What's the difference between air cleaners and air purifiers?

When it comes to improving the air quality in your home, you may have come across the terms air cleaners and air purifiers. While these terms are often used interchangeably, there are some key differences between the two that you should be aware of. In this article, I'll explain the main differences between air cleaners and air purifiers, so you can make an informed decision on which one is right for your needs. (source)

Air Cleaners

Air cleaners are devices that remove various contaminants from the air, such as dust, pollen, pet dander, and smoke. They typically use a combination of mechanical filters, like HEPA filters, and electronic technology, such as electrostatic precipitators or ionizers, to capture and remove particles from the air. Some air cleaners also include activated carbon filters to help reduce odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). (source)

One of the main advantages of air cleaners is their ability to remove larger particles from the air, which can be particularly beneficial for allergy sufferers. However, they may not be as effective at removing smaller particles, such as bacteria and viruses, or at eliminating odors and VOCs. (source)

Air Purifiers

Air purifiers, on the other hand, are specifically designed to remove a wider range of contaminants from the air, including smaller particles like bacteria, viruses, and mold spores. They often use a combination of advanced filtration technologies, such as HEPA filters, ultraviolet (UV) germicidal lamps, and photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) technology, to effectively remove these smaller particles and neutralize odors and VOCs. (source)

One of the main benefits of air purifiers is their ability to improve the overall air quality in your home by removing a wider range of contaminants. This can be especially helpful for those with respiratory issues, such as asthma, or for people who are particularly sensitive to allergens and irritants. (source)

Which One is Right for You?

When deciding between an air cleaner and an air purifier, it's important to consider your specific needs and the types of contaminants you want to remove from your indoor environment. If you're primarily concerned with removing larger particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander, an air cleaner may be sufficient for your needs. However, if you're looking to improve the overall air quality in your home by removing a wider range of contaminants, including smaller particles like bacteria and viruses, an air purifier may be a better choice. (source)

In conclusion, while air cleaners and air purifiers both serve to improve indoor air quality, they differ in their capabilities and the types of contaminants they can effectively remove. By understanding these differences, you can make an informed decision on which type of device is best suited for your needs and enjoy cleaner, healthier air in your home. (source)

Gregory Prohaska

technology, air quality, video games, electronics

Gregory is a passionate technology buff with a specific interest in air purifiers. He has an extensive background in assessing various air purifiers and is constantly keeping up with the newest trends in air purification technology. When he's not busy evaluating the latest air purifiers, Gregory can be found indulging in his love for video gaming and experimenting with electronic devices.