortexair CADR number 230+m3/h to further enhance the 219 sq. ft. AC 120V/60HZ in the USA and Canada’ located homes.
- H13 true HEPA filters to work with their fine strands that are carbon activated (even thinner than the hair strand) and trap 99.97% of particles even as tiny as 0.3 microns.
How to use it
You can operate it in just three simple steps:
- Levoit Air purifier comes in various colors and sizes, so you need to pick the one that fits your room.
- Set an appropriate location for it because it needs a little space for airflow.
- Check the filters before turning it on and rotate it around the house for better circulation.
Pros
- It is really a size-friendly device as it does not take up large spaces. It is just 14.2 inches tall. Really good at keeping it anywhere!
- H13 True HEPA filters are actually dynamic in cleaning up the air, removing unnecessary carbon, dust, germs, molds, and pollens.
- It is durable as you can run for a longer period and you can also set the timer for your convenience.
Limitation
- Its power supply voltage is AC 120V/ 60Hz that is only suitable for American regions and Canadian houses. It does not provide its facilities internationally.
Product #2 – Coway Mighty Air Purifier
Model: AP-1512HH
Why I like it
As a mother, I need my baby to feel the fresh air and atmosphere at home. So I wanted a room freshener along with standard purifying characteristics that were available in the form of this product.
Furthermore, it lessened the burden of cleaning the house by filtering the incoming dust and germs.
Features
- CADR: Dust 246 / Pollen 240 / Smoke 233 CB. Ft. to cover up large rooms up to the size of 361 SQ. Ft.
- The filtration system has been divided into 4 stages. The pre-filter phase, the deodorization filter, the HEPA phase, and vital ion filtration phase capture tiny particulates (size as small as 0.3 microns), removes dust and carbon pollutants up to 99.7% and removes bad odor and volatile organic components.
- Eco mode to help in automatic functions of cleaning and saving of energy.
- Power consumption indicator that detects the fluctuating power supply.
- It can be used by international users as it doesn’t limit to a specific voltage.
How to use it
The setup procedure of Coway consists of the same steps as every other purifier except for one, which is:
It has a corded electric power source that limits the process of rotation, so you need to keep it near the socket.
- It is highly recommended for those users who smoke or have an acquaintance that smokes and visits frequently. As it is specially designed with secondhand smoke technology that detects smokes in a moment and evacuates it as early as possible.
- It also comes up with particle detecting technology so if you set it on eco mode, it will only be activated when it senses particle accumulation.
Pros
- The one thing that disturbs me is that it doesn’t detect and clear mold and its spores which can be present anywhere in the house.
Limitation
- Also, the Coway brand is not so pocket friendly.
Product #3 – Winix Air Purifier
Model: 5500-2
Why I like it
A crowded household with more than 5 family members and 2 pets was one heck of a job when it comes to cleaning.
Also living in a dusty and hairy place, I started to suffer from acute eczema, so I researched to get the best-suited air purifier for me and it was Winix Air Purifier.
Within 4-5 days, the baby’s runny nose stopped, my eczema started to heal, and using it for the first few days decreased the amount of hair.
Features
This product genuinely gives you comfort with its:
- Pre-filters to immediately wipe out the small particles. These pre-filters are washable and durable.
- Carbon filters to cleanse the air from airborne particles within the house, and make the air more natural and oxygenated by reducing VOCs
- HEPA filters to trap the pet danders, mold spores, and pollutants up to 99.97%
- Air cleaning technology to neutralize the bacteria that are borne indoors with its hydroxyl power and especially kill Influenza A Virus H3N2, E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhimurium.
How to use it
The product is large enough to handle and access it easily. The function buttons are equipped with quality indicators, auto mode, and smart sensors.
- Thus if you want to just have a minimal effect, use its auto mode.
- But place it at a position that it doesn’t touch anything within few inches of its surrounding.
Pros
- Although it is not economical for every buyer, yet It works effectively even in large rooms and with more than 6 people plus cats and dogs.
- The product has a three stage filtration process that nearly cleanses air and mold spores.
- It also has odor control and sprays refreshing odors at times.
Limitation
- It does not have smoke detection and does not work for this.
- Its functionality is only limited to houses without rugs and carpets.
- Furthermore, it says to be PlasmaWare but it still emits out ozone.
Product #4 – Blueair Air Purifier
Model: Blue Pure 411
Why I like it
I suggested this compatible air purifier to one of my friends who did not have any toddler and neither a crowded house. She liked it because of its small size which efficiently cleanses a small. One thing she added he purifier is although featured as chemical sensitive, it is still noticed that sometimes the smell of chemicals is inspected
Features
The product is furnished with:
- Three Filter System to trap, clean, and wipe the airborne pollutant factors out of the house.
- Activated gas filters (Carbon AOC filters) to eliminate the smoke odor, and dorm room smell.
- Quiet operation technology to function 17 – 46 DB.
How to use it
This appliance can easily operate with a single touch button.
- However, if you want to set it according to your need, you can double touch it for fan speed 2 and triple touch for fan speed 3.
- Wash the filters regularly to keep it going.
Pros
- The appliance draws air from 360 dimensions making the air more clear.
- It only uses 1.5 watts and proves to be energy-savvy, but it is only limited to small rooms.
- It can function in any region, not limited to one or two countries.
Limitation
- It does not have special HEPA filters.
Product #5 – The Three Musketeers Air Purifier
Model: III M
Why I like it
III M Air Purifier is pretty much portable and thus, it stays with me whether I am at work or at home providing me a clean environment.
It has desirable coverage and an automated sleep mode due to which I can sleep soundly.
Furthermore, it is ideal for pet lovers who keep them in rooms and baby rooms.
Features
The portable purifier comes up with:
- Three Layered Compound Filters to remove particulate impurities and odor up to 99.98%.
- The most favorable noise unit which can even maintain an atmosphere of a library is 22DB provided with ultra-quiet technology of it.
- he strong motor replenishes the entire room of size about 6~20m² ( CADR 70m³/h) in just 15 minutes.
- It has replaced carbon filters with HEPA because it is more durable and environmentally.
How to use it
Once you receive the air purifier, remove the plastic bag around the HEPA filters.
- Set it into the desired location before turning it on.
- Press the start button for few seconds to set the filter alert system.
- For replacing a filter, turn the bottom counterclockwise to unlock the bar.
Pros
- The air purifier is different from the other 3 stage filtration system because they do not have an interval between these phases. In contrast to III M 3 compound filter takes a step by step initiation of processes while keeping a silent atmosphere.
Limitation
- This may not be pocket friendly for many, but it is worth the purchase.
- The mold-like impurities sometimes are not trapped like others.
Product #6 – Partu HEPA Air Purifier
My partner did not need an inhaler (he is an asthma patient) ever since I have got it. It has thoroughly cleansed the air that is why I just love this one!
Features
The product composed of the following:
- 3 three stage filtration system that consists of a pre-filter, HEPA filter, and carbon activated filters
- A fragrance to make the room smell like a sweet-scented flower
- Effective for 107sq.ft. area
How to use it
- A voltage converter is needed to install it in regions other than the US.
- Make sure there is 120 watts and 0.8 amp current available.
- Set the lockset and start it.
- Replace filters every 4-6 months.
Pros
- Effective for smoke, dust, and allergic spores.
- Removes odor
- Perfect for pet keepers
Limitation
- It does not have a timer
Product #7 – Germ Guardian HEPA Air Purifier
Cleaning dust was a nuisance to me, so I brought this to save my time.
Features
The product has some highlighting features:
- HEPA filters
- Attached sanitizers
- Odor Removal
How to use it
- 1. Just set place it in a suitable place and turn it on.
- Replace HEPA filters every 4-5 months.
Pros
- HEPA filters are perfect for dust removal
Limitation
- It is not effective in clearing up the mess and odor removal
Product #8 – Okaysou Air Purifier
Why I like it
It is one of those air purifiers that are manufactured on a medical basis and instruction.
Features
The air purifier is manufactured in the integration of the following tech:
- Ultra-duo Filtration system
- Air deodorizer
- Odor eliminator
- Turbine motor with 45 vanes
- The larger air inlet area
- Child-lock
- Sleep mode
- Silence boost technology
How to use it
This product works in a congregation with Air conditioners so better fit with AC.
- Its using instructions are simple.
You just need to touch and forget.
Pros
- Ideal for pet dander, smoke, dust, mold spores, and mildews
- Free from harmful gases like ammonia and benzene
Limitation
- Non-fixed filter
Product #9 – Germ Guardian Pluggable Air Purifier
Why I like it
It is super easy to handle and easy to keep it out of children’s reach as it is plugged high up on the walls plus it has a built-in sanitizer.
Features
The highlighting features of this product are:
- Air sanitizer
- Compact design
- UV-C light kills germs and bacteria
- No need of replacing the filter, rather replace the UV-C light bulb once a year
How to use it
The operation instructions are simple and easy-to-do.
The main point is to examine the operating voltage before use that is 120 Volt AC.
Pros
- Custom-designed for small rooms
- Room stays sanitized
Limitation
- Sometimes, the purifier fails to eliminate the odor of litter boxes of pets.
Product #10 – HoneyWall HEPA Allergen Purifier
Model: HPA 100
Why I like it
This is a true HEPA allergen air purifier hence it made my living room free from germs and allergens.
Features
The features of this air purifier are:
- HEPA Allergen remover
- Easy tap controls
- Quiet technology
- Auto-off mode
How to use it
It has an easy tap control system that is correctly labeled so you can start, monitor, and shut it down with ease.
Pros
- Loaded with pre-filters
- Odor detector and eliminator
- Smoke reducer
Limitation
- The odor replacing the system is somewhat slow
Product: 11 – RabbitAir HEPA Air Purifier
Model: Minus A2
Why I like it
The mold spores that were tested to be present in my bedroom’s side table, which caused me eczema and sneezing vanished after replacing my local air purifier with RabbitAir HEPA tech.
Features
The HEPA air purifier actually is a competent mold allergen fighter as it has:
- -Six (6) stages of filtration and purification process that traps almost every micro pathogens and toxins like mold allergens
- Advanced HEPA filtering technique with deodorization and odor removal effects so that those pet litters and stingy socks will not smell in your living room or even cars and large areas up to 700 sq. ft.
How to use it
The latest model of RabbitAir is designed to be tech-expert as:
- It is remote controlled and can be controlled from across the room. Set a preset and you are one touch away from turning it on.
- You can place it on the floor or mount it on the wall as you like to keep it you can.
Pros
- Perfect for clearing spores and pet dander
- Run 3 times longer without regular filter replacement because it can run 12 hours continuously on auto mode.
- HEPA filtration to capture 99% dust and mold allergens
- It is toxin absorbent, germ defender and odor remover
- You can have it in your cars, workplace, and even at home. It is versatile in use
Limitation
- Perfect for large areas
Product #12 – Levoit Home Large Air Purifier
Why I like it
The Levoit HEPA Air purifier is really competent for dust blowback. My house has been the center for dusty air and in the spring season, everyone in the house starts to sneeze like crazy.
Later I got to know that the mold spores have always been in the atmospheric air which caused such sickness. So, I added these HEPA purifiers because it is solely made for relaxing your lungs.
Features
The Levoit Home Large Air Purifier’s Performance pack includes:
- H13 true HEPA Air clean filter
- Smoke and odor eliminator.
- WiFi controlled!! Your Alexa or Google Assistant can now operate your Air Purifier even if you are not at home!
- Smart remote control with auto mode, eco mode, and sleep mode to aid you in every way possible
How to use it
- Place your home large air purifier in living room or bedroom. Then say to Alexa, “Search my devices!”
- When Alexa discovers your new device, name it as you like.
- Tell Alexa to turn it on and you can relax!
Pros
- Ideal for allergic people or people with lungs disorder as it can sweep away those irritating pathogens in first round
Limitation
- Sometimes the filter only lasts less than 2 months.
Product #13 – Toppin Air Purifier
Why I like it
This brand has built-in naturally fitted mold treatment filters and was able to wipe off the mold spores that were mostly present near the window table and my bed’s side table.
These mold spores were getting a serious health matter,
Thus this H11 HEPA filters with carbon activated filter performed the function correctly. With just one to two days of use with interval,
The problems seem to be less effective and my family members were having healthier breathing.
Features
The product is featured with:
- HEPA Filters (these actually prove to be the replacement of air purifiers)
- Multiple Filtration system (HEPA and carbon filters) are specially designed for patients with chronic obstructive lungs disorders
How to use it
- This is really easy to handle as there are 3 designate fan speed and you only need to touch the desired one.
- You can turn on or off the night mode, and UV radiation mode
Pros
- It is economical and you can easily get these in the market.
- Odor and smoke absorbent effective
Limitation
- They cover less area up to 100 sq. ft.
Product #14- Healthomse 3 In 1 Air Purifier
Why I like it
One of my acquaintances used to visit us every week and he was a smoker. So, getting all of the smoke out was a serious matter.
I did not want my baby to have the effect of passive smoking so I searched to find something that can take it out just as soon as he starts to smoke.
I found Healthomse Air Purifiers and that day of the visit, I could not smell of the smoke for more than 3 seconds.
Features
They are not only about HEPA filters, but also:
- They purify the air into three filtration step
- They have true HEPA filters to catch 99.97% of germs and mold allergens that causes mold allergies
How to use it
You do not need to worry they have built-in smart working modes so just button up the one that suits you
Pros
- Traps allergens
- Improve indoor house environment and air quality.
- The process of fitting is really easy
Limitation
Why I like it
Proscenic was bought at that time when the house was going under renovation and the entire house was layered with dust and dirt.
We wanted our house to feel fresh and healthy again and proscenic HEPA Air Purifier promises a natural environment and even proved it!
Features
The Machine is armed with:
- High-quality HEPA filters
- Smart Control. Tell Alexa to keep an eye over it!
- Advanced 4 stages of filtration
- High dust, allergen and mold spores removing efficiency
- Air Sensor to know when your surrounding air needs to be replaced
How to use it
The machine can be operated as:
- Introduce your new device to Alexa or Google Assistant and then just control it smartly through your smartphones!
Pros
- It works as Whole house Air Purifier
- It is fitted with a H13 HEPA filter for eradicating mold allergies
- Your house smells like sweet flowers
Limitation
- The pre-filters do not work properly.
Ionic air purifiers can get the smallest of microns, down to a .1 size. This means that you do not have to worry about particles at all, no matter how big or small they are. This covers more bases than other filtration systems do. If you get this because you are interested in air purifiers for allergens, though, do keep in mind that it is not as good as you might hope. This is because it releases ozone, which can damage your health.
Another one of the best air purifiers for mold is the UV air purifier. This can destroy mold and bacteria, even helping you to stay healthy. It does not keep them in the filtration system like HEPA filters do so you do not have to worry about health risks. The only issue is that UV filtration systems do not capture allergens or smells.
No matter what you read on air purifier reviews, you have to remember that a purifier is no good if you do not change or clean the filter. Following the instructions with the filtration system of your choice, clean or change out the filter on a regular basis. This is an important part of keeping it working and watching out for your health.
The Mold Facts is dedicated to providing you a healthy and safe indoor atmosphere. We are a leading mold inspection company in Los Angeles specializing in air quality testing in Los Angeles and nearby areas including Pasadena, Santa Clarita, Santa Monica, Valencia, Oxnard.
Contact our mold inspection experts at 844-665-3322 to know more.