This article sponsored by Therapure.™ The
Therapure triple-action purification system
utilizes a permanent HEPA-type filter to
remove allergens and pollutants, including
mold spores, pet hair and dander; a UV
germicidal lamp to help kill bacteria and
germs on contact; and a photo catalyst
filter to remove toxic fumes caused by
household cleaners, paint and carpet.
The importance of
purifying the air
THERE’S LI TTLE DOUBT THAT the air inside houses and offices can contain allergens, pollutants and irritants. Fortunately, modern air purifiers can
help. But you must make sure to get the right one to effectively remedy the
problem. Consider the following information to help you make the right
choice for your health.
One of the most popular purification techniques involves circulating air
through a special filter that traps allergens, pollutants and irritants. These filters, known as HEPA (high efficiency particle arresting) and HEPA-type filters,
can remove 99 percent of all particles as small as 2 microns (a micron is one-millionth of a meter). HEPA-type units now have permanent filters that can be
vacuumed or cleaned. These are highly effective for cleaning the air of dander,
pollen and even the smell of smoke on curtains, carpets and furniture.
If you want to get rid of airborne germs, viruses and bacteria, an air purifier equipped with a lamp that emits ultraviolet (UV) light will kill up to 99. 9
percent of these germs. However, a UV light by itself will not remove particles
or pollution. Look for an air purifier that combines the technology of a UV
light and a HEPA filter.
Many people do not know that indoor pollution also includes household
chemicals, toxic paint fumes and chemical emissions from carpet, paint and
particleboard. An effective way of removing volatile organic compounds from
the air is a photo catalyst filter, which can be found on some air purifiers that
include a UV light.
The size of the room is another factor. Make sure the air purifier is powerful enough to purify the desired space. You may need multiple air purifiers
to clean the air in your entire home.
An investment in an air purifier is an investment in your health and the health
of your family. You don’t drink polluted water; why would you breathe polluted
air? Consider ways to improve the quality of the air in your home and office. A
HELPFUL HO W TO’S
DETERMINING THE SIZE YOU NEED
Most air purifiers are designed for
individual room use rather than for
the whole home.
To determine what size you need,
look for the CADR number. This
number indicates the Clean Air
Delivery Rate, which should always
equal at least two-thirds of the total
square footage of the room. For
example, a 10-by-12-foot room with
a normal ceiling (not cathedral) has
120 square feet and needs a purifier
with a CADR of at least 80.
Clean Air Delivery
Rate (CADR)
RequIiLrLeUmSe TnRtAs TION
Two-thirds the total
square footage
of the room
