Ways Air Purifiers Can Reduce Bacteria And Viruses
The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically raised awareness of the importance of keeping our indoor environments free of harmful pathogens. Because bacteria and viruses spread rapidly through the air in shared spaces, using an air purifier can substantially reduce your risk of contracting a serious illness.
Whether you’re looking for a filtration system for a home, a school, an office, or any other commercial building, it’s important to consider what type is best suited for your needs. Not all air purifiers are created equal.
Mechanical Air Filtration
The best filtration methods involve a mechanical process of physically trapping microscopic particulates in dense fibers. The most effective method is known as HyperHEPA, or High Efficiency Particulate Air, filtration. Utilizing an extremely dense, non-woven microfiber, this advanced technology can filter at least 99.5 percent of airborne particles as small as 0.003 microns, including many varieties of bacteria and viruses. It’s no wonder HyperHEPA filtration is the overwhelming choice for schools and healthcare environments.
The efficacy of a filtration system isn’t just about measuring its short-term performance. You also need to consider how it continues to work efficiently over time. Cumulate Clean Mass, or CCM, measures the number of particulates and the amount of gas that a filtration system can trap before its efficiency rate drops below 50 percent. Long-term efficiency is especially critical in public settings, such as schools, offices and healthcare environments.
Bipolar Ionization
Another method of air filtration utilizes a technology known as bipolar ionization, in which both positive and negative particles are generated in HVAC systems or portable air purifiers. Because this technology is so new, there’s limited research as to its effectiveness or safety. Bipolar ionization can potentially generate harmful by-products, such as ozone.
Because of this, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends the device you use meets the UL 2998 standard certification. The EPA also cautions to never use air purifiers that purposely generate ozone in any occupied space. Ozone in itself does not remove bacteria, viruses or any other biological particles.
Additional Steps to Reduce Pathogens
Even mechanical filtration air purifiers can only reduce airborne viruses and bacteria. Pathogens may still be present on fabrics and hard surfaces. To ensure the greatest protection when using a mechanical filtration air purifier, be sure to:
- Continuously run the air purifier, particularly in high-risk areas, such as bedrooms and closely-shared spaces.
- Keep the space well ventilated but only when the air outdoors is clean.
- Replace the filter when needed. HyperHEPA filters can last as long as four years. However, replace more often when pollution is excessive or when there’s a high concentration of pathogens.
To further reduce the spread of pathogens, be sure to follow other safeguards, such as:
- Avoiding contact with ill or symptomatic individuals.
- Cleaning and disinfecting hard surfaces.
- Washing you hands thoroughly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based sanitizer.
- Covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoiding touching your face.
Contact One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating
We all want to reduce pathogens in our homes. Consider installing an air purifier filtration system. Our professional team at One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating can help you decide what type of system is best for your needs. If you already have an air purifier, it’s important that you keep it well maintained for maximum performance. Our skilled professionals can provide that service, as well.
Do you have a question about air purifying and what method is best suited for your home? Don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with us. Our team of highly-skilled experts will help you choose the type of air filtration system that’s the most effective for you. We’ll promptly meet with you at your convenience. Always remember, we’re on time, or you don’t pay a dime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all air purifiers protect against bacteria and viruses?
No. Air purifiers vary widely in effectiveness. Mechanical filtration systems, especially those using HyperHEPA technology are the most reliable for capturing airborne pathogens. Other methods, like bipolar ionization, have limited research supporting their safety and effectiveness.
What is HyperHEPA filtration?
HyperHEPA is an advanced mechanical filtration method that can capture at least 99.5% of airborne particles as small as 0.003 microns, making it highly effective against many bacteria and viruses. It’s the preferred choice for schools and healthcare settings.
How long do HyperHEPA filters last?
Under normal conditions, HyperHEPA filters can last up to four years. However, you should replace them sooner if pollution levels are high or there’s a significant concentration of pathogens in the environment.
Is an air purifier enough to fully protect me from getting sick?
Not on its own. Air purifiers reduce airborne pathogens, but bacteria and viruses can still live on surfaces and fabrics. Pairing your air purifier with regular handwashing, surface disinfection, and avoiding contact with sick individuals offers the strongest protection.
Are ozone-generating air purifiers safe?
No. The EPA advises against using ozone-generating purifiers in occupied spaces, as ozone can be harmful and does not actually remove biological particles like bacteria or viruses.
